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General Motors, celebrating 100 years of its presence, unveiled the much awaited Chevrolet Volt and more importantly a production version was showcased. Even though production is scheduled to begin in late 2010, the anxiety and anticipation surrounding the Volt is one of the main reasons for this unveiling. The first look tells you that it is much different from the concept that was shown at the Detroit Motor Show. This has been done so as to achieve the primary target of the Volt – to reach 65 kilometres without a charge or using other fuel. There was a study conducted to recognise the average distance driven by an American based upon which GM came up with this target. Thus, the designers came up with one of the most aerodynamic designs to complement that target.

The interiors of the Volt is also fitted with cutting edge gadgets such as driver-configurable liquid crystal instrument display and a touch-sensitive infotainment centre with integrated shifter. Then there is the standard seven inch touch screen vehicle information display, touch screen-style climate and infotainment controls, standard Bluetooth for cellular phone and USB/Bluetooth for music streaming and optional navigation system with on-board hard drive for maps and music storage.

The Electric drive in the Volt churns out 150 hp and 370 Nm of torque. The heart and soul of which is the 16 kWh lithium ion battery. The range extenders kicks in when the battery power is low which is automatically done by the on-board thinker, that starts of a gasoline or E85 (ethanol, gasoline combination – widely used in Sweden and fast gaining popularity in the USA and the rest of the world) powered engine generator supplies power to the electric drive while simultaneously charging the lithium ion battery. This cycle enhances the range of the Volt considerably and with a top speed of 100mph, the Volt would be far from sluggish.