Chevrolet Volt

History and characteristics of the model

According to the idea of ​​its creators, the Volt was supposed to repeat the success of the Toyota Prius and become a product comparable to Apple's iPod. The initial idea was to develop an all-electric vehicle, but GM eventually decided that using a battery and a small diesel engine as a generator would solve the problems of expensive batteries, range concerns and the lack of public charging infrastructure.

The Chevrolet Volt moves on electric traction until the charge of its batteries drops to 30% (or 45% in a special mountain mode), after which the recharging process begins. In the first generation, that distance was about 65 km, or 40 miles, because that's how far, according to surveys, the average driver in the US travels in a day. When the batteries are discharged, the internal combustion engine starts charging them. In addition, regenerative charging is carried out for each braking, and at high speed, on the contrary, the internal combustion engine can be connected to help the electric motor.

The first generation is equipped with a 1.4-liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 74 hp, an electric motor with a capacity of 149 hp. and a battery with a capacity of 16–17 kWh, depending on the configuration, the combined fuel consumption is 3.8 l/100 km. The second generation, which appeared in 2016, received two electric motors with a combined power of 149 hp, an 18.4 kWh battery, which allows you to move on electricity for 80 km, and a 1.5-liter internal combustion engine, capable of running on various fuels — both gasoline and ethanol — with a capacity of 101 hp.

Why buying a Chevrolet Volt is a good idea

Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) are an excellent option for combining the economy and environmental friendliness of an electric car with the autonomy of a conventional car. For short trips for Chevrolet Volt owners, the price per kilometer does not depend on the price at gas stations, but on the domestic electricity tariff. In addition, the presence of two types of power plants has a positive effect on the dynamics of the car - if there is a need for instant acceleration or high-speed movement, the hybrid can simultaneously run on electricity and gasoline.

All these qualities make such cars a very profitable investment for drivers in our country. Used Chevrolet Volts are popular among those who appreciate economy, style and quality of a reliable manufacturer from among the world's leading car concerns.