Intro: Chevrolet has brought a game-changing car to market with the 2012 Volt. The Volt is an extended range electric vehicle, meaning that it can run on electricity for up to 40 miles, and is backed up by an electric generator. The Volt debuted in 2011 in a few select cities. Now for the 2012 model year, the Volt is available in all 50 states.
Performance: The Volt comes equipped with a lithium ion battery pack, sending power to a 150 horsepower electric motor that delivers 273 pound feet of torque to the front wheels. Connect the included power cable, and the Volt will charge overnight, giving the driver 40 miles of pure electric driving. When the battery pack is exhausted, the Volts 1.4-liter gas generator recharges the batteries.
Fuel Economy: The Volt is so revolutionary, that the EPA has had to establish new standards for it and vehicles like it. On battery power only, the Volt gets the equivalent to 93 miles per gallon. When the initial charge has been exhausted and the Volt turns to its gas generator, it gets 37 miles per gallon.
Features: The Volt features an attractive and futuristic 4-passenger interior. The battery pack is fitted below the rear center console, so the Volt has bucket seats front and rear. Up front, the center console is styled much like a modern laptop or music device, and features touch-sensitive controls.
The instrument panel and standard navigation screen are optimized for usability and informing the driver of fuel-economy. The fully digital instrument panel has customizable modes detailing mile per gallon data, and the drivetrain status, while the center screen houses the touch screen navigation system and controls for the standard Bose sound system.
As optional equipment we suggest the rearview camera and the heated front seats for safe and comfortable driving.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, and a full array of front and side impact airbags. A safety feature unique to the Volt is its pedestrian alert system. Because while in electric mode, the Volt makes little or no noise; this system will chirp the horn to alert oncoming pedestrians.
Pricing: Base MSRP for the 2012 Chevrolet Volt is $39,145 in its lone trim. That's over a thousand dollars less than last year's model.
Warranty: The Volt is backed by a transferable 3-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty, and a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: By offering a supremely fuel-efficient car that sacrifices little in the way of comfort, style and everyday usability, the Chevrolet Volt has helped to shape a greener automotive industry.