GM finally unveils the Chevrolet Volt

Ever since General Motors first unveiled its plans to produce an extended range electric vehicle at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show, the hype has been tremendous and finally Chevrolet has revealed its production-ready Volt.

The new showroom model was unveiled at GM's 100th anniversary celebrations in Detroit though the first cars won't roll off the production line until late 2010 at the earliest.

Although the Volt bears some resemblance to other current Chevrolets, it's a unique vehicle, utilising a 150bhp electric drive system with a 40-mile emission-free range.

What makes the Volt so special is that it also features a petrol engine that acts solely as a generator of electricity when the lithium-ion batteries' energy is depleted, hence extending the range by several hundred miles.

GM reckons that many commuters would rarely use the generator, as the Volt can be plugged into the mains electricity supply overnight in readiness for the daily drive to work.

"Revealing the production version of the Chevy Volt is a great way to open our second century," said Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO. "The Volt is symbolic of GM's strong commitment to the future ... just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today's and tomorrow's energy and environmental challenges."

It's expected that the Volt will be displayed at the LA Auto Show later this year, with a Vauxhall-badged version a possibility for UK sale by 2011.

Shane O' Donoghue