What is the Volt?
What happens if I run out of electricity?
When the battery charge gets low the gas engine turns on and spins a generator to recharge it. Under severe circumstances it’s possible to deplete the battery faster than it can be recharged. The car will still run, but it will use reduced power to let the generator catch up.
How much space does it have?
The Volt is a little wider than its platform-mate, the new Cruze. The Volt’s battery is in a tunnel between the seats; this location allows the rear seats to be folded down for more cargo space, an uncommon feature in hybrids.
What kind of fuel economy does it get? How long does it take to charge?
On short trips with a fully charged battery the Volt uses no gas. How long the car can be driven like this depends on your driving conditions: GM reports anywhere from 25-50 miles with most early reviewers getting around 35. Once the engine has to switch on it should get around 35-40 mpg.
Charging the battery takes up to ten hours using a household 110v outlet or four hours when connected to the 240v charging station.
How much does it cost?
This is a tricky question. The Volt lists for $41,000, but the first 200,000 plug-in hybrids sold will qualify for a $7,500 federal tax rebate. Some states offer additional rebates. As with any hot new car there will surely be some dealer markup.
Price for the charging station is $495 plus installation costs. Due to the demand the car puts on a home electrical system these installation costs can be as high as $2,000 when wiring improvements are factored in. Again, some states offer rebate programs for installation.
Why should I buy a Volt?
If the length of your regular commute is within the Volt’s battery range you may not need to visit a gas pump for months. It also offers plenty of usable space and its new technology is sure to make it a hot car for the next couple years. Federal and state rebates may bring the price closer in line with other hybrids although dealer markup will be high.
