Chevy Volt Hits Streets for the First Time in China | Earth and Industry

The Chevy Volt isn't only coming to the North America. Early on, General Motors made the strategic decision to make China one of the initial markets outside the United States to receive the Volt. And earlier this week, GM celebrated the arrival of the first drivable Chevrolet Volt in China.  GM’s long-awaited electric vehicle with extended-range capability will go on sale locally next year.

During the celebration, GM delivered two Chevrolet Volts to the Shanghai Expo Bureau for use as part of its VIP transportation fleet at World Expo 2010 Shanghai. The Volt will shuttle special guests to and from Shanghai’s Expo Park.

“GM has made a long-term commitment to bringing our industry-leading technology to China,” said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. “This is enabling us to provide the best mobility solutions for addressing the transportation challenges associated with the growth in demand for personal mobility."

The Chevy Volt has a total driving range of about 340 miles and is powered by electricity at all times. For up to the first 40 miles, the Volt drives on electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas powered engine seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 300 miles on a full tank. The short electric range for the Volt would make it ideal for short trips around town or shorter commutes (of less than 20 miles each way). The benefit of the range-extension is that the car can skip town without any range anxiety kicking in for the driver.

Like in the U.S., the Volt will be available in China with the OnStar in-vehicle safety, security and communication service.

By by Timothy B. Hurst
on September 2, 2010