2016 Chevrolet Volt gets more pure-electric range

Cheverolet says it has given what customers more of what they want of the latest 2016 Volt: range, range and more range.

The Volt’s all-new, second-generation Voltec extended-range electric propulsion system delivers 53 miles/84 kilometres of pure EV range, based on EPA testing. That is nearly a 40-percent improvement over the first-generation Volt.

Chevrolet expects many next-generation Volt owners will use power solely from their batteries for more than 90 percent of trips. Today, Volt owners use battery power on 80 percent of their trips.

This means the average Volt owner could expect to travel well over 1,000 miles/1,600km between gas fill ups, if they charge regularly.

For the first 53 miles, the Volt can drive gas and tailpipe-emissions free using a full charge of electricity stored in its new 18.4-kWh lithium-ion battery, rated at a combined 106 MPGe, or petrol equivalent. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range for a total of 420 miles/670km on a full tank.

“We listened to our customers,” said Andrew Farah, vehicle chief engineer, “They were very clear when they told us that they wanted more range, and a fun driving experience behind the wheel. We are confident that the 2016 Volt delivers both.”

The next-generation Volt’s new 1.5L range-extender, designed to use regular unleaded fuel, offers a combined EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 42mpg/17.85kpl.