Journal 8, June 14

http://www.technologyreview.com/energy/22794/

GM has just unveiled the prototype for its electric plug-in car, the Volt. GM, who plans to release the car in late 2010 is allowing analysts to actually drive test models for its release. Although the test models do not have the final shape or chassis of the Volt, they are designed to show off the electric generator build into the car. The Volt’s electric generator is one of a kind in that it is the only electric technology in car that fully powers the wheels of the car. For the first 40 miles or so, the car is run soley on the battery. After this, bio-ethanol kicks in a works with the generator to help the gasoline run in the car more efficiently.
The main difference with a fully-powered electric drive is the fact that it accelerates faster than a normal gas electric drive. This is because with an electric propulsion system, the energy is received right away and therefore makes the car go faster quicker. Also, engineers have included features in conventional cars such as the vehicle creep and slow-ride acceleration. These driving features typically seen in conventional cars have to be specially programmed into the hybrid because if the way the electric battery reacts to acceleration.
The Volt also claims to have more power than the Toyota Prius and will be less expensive than the current all-electric hybrid sold in the U. S. right now, the Tesla. Currently the Tesla is sold for close to $100,000 where the Volt will be sold for $40,000.
The Volt was also given Green Car Journal’s Green Car Vision Award in 2009 for its true innovation and economic and sustainable contribution to the green car market. It is exciting to see American car companies finally get on board and beginning to recognize the importance of creating sustainable product offerings for consumers.

Sources:
http://www.greencar.com/articles/innovative-chevy-volt-wins-2009-green-car-vision-award.php

http://www.chevrolet.com/experience/fuel-solutions/electric