General Motors is doing a great job hyping the Chevrolet Volt.
It is expected that the hybrid will look a lot like the original concept but with more aerodynamics, simplified surfaces, a lower roof line, a sealed grille, and a minimized frontal area. Interior will feature an "iPod"-style touch switches on the instrument panel and interior stack.
Top speed is expected to be about 100 mph and a battery range of 40 miles. At that point, the 1.4 liter four-cylinder engine will extend the range by generating more power for the battery.
Oh, and the Volt can go from go from 0 to 60 in about 9.0 seconds. Decent for an SUV, but a no go for enthusiasts. Course, competitor Toyota Prius is not exactly known for its take-off speed either.
It is hoped that GM will be able to show a near complete Volt at a motor show by the end of 2009. For awhile the elements of the Volt were tested in a last gen Chevrolet Malibu. Now it is being done in the much smaller Saturn Astra. So obviously, components had to be simplified and miniaturized to fit into the smaller vehicle.
Our take? Pricing is going to be the big issue.