It seems like a simple idea to us now, but back in 2007, when then General Motors executive Bob Lutz, revealed the Chevrolet Volt concept, a range-extending EV was a disruptive matter within the automotive realm.
The extended-range EV not only used battery power to travel 40 miles before a gasoline engine would kick in, but it did so relatively seamlessly, landing it a 10Best Engines spot from WardsAuto. Now, in the second-generation, 2016 Chevrolet Volt, Wards has returned to name it one of the most disruptive propulsion systems in some time.
WardsAuto named the second-generation Voltec powertrain system to its 10Best list last year, but it has returned to explain why it earned a coveted spot.
“General Motors has taken what already is the most innovative and disruptive propulsion system in the auto industry and made it lighter, stronger and a lot more fun to drive,” said WardsAuto editor Drew Winter.
“The second-gen Volt is considerably more responsive and torquey,” added editor Bob Gritzinger.
The powertrain (propulsion system?) is merely one piece to create a lighter, more agile Chevrolet Volt, and provides a noticeable difference in driving dynamics. It also offers up 40-percent more pure-electric driving at 53 miles, which has been exceeded on occasion.
The generation-two Voltec hasn’t been around very long, but it’s evident General Motors has a winner on its hands, precisely why it’s mulling the idea of selling the system to other automakers in the future.
Comments
With such a successful powertrain, GM has two Voltec siblings this year (2016): the Hybrid Chevy Malibu (same FWD powertrain but smaller battery), and the Plug-in Hybrid Cadillac CT6 (RWD powertrain with same Volt battery capacity but repackaged). I personally expect GM to convert other models, especially CUVs, SUVs, trucks, larger sedans, and sportscars so the public can enjoy electric transportation and burn less gasoline until the technology can completely eliminate the gas engine.
HCCI engine would be better, but apparently they aren’t ready for that yet. Then it’s actually be rated closer to 50MPG on gas.
A used 1st gen Volt sounds like a great idea though.