GM thinking about extending Volt technology across brands

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt hasn’t even hit the roads yet (and it won’t until late 2010), and GM is already thinking about expanding its Volt E-Flex technology across its onslaught of brands and vehicles. Of course by now you all probably know that the E-Flex technology allows the 5-door Chevy to do 40 miles on a full charge without the use of gasoline. Well, Chevrolet may not be the only brand “plugging-in” in the future.

In an interview with CNNMoney Tony Posawatz, Director of the E-Flex program, said that GM is considering different body styles such as wagons, coupes and small-cars with improved E-Flex use.

“These are some of the alternatives that are being reviewed, even as we speak...
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Brembo - 9/19/2008 11:02:19 AM

+1 Boost

Here is my questions.

Say you take it on a road trip. After the 40 miles, the gas engine kicks in.
Would the gas engine would be able fully charge the electric engine in order for the car run back on the electric again. Or do I have to plug in somewhere to get a full charger?

komododave - 9/19/2008 12:57:38 PM

+2 Boost

I think it would depend on how hard you were running it. If you were drag racing then probably no, but if you were just idling in traffic then I imagine it would eventually charge the battery and shut off. Full charge takes 6 hours on a standard plug and only 3 on a 220v so it might take awhile depending on how many volts the engine produces.

ceric - 9/19/2008 1:53:42 PM

+3 Boost

ICE is not there to drive the Volt. It is there to act as a generator. Therefore, if it generates more electricity than what is being used (say slow moving in traffic for long time), the extra goes into the battery. Then, at some point, the ICE could shut down. This, of course, depends on how GM program the computer.

ceric - 9/19/2008 1:56:23 PM

-2 Boost

GM should really focus on testing Volt very thoroughly to make sure it works well when it comes out. Stop "dreaming about a chicken farm when you only have 1 egg". Make sure a chicken come out of the egg first.

Barrie - 9/19/2008 9:28:43 PM

+1 Boost

Great car with tremendous potential, if you don`t live to far out of town,you could drive to and from work, and then go out for the evening, then plug in to recharge overnight, without using the engine, and if you travel further obviously the engine starts up, I wonder if you can override to run the engine when approaching a town to have a full charge so you can drive in town without running the motor, I hope so, this is what Toyota should have done with the Prius.