The New 2016 Chevrolet Volt May Zap The Electric Market

Part of the reason electric cars have generated more interest than sales in the US — less than 1 percent overall market share — is because the all or nothing gas or electric proposition is too much of leap for consumers to make en masse.

The newest Chevrolet Volt plug-in electric hybrid with a range extending gas motor takes a “one step back and two steps forward approach” to this dilemma delivering pure electric range of 53 miles … and total range of 420 miles.

The dual function 101 horsepower 1.5 liter 4 cylinder gas powered motor, both recharges the batteries and sends engine power directly to the wheels as it determines the need, like passing acceleration on highways or climbing steep grades.

The first gen Volt had a small gas engine for battery recharging only. Though electric vehicle purists view this as a flawed arrangement, it provides the average consumer a comfort level to drive stronger acceptance.

The Chevrolet brand, an attractive compact 4-door, 5 passenger sedan format and styling, improved ride and handling, upgraded interiors, and the $33,170 price tag are big selling points for the Volt target market.