| Future cars | Chevrolet Volt |

General Motors has revealed that it's planning to fast-track the development of its Chevrolet Volt plug-in electric car, with a full US release scheduled for 2010. The company is keen to capitalise on the increasing popularity of truly eco-friendly vehicles by beating rival manufacturers to the new marketplace.

First seen in concept form at the 2007 Detroit motor show, the final version of the Volt will use the latest development of GM's E-Flex powertrain, consisting primarily of a lithium-ion battery pack linked up to a petrol or diesel engine for additional power and the recharging of its battery supply.

Crucial to the design of the E-Flex layout is the non-reliance on a specific type of power source to replenish its batteries, so GM intends to introduce the Volt in the US with a conventional petrol engine or a 'flex-fuel' E85-compatable unit, with an ultra-frugal diesel variant finding its way onto European shores a few years later.

Although yet to be proven a financially feasible, mass-production reality, the Volt is also reported to be capable of running on a hydrogen fuel cell, as seen in the Volt concept at the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show.

For now though, GM is concentrating on developing the Volt's electrical drivetrain to run for up to 40 miles on battery power alone, along with a 10-year/150,000 mile lifespan for the battery itself. The American manufacturer claims the Volt will be good for a 100mph top speed when it hits production.

As well as new engine technology, the Volt will use GM's second generation Delta platform, already being tested in the Opel Flextreme MPV and rumoured to underpin the new Saab 9-1. Differing from the original three-door concept, the production version of the Volt will use a five-door/five-seat layout, with the need for greater aero-efficiency also altering the overall look.

The Volt is expected to sell for close to around $40,000 or £20,000 when it hits US dealers, though we doubt that Chevrolet can bring it to Europe for that low a price.

Kyle Molyneux - 4 Apr 2008