Why is the Chevy Volt called an extended-range electric vehicle as opposed to simply a hybrid? Because its gasoline engine isn’t used for propulsion; simply to act as a generator to recharge the battery once electricity is depleted. That range anxiety-killing principal continues here in the all-new, 2nd generation 2016 Volt – now with 53 miles of pure electric driving before a drop of gas is combusted. A new 2 motor drive unit saves weight and enables stronger off-the line acceleration providing 294 pound-feet of torque and 149 horsepower. The range extender, or gas engine is new, too; a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder running on regular unleaded, with a 101-horsepower output, rated at 42mpg.
