Production ready Chevrolet Volt unveiled

After last week a set of official photos of the new Chevrolet Volt leaked on the internet, today, during GM’s 100th anniversary, the Detroit giant released the first official images of the production ready hybrid. “Revealing the production version of the Chevy Volt is a great way to open our second century,” said Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO. “The Volt is symbolic of GM’s strong commitment to the future … just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today’s and tomorrow’s energy and environmental challenges.”

Because aerodynamics play a very important role in this type of vehicles, the Volt’s design changed a lot comparing it to the concept car that was shown at last year’s Detroit show. Changes include the rounded and flush front fascia with tapered corners and closed front grille, rear design graphics with a carefully designed spoiler, outside rearview mirrors and an aggressive rake on the windshield and back glass help reduce turbulence and drag. These plus the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery which can be charged from a standard household 120v outlet or 240v, help the Volt achieve a driving range of up to 40 miles (based on EPA city cycle) without using gasoline or producing emissions.

On the interior the Volt will be available with a variety of interior color, lighting and trim options, modern controls, two informational displays, and a touch-sensitive infotainment center with integrated shifter.

The Volt will be built at GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck plant, and production is scheduled to begin late 2010 for the United States. So, the big question, will the Volt manage to save GM? A lot can happen in two years, but things look good for the Detroit carmaker. What do you think?

Check out more official photos of the production ready Chevrolet Volt after the jump.

Photo Gallery: Chevrolet Volt Production Version

Source: GM