The first fleet of Holden Volts have been revealed to media at a special event today in Sydney, ahead of its market introduction late in 2012.
Federal Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, the Hon. Anthony Albanese MP, the Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore MP and the Ambassador for the United States of America, his Excellency Jeffrey Bleich were handed the keys for the first drive of Holden’s revolutionary vehicle.
An advocate for more sustainable transport in Sydney, Lord Mayor Clover Moore was one of the first members of the public to get behind the wheel today.
“Electric cars are a practical form of transport and are better for the environment,” the Lord Mayor said.
The Holden Volt represents a fundamental change not just for Holden, but for the entire Australian automotive industry.
The world’s first Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV), Volt spells the end of range anxiety for electric vehicles and begins a new era of technological leadership for Holden.
With its cutting-edge drivetrain, Volt is capable of up to 80km of pure electric driving from its lithium-ion battery – allowing the majority of Australians to complete their daily commute without visiting the petrol station.
That means emissions free motoring, a greatly reduced carbon footprint and at approximately $2.50 to fully recharge the Volt, it also means significantly reduced running costs.
Complementing the battery is a 1.4-litre petrol engine that acts as a generator, that when required recharges the Volt’s battery as you drive. With this unique range-extending mode, Volt is capable of more than 500km before recharging or refuelling is needed.
Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mike Devereux said the Holden Volt would be a game changer for Holden and the wider automotive industry in this country.
“Volt is the no compromise electric car. It’s electric when you want it and petrol when you need it,” he said.
“It’s among the most technologically advanced cars on the road anywhere in the world and spearheads Holden’s push to become a leader in technology and sustainable motoring.
“Volt will make driving more economical, more environmentally-friendly and will fundamentally change the way Australia thinks about alternative transport solutions.
“This is the start of something big for Holden and Australia.”
Volt can be recharged easily and seamlessly at any standard household power point, and a full charge takes approximately four hours with the 240V charge station – significantly less than most electric cars currently on the market. If a power socket isn’t convenient, Volt can simply be refueled with petrol and more than 500km of additional range is available.
