Electric vehicles Volt launch in Sydney

Previewed in Australia last week, and due in New Zealand late next year, the five-door, four-passenger Volt is designed to provide the benefits of an electric car without the range limitations usually associated with them.

"The Volt is a true game-changer for Holden and the entire industry. It promises to revolutionise the way people view electric vehicles with its world-beating drivetrain, progressive styling and outstanding safety.

"The Volt also signals the start of a new era for Holden as we take a leadership position on technology and sustainable motoring. This is an incredibly exciting vehicle."

The Volt is not a hybrid; instead, like its rival, Nissan’s Leaf, it’s an all electrically driven vehicle. Powered by GM’s revolutionary Voltec propulsion system, it consists of a 16kWh lithium-ion battery pack and electric drive unit that provide a pure electric range of between 60-80km, depending on conditions.

A 1.4-litre petrol-powered engine extends the range by operating the vehicle’s electric drive system until the car can be recharged or refuelled.

This distinguishes Volt from other electric-only vehicles, which cannot be operated when recharging is not immediately available – such as during a power interruption or on a long-distance trip.

The heart of the Holden Volt is its Voltec propulsion system, which combines pure electric drive and an efficient, range-extending engine, giving Volt a total range of more than 500km, depending on conditions.

Volt’s long-life battery consists of a 198.1kg T-shaped, 16kWh lithium-ion battery pack manufactured in Brownstown Township, Michigan.