When the 2011 Chevrolet Volt arrives, the sedan will feature several driver selectable modes that will adjust electric power. These modes include normal, sport, and even a “mountain mode.”
Mountain mode will be specifically intended for steeper inclines. This setting will reserve capacity in the battery to provide extra power when it’s really needed. According to Larry Nitz, GM’s director of hybrid electric power engineering, the setting will ultimately make the Volt user friendly and powerful, while still delivering low to zero emissions.
“If you’re going up the hill, you want that engine to come on sooner,” Nitz suggested, in order to boost efficiency as well as the driving experience.
Powering the Chevrolet Volt is a lithium-ion battery and electric drive unit that can help the vehicle drive 40 miles on electric power alone. The Volt can be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet to recharge. An on-board 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine can also extend the range of Volt to about 300 miles.
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