Chevrolet Previews 2016 Volt at CES Ahead of Detroit Debut
Chevrolet has partially revealed the second-generation Volt at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show, confirming new powertrain details and a redesigned look ahead of its full Detroit launch.
Chevrolet has given the public its first official look at the 2016 Volt, releasing images and initial technical details at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. This partial reveal comes just days before the car's full debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, where the second-generation plug-in hybrid will be presented in full. The new Volt is expected to build on the success of the original, offering improved efficiency, technology, and comfort for drivers seeking a practical alternative to conventional petrol-powered vehicles.
2016 Chevrolet Volt: First Official Preview
Exterior and Design Updates
The images released by Chevrolet show a car that has been completely redesigned but remains recognisable as a Volt. The new front fascia features updated upper and lower grilles and a more modern look for the LED daytime running lights. The exterior also features a slightly sloped roofline, which Chevrolet claims has not compromised rear headroom. These changes give the Volt a sleeker and more contemporary appearance while retaining its distinctive identity in the segment of plug-in hybrids.
Chevrolet states that the redesigned model also benefits from a quieter cabin, with reduced vibration and noise levels compared to the outgoing version. This improvement in interior comfort is aimed at enhancing the overall driving experience, making the Volt more appealing for daily commuting and longer journeys alike.
Technical Improvements: Powertrain and Battery
Under the skin, the 2016 Volt adopts a newly developed two-motor drive system that is 45 kg lighter than the previous generation. This lighter drive system is expected to contribute to improved efficiency and better handling characteristics. The battery pack, developed in partnership with LG Chem, sheds 13 kg and now stores 20 percent more energy. This advancement in battery technology is significant, as it should allow for a longer electric-only driving range, although Chevrolet has not yet released official figures for range or performance.
The new Volt is also equipped with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, replacing the earlier 1.4-litre unit as the range-extender. This engine is expected to provide greater efficiency and improved overall performance, aligning with the vehicle's focus on reducing emissions and running costs. Chevrolet has indicated that these powertrain changes will deliver better acceleration and improved steering, but full technical specifications and performance data are still forthcoming.
- Redesigned two-motor drive system: 45 kg lighter
- Battery pack: 13 kg lighter, 20% more energy storage
- New 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
Battery and Drive System Development
The collaboration with LG Chem on the battery pack is central to the Volt’s evolution. The lighter, more energy-dense battery is expected to extend the car’s electric-only range, though Chevrolet has not yet provided official range figures. The reduced weight in both the battery and drive system should also contribute to greater efficiency and improved handling. These technical improvements are important for maintaining the Volt’s competitiveness in the growing market for plug-in hybrids, where advancements in battery technology and drive systems can have a direct impact on real-world usability and cost of ownership.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
In addition to technical upgrades, Chevrolet has focused on improving the interior environment of the 2016 Volt. The company claims that enhancements to insulation and soundproofing have resulted in a quieter cabin with reduced vibration. Despite the introduction of a more sloped roofline, Chevrolet maintains that rear headroom remains uncompromised, preserving practicality for passengers. These refinements are designed to make the Volt a more comfortable and appealing choice for families and commuters who value both efficiency and everyday usability.
What Comes Next for the Volt
Chevrolet plans to unveil the 2016 Volt in full at the Detroit show on 13 January 2015. More details on pricing, electric range, and final specifications are expected at that time. The upcoming reveal will provide a comprehensive look at how the new Volt compares with its predecessor and how it positions itself in the evolving market for electrified vehicles. Until then, the partial reveal at CES highlights Chevrolet’s commitment to advancing plug-in hybrid technology and meeting the expectations of environmentally conscious drivers.
Comparison with Previous Generation
Compared to the outgoing model, the 2016 Volt brings a number of significant changes. The redesigned exterior, lighter and more efficient powertrain, and upgraded battery technology all point to a vehicle that is more advanced and better suited to the demands of modern drivers. The focus on reducing weight and improving energy storage should translate to better real-world efficiency, while the updated interior aims to provide a more pleasant driving environment.
| Feature | 2015 Volt | 2016 Volt (previewed) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol Engine | 1.4-litre four-cylinder | 1.5-litre four-cylinder |
| Battery Weight | Heavier | 13 kg lighter |
| Battery Energy Storage | Standard | 20% more energy |
| Drive System | Previous two-motor | 45 kg lighter, redesigned |
| Exterior Design | Original | Redesigned, modernised |
| Cabin Comfort | Standard | Reduced noise and vibration |
