Chevrolet Volt Production Launches at Detroit-Hamtramck
General Motors begins full-scale production of the Chevrolet Volt today at its Detroit-Hamtramck plant, with a live video stream marking the milestone for the extended-range hybrid.
General Motors has started production of the Chevrolet Volt today at its Detroit-Hamtramck plant, marking a major step for the company's extended-range hybrid programme. The launch event is being streamed live, with GM CEO Daniel Akerson and local officials in attendance as the first customer cars begin rolling off the line.
The Volt enters production after nearly four years of development and high-profile previews. GM is using the occasion to highlight its investment in electrification, with the Volt positioned as a bridge between conventional petrol cars and fully electric vehicles. The car features a lithium-ion battery pack and an onboard petrol engine that acts as a generator, allowing drivers to travel up to 40 miles on battery power before the engine starts to maintain charge.
EPA rating and price confirmed
The US Environmental Protection Agency has published official figures for the Volt, awarding it a combined composite rating of 60 miles per gallon. This places the Volt above the Toyota Prius, which is rated at 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. The Volt’s electric-only range and its ability to run as a petrol hybrid once the battery is depleted have been key selling points in GM’s marketing.
GM has set the Volt’s initial retail price just under $41,000 before incentives. US buyers are eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, which brings the effective price down to around $33,500 in launch markets. The company is limiting early availability to seven regions, including Michigan, as it ramps up production and monitors demand. The Volt’s pricing and tax credit position it as a premium alternative to conventional hybrids and a rival to early electric models such as the Nissan Leaf.
Production and rollout plans
The Detroit-Hamtramck plant, which also builds other GM models, has been retooled to accommodate Volt production. The company has not disclosed precise production targets for the first year but is focusing on a controlled rollout. GM executives at the event are expected to discuss future expansion plans and provide updates on battery supply and dealer training.
- GM CEO Daniel Akerson attends the launch event.
- Live video stream includes pre-show and official ceremony.
- Initial Volt deliveries restricted to select US markets.
- Federal tax incentives apply for early buyers.
The Volt’s launch comes as manufacturers across the industry are investing in electrified vehicles and new production lines. Similar moves have been seen from rivals such as Nissan, which is ramping up Leaf output, and Toyota, which continues to expand its hybrid range. GM’s approach with the Volt differs by offering electric-only driving with the reassurance of a petrol generator for longer trips.
For more on how manufacturers are managing production launches for new models, see our coverage of Chevrolet Restarts Volt Production in Detroit After Inventory Pauseand Audi begins production of third-generation TT in Hungary.
