Now eligible for $1,500 California rebate, single-occupant HOV-lane access
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Plug-in battery-electric car
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Gas-powered range-extending generator
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35-mile electric range
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Gas-powered range of 300-plus miles
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8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty
What We Like
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Ride quality
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Quiet cabin
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$7,500 federal tax credit
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Charges on 110 or 220 volts
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Remote monitoring with smartphone
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Lowers petroleum use, carbon released
What We Don't
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Limited cargo space
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Requires premium gas
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Rear window wiper needed
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Range varies with temperature, terrain
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Look, feel of touch-sensitive center control panel
The Volt is a car Chevrolet hopes will revolutionize transportation. Unlike conventional hybrids, which drive the wheels with electric or gas power, the Volt is a battery-powered electric car that has a gas-powered range-extending generator onboard to keep the car going if the charge runs out. The Volt is essentially a four-door hatchback family car with two rear seats separated by a console that houses part of the car's long, T-shaped battery pack.