Green Maus

The Chevrolet Volt has been named the 2011 World Green Car of the Year at the New York International Auto Show.

To be eligible for the 2011 World Green Car award, a vehicle had to be all-new, or substantially revised, in production and introduced for sale or lease to the public in quantities of at least 10 in at least one major market during the period beginning January 1, 2010 and ending May 30th, 2011.

Tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption, and use of a major advanced power plant technology, aimed specifically at increasing the vehicle’s environmental responsibility, were all taken into consideration.

The Chevrolet Volt is the first mass-produced series hybrid/extended range electric vehicle. GM developed it from a concept to market and largely meeting its original performance targets.

The Chevrolet Volt will be available at David Maus Chevrolet in September.

Motors just released recent information from actual Chevrolet Volt owners who have been able to drive for over 1,000 miles before filling up their tanks at the station. The EPA estimate for the Volt electric-only vehicle ranges as a mere 35 miles, drivers can pull another 344 miles from the backup generator for a total range of 379 miles.

There is a change however when in engaging the generator – the Volt is no longer all-electric. The Volt is able to get 40 mpg while running off of its 9.3 gallon fuel tank, making it one of the more fuel-efficient vehicles available in the US.

Chevrolet also announced that for each Chevy purchased, customers will become part of a renewable energy, energy efficient and tree-planting project in local communities across America. The new initiative is estimated to reduce the total carbon emissions from the US by up to 8 million metric tons in the next few years.

More environmental information can be found at www.chevycarbonreduction.com.