2016 Volt Gets Larger Gasoline Engine, Better Range

Chevrolet just announced new details about the next-generation Volt.

The upcoming electric car will be powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and will benefit from an all-new Voltec extended range electric vehicle (EREV) propulsion system. According to the American automaker, the new propulsion system was “substantially developed from Volt owners including data collected on their driving behaviors.” The system, which includes the battery, drive unit, range-extending engine and power electronics, will be more efficient and offer more range and better fuel economy compared to the current Volt.

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The 2016 Chevrolet Volt’s two-motor drive unit operates approximately five to 12 percent more efficiently than the current one, while weighing 100 lbs less. In addition, the Traction Power Inverter Module has been directly built into the drive unit to reduce mass, size and build complexity while improving efficiency. Unfortunately, no updated range figures were announced today, but Chevrolet did say that those numbers will come when the vehicle makes its debut at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show.

The company also announced that the new Chevrolet Volt’s electric drive unit will be built in Warren, Mich., meaning most of the Volt’s major powertrain components will be made in the state. Nearly $300 million in capital investments will be made in Michigan between now and the end of the year.

GALLERY: 2016 Chevrolet Volt

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