The first Chevrolet Volt preproduction model came out the gates of the Warren, Michigan, USA plant.

The preproduction Chevrolet Vol model will not only be tested by the American engineers, but also by the European ones, wanting to prepare the model and get the approvals for mass production. According to Andrew Farah, Chevrolet Volt chief engineer, the car’s mass production is closer than ever, respecting the schedule, so at the end of 2011 Chevrolet Volt will also be available on the European markets.

The car is powered by a hybrid system consisting of an electric motor which develops 150 HP and 273 lb-ft of torque and an internal combustion engine with a displacement of 1.4-liters. The autonomy, given that only the electric motor is operated, is about 40 miles. The energy for operating the electric motor is supplied by a lithium-ion battery pack of 16 kWh, located in a T position and can be fully recharged in maximum 3 hours at a 240 V source (or in 8 hours from a 120 V source).

So, it seems that the Chevy Volt is closer to production than ever, and the great thing is that, this time, is not only the Americans that get to enjoy one of Chevrolet’s nice cars. Anyway, it looks like the Volt will be more popular in The States than in Europe, but this will not stop the fans of eco cars on the Old Continent to buy one. Good job Chevrolet!