The Chevrolet Volt has been updated with an optional 7.2kW charging system to replace the standard 3.6kW system. Standard on the Premier trim level and optional on the lower LT trim, the new system can charge the range-extended EV’s batteries twice as quickly as before.
The faster charging system makes Level 2 (DC charging at 240V) charging to quickly top up when on the go far more worthwhile. A complete recharge of the 18kWh battery now takes 2.3 hours.
In addition to the new charging system, the Volt benefits from a number of other updates. For those in colder climates who want to minimize fuel consumption, the 2019 Volt enables activation of the automatic engine-assisted heating system to be deferred until much lower temperatures, to -25°C, for more all-electric operation. It also gains two regenerative braking profiles – low and ‘regen on demand’.
The infotainment is updated to Chevrolet’s third generation system, which includes an 8in touchscreen with a new energy app that assesses how efficiently the car is being driven, based on driving style, route, weather conditions and use of convenience features such as climate control. It also now shows the driver how many miles of range are won or lost, rather than the previous numerical score.
Finally, the 2019 Volt gains a number of other features such as a power driver’s seat, improved safety features, adaptive cruise control, wireless charging for phones and a range of new interior and exterior colors.
