2019 Chevrolet Volt Offers Faster Charging And New Tech Features

Chevrolet announced the 2019MY Volt, which introduces a new charging system that cuts recharging times in half, as well as a range of enhancements aimed at improving the user experience.

The updated Volt comes with a new 7.2 kW charging system, enabling owners to increase the vehicle’s all-electric capabilities as it can achieve a complete recharge in as little as 2.3 hours with a 240-volt outlet.

The new charging system is standard on Volt Premier grade and optional on the LT trim, which gets a 3.6 kW system as standard.

“With about twice the range added during 240V Level 2 charging sessions, the 2019 Volt’s 7.2 kW system makes opportunity charging more worthwhile,” said Jesse Ortega, chief engineer, Chevrolet Electric Vehicles. “It effectively extends the vehicle’s all-electric driving range, while providing about twice the range for the money when plugging in at public facilities that charge by the hour.”

Chevy’s hybrid continues to offer a total driving range of 420 miles (675km) on a full tank, with an EPA-estimated 53 miles all-electric range, thanks to its range-extending electrified powertrain. If charged regularly, the Volt is capable of travelling up to 1,000 miles between gas fill ups.

As before, the powertrain uses a 101hp 1.5-liter petrol engine as a range-extender, offering a combined output of 149hp and 294lb-ft (398Nm) of torque. The lithium-ion battery pack has a 18.4 kWh capacity.

As for the rest of the enhancements, the Volt features new Low and Regen-on-Demand modes that allow increased brake regeneration. The changes are accompanied, according to Chevrolet, by an “improved driving feel with smoother operation when slowing”.

The dashboard now features a new infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen display that has a new Energy app incorporated. This helps drivers by showing how their driving style, route, weather conditions and other parameters may affect the range and conveys the impact more intuitively based on mileage.

The 2019 Chevrolet Volt also comes with a new digital rear-view camera that replaces the old analog one, driver-switchable Adaptive Cruise Control, new decorative patterns for cloth seats, wireless charging for mobile devices, two new exterior color options and more.

Chevrolet with start selling the 2019 Volt this fall, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date.