The first-generation Chevrolet Volt (2011–2015) is a range-extended hybrid electric vehicle (EREV) developed by General Motors. It combines an electric motor and a gasoline generator, allowing it to operate both in pure electric mode and using gasoline to recharge the battery.
Main Features:
- Engine Type:
- Electric motor with 111 kW (149 hp).
- Gasoline generator with 1.4 liters (63 kW, 84 hp) to recharge the battery.
- Range:
- In electric mode: approximately 60–80 km (depending on conditions).
- With the gasoline generator: total range of up to 570 km.
- Battery: Lithium-ion, 16 kWh (of which about 10.5 kWh is usable to extend battery life).
- Transmission: Single-speed planetary gear.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive.
- Charging Time: About 4 hours from a 220 V household outlet (using a Level 2 charger).
Other Names:
- In Europe, the model was sold as the Opel Ampera (with slight design changes).
- In the UK and some other countries, it was also offered as the Vauxhall Ampera.
- Holden Volt in Australia and New Zealand.
- Buick Velite 5 in China.
Bumper Material (may vary):
- Thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, labeled <TEO>.
Tools Needed:
- 7 mm socket with a ratchet.
- Flathead screwdriver.
- Trim removal tool for clips.
- Torx-15 bit.
How to Remove the Front Bumper:
- Open the hood.
- Under the hood, remove ten clips (inserted from top to bottom) and take off the plastic cover above the radiator grille.
- Under the cover, unscrew four TORX T-15 screws and remove two clips securing the top side of the front bumper.
- On the underside, unscrew ten 7 mm bolts and remove four clips.
- Turn the steering wheel alternately to the left and right.
- In the wheel arches, unscrew four T-15 screws on each side, securing the fender liners.
- Release the clips in the fenders, grab a corner, and pull toward yourself.
- With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward. Be careful with the wires.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors for the fog lights.
- The bumper is removed. Installation is done in reverse order.
How to Remove the Rear Bumper:
- Open the trunk.
- On the edges of the trunk opening, unscrew two screws.
- Under the vehicle, unscrew two Torx screws and five 7 mm bolts.
- In the rear wheel arches, unscrew four screws on each side, securing the rear parts of the fender liners.
- Release the clips in the fenders. Grab a corner and pull toward yourself.
- Release the clips under the taillights. If they don’t give, remove the taillights.
- Release the clips in the trunk opening. Simply pull toward yourself.
- With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward. Be careful not to damage the wires.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors.
- Installation is done in reverse order.
Interesting Facts:
- Pioneer in Its Class: The Chevrolet Volt was one of the first mass-produced range-extended hybrid vehicles, offering significant electric-only range.
- Voltec Technology: The car uses patented Voltec technology, which efficiently combines the electric motor and gasoline generator.
- Efficiency: The Volt was one of the most efficient vehicles of its time, with an equivalent fuel consumption of about 2.4 l/100 km (in mixed mode).
- Awards: The model received numerous awards, including "Car of the Year" in North America (2011) and "Green Car of the Year" (2011).
- Design: The Volt featured an aerodynamic design that reduced air resistance and increased range.
- Eco-Friendliness: Volt owners could significantly reduce CO2 emissions, especially if they used the car primarily in electric mode.
- Software: The Volt was equipped with advanced monitoring systems that allowed the driver to track battery charge level, energy consumption, and other parameters.
Advantages:
- Ability to drive in pure electric mode for short trips.
- No "range anxiety" thanks to the gasoline generator.
- Low maintenance costs.
Disadvantages:
- Limited rear passenger space due to the battery.
- High initial cost compared to traditional vehicles.