Chevy Volt to get 230-mpg rating for city fuel economy, General Motors says

General Motors expects that the Chevy Volt will get an EPA city fuel-economy rating of 230 mpg, and a combined fuel economy rating of triple digits, CEO Fritz Henderson said Tuesday.

The ratings will be based on a new test that the EPA is developing for plug-in electric hybrids. The highway and combined figures were not announced. The Volt is expected to travel 40 miles on electric power before a generator kicks in to extend the range to more than 300 miles.

"The Volt is becoming very real, very fast," Henderson said with emphasis Tuesday morning at an event to showcase GM's new products.

Henderson estimates it could cost as little as 40 cents to fully recharge the Volt.

"A car that can achieve triple digit fuel efficiency can and will be a game-changer for us," he said.

The price of the Volt has not been announced, but it is expected to be around $40,000. Henderson said a possible $7,500 tax break could make it more affordable for many buyers.

He did admit there are still hurdles for the car--namely--recharging it in urban areas where street parking is common.

Henderson also said that GM is developing a new small Cadillac sedan that will be positioned below the CTS. He did not say when the new Cadillac would go on sale. Rear-wheel and all-wheel drive will be features. Henderson confirmed that the CTS coupe and a high-performance V version will go on sale this year.

GM
GM CEO Fritz Henderson announces that the Chevy Volt will get 230 mpg in city driving.

The Volt and new Cadillacs are part of a product blitz of 25 new vehicles GM is launching through 2011.

By Dale Jewett