GM changes shifter on the production 2011 Chevrolet Volt

2011 Chevrolet Volt Shifter

Probably one of the oddest-looking parts on the 2011 Chevrolet Volt is the awkwardly large shifter knob. When introduced back in 2008, lead interior designer Tim Grieg said that the lack of a transmission gave designers the opportunity to “re-invent the shifter.”

Well, after many critics complained about the shape and size of the shifter, General Motors finally decided to listen and change the design.

“The shifter design has changed a bit during development in order to provide more thumb clearance for the user”s hand,” said director of Voltec design Bob Boniface. “It was something that we, along with our HMI engineers, felt would be the most comfortable solution for the customer,” said Volt vehicle line director Tony Psawzt. “It still looks very modern but it is now a more pleasant experience to use.”

Either way, we’re glad the change was made.

Click here to read our first drive impressions of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt.

Refresher: The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is powered by 16-kWh, “T”-shaped lithium-ion battery that powers the electric drive unit, which allows it to drive 40 miles on battery power alone. According to GM”s preliminary specs, the system puts out 150-hp and a maximum torque of 273 lb-ft, allowing the Volt to go from 0-60 mph in about 9 seconds, hitting a top speed of 100 mph. The battery can be re-charged by plugging into a household outlet and takes less than 3 hours to recharge on 240 volts, and about 8 hours on a standard 120-volt outlet. The Chevrolet Volt also carries a 1.4 4-clyinder engine that allows the five-door, FWD sedan to travel additional miles while averaging a fuel-economy of 50 mpg. A fully charged battery and full tank of gas will allow the Volt to travel 300 miles.

First Drive: 2011 Chevrolet Volt:

All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana ““ egmCarTech.

– By: Omar Rana

Source: GM-Volt