General Motors Premiere Night took place on Wednesday ahead of the kickoff for the 2016 Busan International Motor Show, and the company used it as a forum to reveal the 2017 Chevrolet Volt in Korea for the first time ever.
The current-generation Volt, which originally made its world premiere in January 2015 and was subsequently released on a limited scale for the 2016 model year, features an improved Voltec propulsion system that results in a GM-estimated 676 km driving range. Interested parties in Korea can expect to go 1,600 km or further on average between trips to the gas station.
The second-gen Voltec EREV propulsion system relies on an 18.4-kWh battery system co-developed with Korea’s own LG Chem that is capable of storing more power despite fewer cells and a 9.8 kg weight reduction. The 2017 Volt’s two-motor drive unit is also projected to be 12% more efficient and 45 kg lighter than the previous generation.
GM also used the event to announced that Chevrolet will be forming partnerships with car-sharing companies in Korea to make consumers more aware of the Volt and the numerous benefits thereof. This includes a sporty new face, standard rear-vision camera, available active safety features including Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Departure Warning, and an 8-inch-diagonal touchscreen with Chevrolet MyLink.
“The all-new Volt is a truly innovative product for today that offers industry-leading driving range, functionality and value for its segment,” said GM Korea President and CEO James Kim. “We expect it to set the new standard for electric vehicles in Korea.”
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.