At the 2007 North American International Auto Show, (open to the public Saturday, January 13th through Sunday, January 21st - details below) General Motors has unveiled the Chevrolet Volt concept sedan.  GM has announced that production work has begun on a new generation of electric vehicles that could eliminate gas stations for Americans who live close to their workplaces.

Built on a platform that GM calls the E-flex System, the Volt is a battery-powered electric car that has a range of 40 city miles after a six-hour charge from a household electrical outlet – which would make it a viable, gas-free daily driver for Americans whose one-way work commute is 20 miles or less. That’s 78 percent of all American workers, according to GM.

The car also has a flex-fuel gasoline engine that extends the range to up to 640 miles. The gas engine does not drive the wheels – instead, it creates electricity that powers the wheels.

The Volt’s sharp-angle body style evokes current Cadillacs. GM says the car proves that “environmentally conscious cars can actually look good, as well."

More about the Chevy Volt (GM website)

ABOUT THE SHOW 

NAIAS, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit is generally regarded as the most important auto show in the United States. The show is traditionally the launching ground for lots of new products and concept vehicles, both domestic and imported.  Since its designation as an international auto show in 1989, the NAIAS has hosted 994 North American and worldwide vehicle introductions. 

WHEN IT'S OPEN 

The 2007 Detroit Auto Show is open to the public Saturday, January 13th through Sunday, January 21st. Hours: January 13th through January 20th: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm (last admission at 9:00 pm) January 21st: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (last admission at 6:00 pm) Early access for handicapped persons: 8:00 am at the Oakland Hall entrance.

Admission: Adults: $12 ($14 Canadian) Senior citizens and children 7-12: $6 ($7 Canadian) Children 6 and under: Free with a paid adult Purchase tickets online

Tickets are now on sale, click here for eTickets.  Senior and Children discount tickets are only available for purchase at the door. 

HOW TO GET THERE 

The Detroit show takes place at the COBO Conference and Exhibition Center, Oen Washington Boulevard in Detroit. COBO is served by the Detroit People Mover, and several park-and-ride facilities are available.

The Detroit People Mover is in full operation, running in a complete loop. The People Mover system will be operating and accepting passengers at all 13 stations, 50 cents per ride. - more information

Read more details about the show here
Latest RV business headlines