Source: http://wardsauto.com/engines/gen-ii-chevy-volt-propulsion-system-shockingly-good?NL=WAW-04&Issue=WAW-04_20170830_WAW-04_397&cl=article_1&utm_rid=CPENT000000095975&utm_campaign=13788&utm_medium=email&elq2=5984860415644611946874de08787855 Most observers agree that General Motors missed a prime opportunity after its innovative battery-electric EV1 failed in the marketplace in the late-1990s. After that setback, it jumped right past gasoline-electric parallel hybrids to more expensive “2-mode” hybrids intended primarily for trucks, and much longer-term fuel-cell research while Toyota leapt into the eco void with its Prius hybrid, followed by a variety of others, to become the perceived leader in environmental friendliness. GM’s EV team did build some parallel-hybrid prototypes back then but couldn’t work out a winning business case for production. GM decided the cost of HEVs couldn’t be justified by the projected efficiency gains over much more affordable advanced conventional powertrains. . . . Nice read, a little biased, but entertaining: The Gen II propulsion system features a 1.5L direct-injected Atkinson-cycle I-4 engine, two electric motors, two planetary gearsets, three clutches and the redesigned battery pack, which stores 18.4 kWh vs. the previous-generation’s 17.1 kWh. Its EPA-official EV-only range is 53 miles (85 km), 40% more than the Gen I’s 38 miles (61 km), and its EPA combined fuel economy in range-extending mode is up from 37 mpg (6.4 L/100 km) to 42 mpg (5.6 L/100 km). This morning I drove my 0.6L fuel-injected I-2 engine, 2014 BMW i3-REx with one generator, one motor, and no clutch and an 18 kWh traction battery pack. Its EPA-official EV-only range is 72 miles (115 km), 35% more than the Gen I Volt 53 miles and its combined fuel economy in range-extending mode is 39 MPG, about -7% less than the Volt-II. Mine also has dynamic cruise control, collision avoidance, and was bought used, end-of-lease, for $29.9k. To replace it today would cost ~$23k. I've already driven 19k miles including 2.2k highway miles. Our backup car is a 2017 Prius Prime that got 58 MPG, 34% more than the Volt II, driving 1,200 miles home. My third tank went 2,100 miles using the 25 mile, EV range around town of which about 1/3d of those miles were free electrons from merchants who wanted (and got) my repeat business. Bob Wilson
