This complex system takes into account different running
When the battery is depleted, the range extender engine kicks
whenever in to generate electricity for the motor, as GM noted in its press materials. But when the battery is depleted and the car is running at 70 mph or above, the planetary gearset transmits additional motive force directly from the engine to the wheels.
This complex system takes into account different running conditions to provide the most efficient power to the wheels. But it also takes some of the wind out of GM's sails for the Volt being a real electric car. Rather than a revolutionary automotive powertrain, GM has merely delivered something evolutionary, a hybrid that is closer to the electric car than a Toyota Prius or Ford Fusion Hybrid.
Update: We received a call back from GM to one of our inquiries about the Chevy Volt powertrain. Chevy Volt Vehicle Line Director Tony Posawatz explains that the Volt's 111 kilowatt electric traction motor is always driving the wheels of the car when it is in motion. Through testing, GM found that this motor became
whenever inefficient when spinning at high rpms, with the car running at 70 mph and above. To reduce wasted energy, GM relied on two strategies.
