4,400 Volt Owners Eligible for Free Home Charging Stations

Today Chevrolet announced that when the Volt electric vehicle goes on sale later this year, buyers of the vehicle will be eligible for one of 4,400 free, 240-volt, charging stations, as well as home installation in some cases. This is made possible thanks to grants administered by the Department of Energy.

The Department of Energy plans to install approximately 15,000 240-volt home charge stations across the U.S., and the data collected from the charge stations will be analyzed by the Department of Energy to understand what is required for widespread electric vehicle use.

At the time of purchase, Volt buyers will receive a portable 120-volt charge cord, and will have the option of installing a 240-volt charge station from Chevrolet. Volt buyers that live within the program cities may apply for a free 240-volt home charging station through the ChargePoint America or The EV Project programs if they are willing to share their charging information. More information on eligibility requirements and the application process will be available when the Volt goes on sale later this year.

The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle designed to drive up to 350 miles without stopping to recharge or refuel. For the first 40 miles, Volt is powered by pure electricity, without using gasoline or producing tailpipe emissions. When the Volt's lithium-ion battery is depleted, a gasoline-powered engine/generator operates to extend the driving range another 300 miles.

"Many owners will plug their Volt into a normal 120-volt electrical outlet, charge overnight and drive to work in the morning using only battery power," said Tony DiSalle, Product and Marketing Director for the Chevrolet Volt. "For Volt owners who want to install a faster 240-volt charge station, we expect the Department of Energy project to save $1,000 and $2,000."

For more information on the Chevrolet Volt visit www.chevrolet.com/pages/open/default/future/volt.do