GM Volt to launch in 7 Canadian cities in 2011

The electric Chevrolet Volt will be rolled out to Canadian dealers in Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Oshawa, Ottawa, Vancouver and Victoria in August 2011.

Dealers in the rest of Canada won't see a Volt in their showrooms until near the end of the 2012 model year, as GM tests the market's acceptance of the new electric car.

"These seven cities represent some of our largest automotive markets in Canada, where customers and major fleet operators are known to be leaders in adopting groundbreaking environmental technologies," said GM Canada president Kevin Williams.

Volt hits U.S. showrooms this month

The Volt was launched in the U.S. earlier this week, though the first cars off the production line won't be in dealer showrooms until later this month.

The U.S. sticker price is around $40,000, though consumer rebates can bring the price down to $33,000. Canadian pricing has not been announced yet.

Hydro-Qubec has already signed a deal to take delivery of 20 Volts when they make their Canadian debut next year. The vehicles will be used by customer service and regional community relations staff.

"We are very pleased with this acquisition as it will enable us to include extended range technology in our portfolio of electric vehicle road tests," said Hydro-Qubec CEO Thierry Vandal.

Hydro-Qubec is also partnering with General Motors and the Corporation des matres lectriciens to support the installation of Level 2 charging stations in Volt owners' homes.

The Volt can be charged with a standard 120-volt outlet, but can be charged much faster using 240 volts, which requires some electrical work.

'The Chevrolet Volt is a game-changer.' Kevin Williams, GM Canada president

The Volt, which was recently named Motor Trend's Car of the Year, can operate on electricity alone for 40 to 80 kilometres. When the battery runs low, a 1.4-litre gas-powered enginelinked to agenerator kicks in to extend the range to 580 kilometres.

"The Chevrolet Volt is a game-changer, offering consumers an electric vehicle without compromise," Williams said.

A prototype of the vehicle has been tested in Kapuskasing, Ont., to ensure the vehicle can operate in cold weather. According to GM, the vehicle has fared well in testing below zero.