(December 14, 2010) DETROIT — The first Chevrolet Volts have left the Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant on Monday destined for initial retail launch markets.  Customers in California, Texas, Washington D.C. and New York could receive the new car in the next few days.

These are the first of an expected 160 vehicles to be shipped this week.

“Today is a historic milestone for Chevrolet,” said Tony DiSalle, Volt marketing director. “We have redefined automotive transportation with the Volt, and soon the first customers will be able to experience gas-free commuting with the freedom to take an extended trip whenever or wherever they want.”

The heart of the Volt is its Voltec electric propulsion system, which combines battery-only electric driving with an efficient, gas-powered engine giving the Volt up to 379 total miles of driving before having to recharge the battery or fill up the small gas tank.

Earlier this year, Chevrolet shipped 15 pre-production Volts to technology enthusiasts and electric vehicle advocates whom were the first consumers to experience the Volt every day under real-world conditions during a 90-day vehicle and charging evaluation program.