Many of you, like myself, have been constantly seeing commercials with a green background and the numbers 230 appear on the screen, then 8-11. The zero is an odd little power outlet face that turns from an “oh-no!” expression to a smiley face. Interesting, very interesting.

After doing a little research, I read the advertisements are for the new Chevy Volt (General Motors) electric car coined the “Volt.” A very appropriate name if you ask me.

According to General Motors, the “Chevrolet Volt electric car could get 230 mpg in city driving, making it the first American vehicle to achieve triple-digit fuel economy if that figure is confirmed by federal regulators.” This would make the GM Volt four times more fuel efficient than a Toyota Prius and the Volt will be the most eco-friendly car sold in the United States.

Unlike the Prius and other traditional hybrids, the Volt is powered by an electric motor and a battery pack with a 40-mile range. After that, a small internal combustion engine kicks in to generate electricity for a total range of 300 miles. The battery pack can be recharged from a standard home outlet, which is a huge upside.

Since the number of all-electric vehicles in the United States remains relatively low, and most manufacturers like Tesla are quite pricey ($100k+), the new Chevy Volt may bridge the gap and provide an eco-friendly, sustainable electric vehicle for everyday people. A vehicle that does not sacrifice space or luxury, and remains within a comfortable price range for most Americans.