2013 Chevrolet Volt Details: New EV-Hold Mode, MyLink, Safety Systems

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2012 Chevrolet Volt

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If you want a 2013 Chevrolet Volt range-extended electric car, searching the web may not get you much.

Chevy hasn't yet put details of next year's Volt model on its website, for instance.

But it did release ordering details to its dealers, and the intrepid sleuths at GM Inside News uncovered them.

While the first model-year 2011 Volt was released as a fully-loaded vehicle for $41,000, the 2012 model came with a lower $39,995 price but a lot less standard equipment.

While we don't have pricing details on the 2013 Volt yet, we do know that it gives buyers more ability to mix and match options above the base vehicle.

The list below includes both technical changes and details of new options and features, based on our reading of the 22-page ordering document.

Here's what you need to know about the 2013 Chevrolet Volt:

• The much-requested charge-sustaining "EV Hold" mode will be fitted to the 2013 Volt in addition to normal, Sport, and Mountain modes
• Volts will now have three possible emission level options: standard, the e-AT-PZEV specifiation that earns the Volt a coveted "green sticker" for single-occupancy HOV lane access in California, and a new AT-PZEV level.
• If the navigation system is ordered, it will include Chevrolet MyLink, the voice and touchscreen infotainment and control system
• Safety Packages come in two levels: Package 1 includes an auto dimming inside rear-view mirror, rear park assist and the rear camera, and Package 2 adds front park assist forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
• Heated seats and steering wheel can now be ordered with cloth interior, not just leather
• Rear-seat passengers may enjoy a new option added for 2013: a center rear armrest.
• The roof and the hatchback will now be painted entirely in body color, rather than black
• There's a new, extra-cost exterior color option: silver topaz

2012 Chevrolet Volt

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With the launch of the 2014 Cadillac ELR range-extended luxury sport coupe coming up next year, we may see more substantial changes to the Chevy Volt for the 2014 model year.

Until then, Volt sales figures will no doubt be watched eagerly by electric-car fans and foes alike.

Which is a good note to end on: The Volt sold better last month than it has in any month since its December 2010 launch, with 2,289 Volts delivered in March.

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