The Chevrolet of the future, the plug-in electric Volt sedan, has been a centerpiece in the green movement and in General Motors viability plans. While the auto industry may collectively be in the dumper, cars such as the Volt have great promise for reducing fossil fuel consumption down the road. But, how does it perform? This April 1, we belted in to a production Volt and ran it through an accelerated First Drive evaluation.

The production Volt has evolved from the aggressively styled, couple-like design shown at the 2007 Detroit auto show to a more conventional sedan. In fitting with its premium price, the Volt design has a high-tech appearance, both inside and out. It even comes with a radio that plays AM and FM.

From behind the wheel, the Volt experience is pure electric. On the track, the car accelerates and reaches peak velocity in response to throttle input. The high-tech electrified powertrain provides reliable forward momentum. The automatic transmission shifts all by itself, obviating the need to manipulate a gear-change lever and clutch pedal. We noted that in reverse gear the car backed up under light throttle until an application of the brakes slowed it to a halt.

The front-wheel-drive system does a superb job, focused mainly on motivating the front wheels, while leaving the rear wheels to fend for themselves. However, the brakes slowed the car during braking on both wet and dry pavement, transferring kinetic energy back into the battery pack.

The steering input directs the car, effectively changing course both left and right with equal acumen. When pushed through the corners, the low-rolling-resistance tires (four are included at no extra charge) reach their grip threshold, providing maximum road-holding ability. The ride itself is capable, with the suspension adjusting to the changing road surface and providing damping.

The front and rear doors provide access to the interior, and the seats accommodate passengers reliably. They are supportive enough to sit in and are augmented by seat belts and head restraints. Outward visibility is but a glance away through the front and side windows; the rear window provides an aft view. On the down side, looking to the right rear requires swiveling the head--a motion with some limitations. The gasoline engine uses oil that has been refined, but can be harmful to the environment if not properly disposed of. The electric motor requires no gasoline, resulting in a measurable saving in fuel cost.

Interior trim has both fit and finish. A majority of controls and displays are located in the dashboard area. The glove box held two pairs of work gloves and an assortment of small mittens. A small cubby on the center console proved too small for cubs. The auxiliary 12-volt power socket accommodated accessory plugs. The sun visors could be lowered to partially block sunlight from intruding at the forward edge of the headliner. Rear-seat passengers are positioned immediately behind the driver and front-seat passenger, and they also have a view out through convenient the side windows. The trunk occupies an area immediately aft of the rear seats, and it can hold luggage and other cargo.

Driving with kids: Basically a nuisance, and should be avoided where possible. The lower LATCH attachments for the rear outboard seats easily accommodate padlocks. Overall, a clever plug-in powertrain, creative marketing buzz, and undetermined reliability make this car another choice.

No Foolin’, we look forward to time with an actual production Chevrolet Volt to run it thorough our battery of tests. Its chances of remaining current are positive.