The 2011 Chevrolet Volt represents a direction for GM, and maybe you guessed by the name, one that is focused on electricity. In fact, although technically a hybrid, the Chevy Volt uses only electric power to move the wheels. For trips up to 40 miles, the Volt is powered by electricity stored in its lithium-ion battery. When the battery's energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-powered engine works as a electrical generator to provide power the Volt's electric drive unit.