Those who want the redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Volt may not get their hands on the plug-in hybrid. But the good news is that the 2017 Volt has been given an early spring release date.
"Chevrolet has a shortened model year for the 2016 Chevy Volt that will have a limited distribution network," GM spokesman Kevin Kelly told AutoBlog.
Reportedly, the plug-in hybrid will be available in GM's "strongest EREV markets." Per the website, these are: California, Massachusetts, Maryland, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, New York and New Jersey.
Could the shortened run of the 2016 Chevrolet Volt be the result of the glitzy launch of the Toyota Prius 2016 plug-in hybrid at Las Vegas?
"Absolutely not," Chevrolet spokesman Mike Albano told Edmunds.
He revealed that the 2016 Volt's limited availability "has always been the plan."
"This is a strategy used on products like the Chevrolet Trax. Certain markets are targeted first," Albano added.
Instead, the revamped release date schedule is the result of "additional content" to the 2017 Volt which "won't affect range or performance." Per Automotive News, the 2017 model release date is "early this spring" and will be available nationwide.
As InsideEVs noted, the new model year coincides with the plug-in hybrid's engine production moving to a GM facility in Flint, Mich.
The 2016 Chevy Volt, which hit showrooms last week, has so far impressed in early reviews. Many noted how it improves over the original model in key areas such as performance, cabin refinement and design, among others.
Range is also up by nearly 40 percent from the first-gen model. EPA estimates put the 2016 Volt's electric mode range at 53 miles which "is expected to be a major selling point for car shoppers," according to Edmunds.
With a delayed nationwide release date, InsideEVs can't help but think 2016 Chevrolet Volt sales could be affected. Buyers who want to use the federal tax credit may have to wait next year or get another plug-in hybrid altogether.
