DETROIT – The first Chevrolet Volt
available for retail sale will be offered at public auction with the
proceeds benefitting math and sciences education in the Detroit Public
Schools. The opening bid is $50,000.
“Every aspect of the Volt – from its aerodynamic shape to its battery
chemistry – is a testament to the importance of math and sciences,” said
General Motors GMNorth America President Mark Reuss. “By
encouraging Detroit-area students to pursue these topics, we hope to
cultivate the next generation of engineers who will build upon the Volt’s
innovative technologies.”
Reuss announced the auction during an event at Detroit-Hamtramck
Assembly, where the Volt is assembled. At the event, Reuss announced the
first Volt built during regular production will be retained by Chevrolet in
recognition of the team’s efforts to bring the revolutionary car from
concept to reality. The first Volt bearing the vehicle identification
number ending in BU100002 – will be auctioned with all proceeds benefitting
the Detroit Public Schools Foundation.
The Volt offered in the auction has a Viridian Joule exterior, Light
Neutral interior with dark accents, Premium Trim Package, Rear Camera and
Park Assist Package, and polished wheels. The auction also includes a
240-volt charging station and home installation. The opening bid is
$50,000.
Funds raised through the auction will be donated to the Detroit Public
Schools Foundation to support initiatives such as robotics competitions –
including students’ entry fees, travel costs, and competition-related
equipment.
“One of our primary focus areas is science and math enrichment,” said
Chacona W. Johnson, President & CEO of the foundation. “Knowledge of
science, technology, engineering, and math is critical for the success of
our students in higher education, and in their future careers in the 21st
century workforce.”
The tax-exempt Detroit Public Schools Foundation is dedicated to
supporting Detroit students. In addition to science and math enrichment,
the foundation supports fine and performing arts programs; early childhood
investment; building academic and athletic leadership; and college
preparatory investment.
“An estimated 80 percent of jobs in the next decade are going to
require skills based in math and science. With the support of GM, Detroit
students will be better equipped to make a difference in Detroit, in
Michigan, and in the United States,” said Robert Bobb, Detroit Public
Schools emergency financial manager. “We appreciate General Motors’ support
in developing the next generation of engineers.”
The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle that can operate under a
range of weather climates and driving conditions with little concern of
being stranded by a depleted battery. The Volt has a total driving range of
up to 375 miles, based on EPA estimates. For the first 35 miles, the Volt
can drive gas- and tailpipe-emissions-free using a full charge of
electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s
battery runs low, a gas powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to
extend the driving range another 340 miles on a full tank.
Bids for the first retail Volt will be accepted at BidOnTheVolt.Com
until 6 p.m. on Dec. 14. The winning bid will be announced by Chevrolet on
Dec. 16. The winner’s Volt will be delivered in December.
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