Chevy Volt Gets Energy-Saving Goodyear Tires and Bose Audio System

Okay, we're pretty sure most of you understand how Goodyear's low rolling resistance "Assurance Fuel Max" tires help maximize the Volt's fuel efficiency, but what's with the 'energy-saving' Bose audio system? A quick read of GM's latest press release on the Volt reveals that the Bose-branded and developed audio system that will be fitted on the production model is 30 percent smaller, 40 percent lighter, and uses 50 percent less energy than conventional Bose sound systems.

GM claims that under certain listening and driving conditions, the energy savings result in increased all-electric drive capability equivalent to removing up to 50 pounds of mass from the Volt.

As for those wondering what kind of savings are achieved with the specific tires, GM said that internal tests showed that these tires will allow for approximately one mile more of electric-only range under certain driving conditions on a fully charged battery when compared to other tires of a similar performance level. We remind you that the Volt is said to achieve up to 40 miles of electric-only range.

"Everything we do with the Volt is about maximizing its mechanical, electrical and thermal efficiency. From the Voltec propulsion system down to individual components such as tires or sound systems, we have been analyzing every part of the Volt so that we can offer a vehicle that is as efficient as possible to maximize the electric range. I think we have achieved this with Bose and Goodyear," said Frank Weber, vehicle line executive, Voltec propulsion system and Chevrolet Volt.