Via Motors will debut, with an introduction by Bob Lutz, former GM vice president, the Via eREV, an electric-powered full-size pickup truck, 4×4 SUV and cargo van at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Jan. 10.
The powertrain in the new Via eREV (Extended-Range Electric Vehicle) will work similarly to the Chevy Volt. Lithium-ion batteries power the wheels for a full electric range of around 40 miles.
When batteries are low, a small onboard gas engine will provide extended-range capability for the batteries, up to 400 miles using the onboard generator, averaging up to 100 mpg.
The system can be charged from either a 120-volt household outlet or from a more powerful (and quicker) 240-volt charging station. In addition, each Via vehicle will be able to generate 15 kilowatts of mobile power (at either 120 or 240 volts AC) for the home, work or emergency services.
Via has began taking fleet sales orders only but will also at a yet-to-be determined date, offer the new vehicles to consumers via dealerships.
The new line joins only a handful of currently available alternative fuel trucks/vans: GMC Sierra Hybird, Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, Chevrolet Silverado E85 and the Ford Transit Connect Electric.
For more information on the new via, visit: www.viamotors.com.
Article Last Updated: December 26, 2011.
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A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004.
In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida.
An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.