There are few vehicles that have been as enthusiastically anticipated as the 2011 Chevy Volt. With the media buzzing with excitement over GM’s latest green creation, many are wondering if the Volt will indeed live up to the hype. Just over a year remains until the Volt’s proposed release date and there is still speculation regarding the car’s actual performance versus the manufacturer’s claims.  Moreover, Chevy might even release a high-performance version, aptly dubbed Chevy Volt SS.

Hopefully much of that speculation can soon be put to rest as a fleet of eight pre-production Volt models took to the road last week for a series of real world tests. Called “the 65-percent drive,” it is the first of many long-term tests that will take place over the next year.  As you’ve probably guessed, the name of the test means that the Volt is at least 65 percent complete. These tests are performed much like a ship’s shakedown cruise, and will be repeated when the vehicle is 70, 80, 90 and even 100 percent complete.

The main goal this time out is to test the prototype’s Charge Sustaining Mode so they can have a better idea of the production car’s real-world range and mileage. Things seem to be going smoothly for the team of engineers and it looks like the Volt is on track for its November 2010 release.

We did a double-take, as well.  We couldn’t believe it at first, neither, but it’s true–if you live in Colorado.  This could very well qualify as the single biggest incentive, ever. The 2010 Tesla Roadster is arguably the ultimate electric vehicle, a virtual paradox, combining sports-car performance (0-60 in 3.9 sec) with zero emissions.  And now, you can save a whopping 38% off its MSRP.

To learn more about the huge discount, check out the story at Left Lane News. To see other fuel-efficient vehicles that qualify for huge tax credits, check out the Alternative Fuel Income Tax Credits PDF here.