30/06/2008 23:15. What is it? More details are emerging for the Volt: It will be a small four-passenger, four-door hatchback based on GM's global small-car platform. Its batteries will likely be based on one of two new technologies, lithium nano-phosphate or lithium ion magnesium cells, that aren't prone to thermal runaway (which could result in the batteries and nearby components catching fire). GM says that they can be recharged from any home 110- or 220-volt outlet in eight and 16 hours respectively. GM calls the Volt an "extended-range electric vehicle" rather than a "plug-in hybrid" to distinguish it from vehicles... // Consumer reports