2011 Chevrolet Volt

Despite what may have been the most public development process in the auto industry's history, there's still lots of misinformation about the Chevrolet Volt. The extended-range electric vehicle has undergone innumerable tweaks for aerodynamics, manufacturing and reliability since it stole the auto show as a concept car in 2007, but the sleek four-door on Chevrolet's stand is identical to the cars that will roll off the assembly line this year.

Here are a few key facts to remember as you admire the production version at the auto show:

• There's no need to stop and recharge if you travel beyond the 40-mile range of the Volt's batteries. An onboard generator starts automatically to provide more electricity.

• The Volt will be built at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant, formerly home to Cadillac and Buick large cars.