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Everyone knows about the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, GM's plug-in electrified hybrid vehicle. General Motors has been beating the Volt drum steadily since the car was first announced in 2007, frequently updating the world as to what we can expect when this extended range model hits the market in late 2010.

Voltec Technology

The Volt represents the first of what GM has promised will be several models utilizing its lithium-ion technology, with several more models planned in the coming years. GM now calls this technology Voltec in a bid to clarify and streamline mention of its electrification plans. In short, Voltec represents vehicles incorporating li-ion battery technology, with a 40 mile pure electric range and more than 250 miles of additional range thanks to a supplementary 1.4L gas engine.

A concept of a second model, the Cadillac Converj, has already made its way around the auto show circuit, but GM has decided not to go ahead and produce the car. At this point, GM is concentrating on bringing its XTS to the market, a full-sized hybrid sedan slated to replace both the STS and CTS. The Converj, though attractive and well thought out, might also compete with the Cadillac CTS coupe, thus one possible reason why GM decided against producing the car.

New Models

An official decision from GM concerning additional Voltec models will likely follow the Chevy Volt's release, perhaps as early as Winter 2011 when the first Volts have had time to be in customer's hands. There are several places where Voltec would work across GM's four remaining brands, but since GM isn't saying I'm speculating and offering up the following possibilities:

Buick - Cadillac won't see the Converj, but that beautiful coupe could be the basis for the all new Buick Riviera. Buick needs a statement model; what better car to offer up than one that is forward thinking, yet so very attractive?

GMC - GMC is making do with its Terrain and Acadia crossovers, but why not supplement these two models with a third crossover? A Voltec crossover model has long been rumored and GMC is a natural fit. Of course, that means Chevrolet will probably get its own copy as badge engineering between the two brands remains popular.

Cadillac - The Converj is gone, but a compact Cadillac sedan will eventually slot below the CTS. Why not make it a Voltec model and why not develop a well appointed luxury sedan? Don't get me started speculating about a Cadillac Voltec roadster!

When will these new models arrive? Expect that by model year 2015, each GM division to offer Voltec technology. How it looks and whether a minivan or pickup truck might be included in the mix remains to be s