The Chevrolet Volt represents one of the most important launches of General Motors' long history. The vehicle represents an important milestone bridging the past (internal combustion engines) and our eventual future (electric propulsion) when it comes to automotive transportation, and has already nabbed "Car of the Year" awards from Automobile and Motor Trend.

GM has announced that the Volt is now shipping to dealerships in select parts of the country – California, New York, Texas, Washington, D.C. – albeit in limited numbers. GM is only expecting to deliver 160 vehicles this week.

"Today is a historic milestone for Chevrolet," remarked Tony DiSalle, Volt marketing director. "We have redefined automotive transportation with the Volt, and soon the first customers will be able to experience gas-free commuting with the freedom to take an extended trip whenever or wherever they want."

In addition to Volts that are heading to dealerships, the very first Volt to roll off the assembly line is currently up for auction. Proceeds from the sale of the vehicle will go to the Detroit Public Schools Foundation -- at this moment, the high bid for the vehicle is a whopping $185,000. The auction ends later today.

The Chevy Volt is powered by 149hp (273 lb-ft torque) electric motor which provides 35 miles of fossil fuel-free driving courtesy of its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. A 1.4-liter gasoline engine kicks in at the point to recharge the battery pack and provide additional power to the front wheels (under certain circumstances). The Volt has a maximum driving range of 375 miles.

When it comes to pricing, the Volt won't come cheap. It is priced at $41,000 before a $7,500 federal tax credit.