So GM's OnStar division is prepared to offer extra help.
If emergency crews need to cut apart a Volt or other hybrid to release victims pinned inside, there is the potential for severe electric shock.
"They could cut into something that could be very dangerous to them," Grand Blanc Fire Chief Jim Harmes said.
OnStar will remind first responders about that if one of their GM subscribers gets in an accident.
"We're able to alert them, so it's not as if they have to get on scene and then be surprised by what they're encountering," OnStar Public Policy Manager Cathy McCormick said.
"Obviously, we're going to have to do a first walk around the vehicle to see what we have, see what things are available to disconnect and see how we can shut the system down," Harmes said.
This week, GM hosted safety training sessions in Oakland County. First responders worked on Volt models, learning power shutoff procedures and the potential danger lithium-ion batteries pose. Volts are built with higher-strength steel than conventional cars, so cutting them apart at accident scenes will be more difficult.
"There's a chance police may be the first on the scene. This technology OnStar has built into the car to give us the information we need. Is it an electric car? Is there airbag deployment? Is the system shutting down?" state trooper Jim Lang said.
"When they approach the scene, not only are they mentally prepared for how they're going to approach and make the rescue, but they're also alerted, and we hope they recall the training we have given them," McCormick said.
A five-year subscription to OnStar will be included with every new Volt.
