The Chevrolet Volt was one of the most controversial new vehicles of the year, and it wasn't even available in the earlier months of 2011. General Motors expedited the release date of the hybrid car, but sales proved to be weaker than the company hoped,

according to MSNBC's BottomLine. Recent issues surrounding National Highway Traffic Safety Administration testing that resulted in battery fires also put a damper on the car's reputation.

However, Motor Trend saw beyond the slow start and mechanical failings of the vehicle. The Chevy Volt was named the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year for its advanced engineering and alternative fuel technology. In fact, most drivers hardly even use the gasoline engine.

Jay Leno recently spoke out in favor of the compact car, claiming that he has put 11,000 miles on his Volt without once stopping for gas, according to The New York Times. Motor Trend indicates that the average Volt on the road spends about 70.5 percent of its time in electric vehicle mode, not using a single drop of fuel.

Not all vehicles are this efficient, but drivers who want to save money at the pump can do so by getting regular maintenance and repairs. This will ensure that their vehicles are in tip-top condition, and an extended auto warranty can cover the cost of repairs to help motorists save even more.