Fuel Efficiency

The combination of an electric vehicle with an onboard generator and hybrid with electric drive creates confusion when estimating the actual EPA.  The Volt is powered by the electric motor and battery pack. After a while, when the batteries run low, the gasoline engine pumps in to extend the range.

Two scenarios come into play when judging the type of vehicle the Volt can be.  If the driver’s commute is longer, driving is more forceful, or if no plug-in option is available, the Volt will have to use its gasoline engine to keep the batteries charged, behaving more like a hybrid.

If the driver has a short commute, takes it easy on the accelerator, and plugs in to recharge the battery during the day, the Volt will operate primarily as an electric vehicle, and the gasoline engine’s role will be greatly reduced.

In this configuration, the Volt can glide through 85 percent of the EPA’s test cycle without even switching over to the gasoline engine. Using the EPA’s standard formula to calculate fuel economy, the Volt averages over 100 mpg.

To get more information on fuel efficiency, fill out the form to the right and we will connect you to a Chevrolet dealer that can further help you. In addition, if you are looking to trade-in your new or used car or truck for a Chevrolet Volt fill out the form and we will make sure you get the best price for your vehicle.