How do you change the drive mode on a Chevy Volt?
You change drive modes on a Chevy Volt by using the Drive Mode control on the center console, cycling between electric-only EV mode, battery-preserving Hold mode, and, depending on the model year, Normal and Sport throttle mappings. The currently selected mode is displayed in the instrument cluster.
Where to find the Drive Mode control
The Drive Mode control is located on the center console near the gear shifter. On older Volts you may see a dedicated EV/HOLD switch or a small toggle, while newer or refreshed models feature a clearly labeled Drive Mode button. If you don’t see the control, consult the owner’s manual or contact a dealer for guidance.
The following list summarizes how the Drive Mode control is typically presented across Volt generations and trims.
- EV mode — electric-only operation using the high-voltage battery. Ideal for short trips and city driving to maximize electric range.
- Hold mode — the gasoline engine and generator run to power the car while preserving or charging the battery for later electric use.
- Normal mode — a balanced throttle response and efficiency setting for everyday driving (availability varies by year/trim).
- Sport mode — a more responsive throttle and quicker acceleration (availability varies by year/trim).
Availability of Normal and Sport modes can vary by model year and trim level; some early Volt models emphasize EV and Hold modes with a simpler interface. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for exact mode options and how they appear in the instrument cluster.
What each Drive Mode does
Understanding how each mode affects powertrain behavior helps you choose the right setting for a given trip. The Volt uses its electric motor, gasoline engine, and generator in tandem to optimize efficiency and performance.
- EV mode: The car runs on the battery electric drive until the battery reaches a minimum state of charge, after which the gasoline engine may engage to provide power or recharge the battery as needed.
- Hold mode: The gasoline engine powers the car and can recharge or maintain the battery at a set level, allowing you to reserve battery power for later use (for example, in a city or school zone later).
- Normal mode: Provides a balanced driving experience with moderate throttle response and efficient operation for everyday driving.
- Sport mode: Increases throttle response and sharpened acceleration for quicker, more dynamic driving; this can reduce electric-range efficiency in favor of performance.
As with any GM plug-in hybrid, the exact behavior of these modes can depend on your generation, trim, and remaining battery charge. The instrument cluster will indicate which mode is active at any time.
Step-by-step: how to switch drive modes
Follow these steps to switch drive modes while driving or when stopped, depending on your comfort and safety considerations.
- Start the vehicle and ensure the ignition is on and the driver information cluster is active.
- Locate the Drive Mode control on the center console near the shifter (or the EV/HOLD switch if your model uses that layout).
- Press or rotate the control to cycle through the available modes until the desired setting is displayed on the instrument cluster.
- Wait a moment for the system to confirm the selection; you can continue driving or shift as needed.
- If you want to switch back, repeat the process to select a different mode (EV, Hold, Normal, or Sport, as available).
Tip: If you’re new to the Volt, start with Normal mode for daily driving and switch to EV mode for short city trips to maximize electric use. Use Hold when you want to conserve battery for later use or for longer highway trips.
Model-year variations and tips
Across Volt generations, the exact Drive Mode interface has evolved. Early models primarily used EV and Hold modes, with Normal and Sport sometimes available as part of a broader Drive Mode system. Later refreshes and trims provided a more explicit Drive Mode button with a visible selection for Normal and Sport. In all cases, the active mode is shown on the instrument cluster, and the control is designed to be quick and unobtrusive to use while driving. If in doubt, check the owner’s manual or ask a dealer for your specific VIN’s drive-mode options.
Summary
Changing the drive mode on a Chevy Volt centers on the Drive Mode control located on the center console. You can switch between EV and Hold modes in most models, with Normal and Sport available on newer or higher trims. The mode you select affects how the electric motor and gasoline engine collaborate, influencing electric range, fuel efficiency, and throttle response. Always verify the current mode on the instrument cluster and consult your manual for model-year specifics.
