How far can a Chevy Volt go on a full tank?
On a full tank and a full battery charge, a Chevy Volt typically travels about 380 miles on older Gen 1 models and around 420 miles on Gen 2 models, though real-world results vary with driving conditions and climate.
The Chevy Volt is a plug-in hybrid that combines an electric driving range with a gasoline backup. This article breaks down the expected distance you can cover on a full tank of gas plus a full charge, and how that distance differs between generations.
Gen 1 (2011–2015): Range profile
The first generation offered a modest all-electric range and a practical gasoline backup, yielding a total range that EPA rated at just under 380 miles on a full tank and charge.
Below is a concise breakdown of the key figures from the era:
- All-electric range: about 35 miles per EPA estimates
- Gasoline range on a full tank after EV use: roughly 344 miles (based on a 9.3-gallon tank and about 37 mpg)
- Total range on a full tank and full charge: about 379 miles
In real-world driving, you’ll typically see ranges in the mid- to high-300s per tank, with variations driven by temperature, terrain, and how aggressively you drive.
Gen 2 (2016–2019): Range profile
The second generation improved the electric-only capability while keeping a similar fuel tank, pushing total range higher on a full tank when the battery is charged.
Key figures for the Gen 2 Volt include:
- All-electric range: about 53 miles per EPA estimates
- Gasoline range on a full tank after EV use: roughly 367–390 miles (based on a 9.3-gallon tank and typical mpg in the high-30s to low-40s)
- Total range on a full tank and full charge: about 420 miles
As with Gen 1, actual numbers depend on driving conditions, climate control usage, and how the vehicle is operated. Real-world results tend to be a bit lower than EPA estimates, especially in cold weather or with heavy HVAC use.
What affects the range on a full tank?
Several factors influence how far a Volt can go on a full tank and charge. The following list highlights the main variables that drivers commonly notice in everyday use:
- Driving style: smoother acceleration and steady speeds maximize efficiency
- Climate control: heating or air conditioning can noticeably reduce electric range
- Temperature: cold weather lowers battery efficiency and overall range
- Terrain and traffic: hills and stop-and-go driving increase energy use
- Battery health and charging habits: a healthier battery maintains better EV range
Understanding these factors helps set realistic expectations for range per full tank in real-world conditions.
Summary
For Gen 1 Volt models, plan for roughly 379 miles per full tank and charge, with about 35 miles of electric range and the remainder from gasoline. For Gen 2 models, EPA estimates sit around 420 miles per full tank and charge, thanks to about 53 miles of electric range and a longer gas-focused segment. In practice, drivers should expect ranges in the 350–420 mile ballpark depending on generation, conditions, and driving habits.
