How many MPG does a Chevy Volt get?

In short, the Volt’s miles-per-gallon figures depend on whether you’re driving on electricity or gasoline, and on model year. Electric driving is typically around 90–100 MPGe, while gasoline-only efficiency sits in the mid-30s to low-40s mpg, with later generations delivering better numbers and longer electric range.

Understanding MPGe and mpg for the Volt

The Volt is a plug-in hybrid, so EPA ratings separate electricity usage (MPGe) from gasoline fuel economy (mpg). It also reports an electric range, which varies by generation.

EPA efficiency figures by generation

• 2011–2015 Volt (first generation): Electric MPGe ≈ 93 MPGe; gasoline-only mpg ≈ 37 mpg; electric range ≈ 35 miles.


• 2016–2019 Volt (second generation): Electric MPGe ≈ 102 MPGe; gasoline-only mpg ≈ 42 mpg; electric range ≈ 53 miles.

Real-world results vary with charging habits, climate, terrain, and driving style. Your actual mileage will differ from EPA estimates.

Model-year context and what to expect

The Volt line ended production after the 2019 model year. The second-generation model offered meaningful gains in electric range and MPGe, making daily commutes more feasible on electricity if you regularly plug in.

Summary

Overall, the Chevy Volt provides about 90–100 MPGe when running in electric mode and roughly 35–42 mpg when the battery is not charged, with later models offering higher MPGe and longer electric range than early ones.

How many miles can a Chevy Volt go on a full charge?

A Chevy Volt's electric range on a full charge is around 53 miles for newer models (2016-2019), while older models (2011-2015) have an EPA-estimated range of about 38 miles. However, the actual range can vary significantly based on driving conditions, with cold weather, high speeds, and heavy use of the heater or air conditioning potentially reducing the range to as low as 25 miles. 
Factors that affect electric range

• Temperature: Colder weather can significantly reduce range due to battery efficiency and the energy needed for cabin heat. 
• Driving style and speed: Aggressive driving and higher speeds use more energy. Driving at lower, more consistent speeds (20-45 mph) will yield the best efficiency. 
• Climate control: Using the heater or air conditioning consumes a substantial amount of power, which reduces the electric range. 
• Drive mode: Modes like "sport" or "mountain" use more energy, while "normal" is the most efficient. 
• Battery age and condition: Over time, battery capacity can decrease, leading to a lower range than when the car was new. 

Real-world vs. EPA estimates

• EPA estimates are based on standardized tests: The EPA ratings provide a good baseline, but your actual range will differ. 
• For newer Volts (2016-2019): You can expect a range near the EPA's 53 miles if you drive in ideal conditions, but expect it to drop with temperature or speed. 
• For older Volts (2011-2015): The EPA estimate is around 38 miles, and you will see variations based on conditions, with 25-30 miles being a common real-world figure in less-than-ideal circumstances. 

Can a Chevy Volt run on gas only?

Yes, a Chevy Volt can run on gas only after its battery is depleted, but it functions as a series hybrid where the gas engine acts as a generator to power the electric motor. The Volt is designed to be primarily driven on electricity, so running on gas alone is not its intended long-term mode of operation.
 
How it works

• Battery first: The Volt uses its battery power for all-electric driving until the charge is depleted. 
• Gasoline engine activates: Once the battery is low, the gasoline engine turns on automatically to act as a generator, powering the electric motors and keeping the car moving. 
• Continuous driving: This allows for continuous driving without needing to stop and charge, similar to a conventional hybrid, but with a smaller battery. 
• Efficiency: While it can run on gas, the gas engine's primary role is to charge the battery, so the driving experience and efficiency differ from a conventional gasoline car. 

Considerations

• Intended use: The Volt is designed for efficient short-distance electric commutes with a gas backup for longer trips, not for continuous, long-distance gasoline-only driving. 
• Engine lubrication: The gasoline engine will occasionally run even if the battery isn't fully depleted to keep the engine lubricated and ready for use. 
• Fuel economy: The gas-only mode will not have the same high efficiency as the electric mode. 
• Charging is still recommended: It is recommended to charge the vehicle whenever possible to maintain the battery's health and to get the most benefit from the Volt's design. 

Can a Chevy Volt use a Tesla charging station?

Yes, you can charge a Chevy Volt at a Tesla station, but you will need a GM-approved adapter for Superchargers and should only charge at compatible V3 or later Superchargers. Destination chargers are compatible with a J1772 adapter for AC charging, while Superchargers require a NACS DC adapter and can be accessed through the myChevrolet app. Note that older Volts lack DC fast charging capability and will only charge at a slower AC rate. 
For Supercharging (DC Fast Charging)

• What you'll need: A GM-approved NACS DC adapter and the myChevrolet mobile app. 
• Compatibility: Only compatible with V3 or later Superchargers. 
• How to use:
  1. Activate your account: Use the myChevrolet app to activate your access to the Tesla Supercharger network and add a payment method. 
  2. Locate a compatible station: Use the myChevrolet app, Plug Share, or Chargeway to find a compatible V3 or later Supercharger. The Tesla app may also be used with your adapter, but some users have reported issues with their vehicles appearing in the app. 
  3. Park strategically: Park your vehicle so the charging cable can reach, which might mean parking in the space next to or behind the charger. 
  4. Plug in: Connect the NACS DC adapter to the Tesla cable, and then plug the adapter into your Volt's charging port. 
  5. Start charging: Your charging session should begin automatically through the app. You can monitor the progress in the myChevrolet app. 
• Important: The Volt's maximum DC fast-charging rate is much slower than the Supercharger's potential, so the charging will be limited by your vehicle. 

For Destination Charging (AC Level 2)

• What you'll need: A Tesla to J1772 adapter (also known as a Tesla Tap or similar).
• Compatibility: Compatible with Tesla Destination Chargers (the AC charging stations, not Superchargers).
• How to use: Connect the adapter to the Tesla charger and then plug it into your Volt's J1772 port. 

Key considerations for older models

• No DC Fast Charging: The 2015 and earlier Chevy Volt models lack the ability to DC fast charge. They can only charge at AC (Level 1 or 2) speeds, even at a Supercharger with the right adapter. 
• Slower Charging: If you are using a V3 Supercharger with an adapter, your Volt will charge at the maximum AC level 2 speed (around 3.63.63.6 kW) instead of DC fast charging speeds. 
• Use Destination Chargers: It is often more practical to use a Destination Charger with a J1772 adapter for AC charging. 

Can a Chevy Volt last 20 years?

Those who are behind the wheel of the Chevy Volt for work will hit this point in the car's lifespan far before those who only use it every once in a while. You should be able to get nearly two decades out of the machine without enough care. Always consider maintenance when driving your Chevy Volt.