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Is the Chevy Volt electric only?

No, the Chevy Volt is not an electric-only vehicle. It is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that combines an electric motor with a gasoline-powered engine. The Volt can run on electric power alone for a limited range, but also has a gasoline engine that kicks in to extend the vehicle's overall driving range.


Understanding the Chevy Volt's Powertrain


The Chevy Volt is powered by a combination of an electric motor and a gasoline-powered internal combustion engine. The electric motor is the primary source of power, drawing energy from a rechargeable battery pack. This allows the Volt to operate in all-electric mode for a certain distance, typically around 50 miles, before the gasoline engine automatically turns on to generate electricity and extend the vehicle's range.


The Volt's battery can be recharged by plugging the vehicle into an electrical outlet, allowing the driver to maximize the use of electric power and minimize the need for gasoline. Once the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine seamlessly takes over to provide power and recharge the battery, eliminating the "range anxiety" associated with all-electric vehicles.


Benefits of the Chevy Volt's Hybrid Design



  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: The Volt's combination of electric and gasoline power allows it to achieve higher fuel efficiency than a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle, especially for short, daily commutes that can be completed using only electric power.

  • Reduced Emissions: The Volt's electric-only mode produces zero direct emissions, making it a more environmentally-friendly option compared to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles.

  • Increased Driving Range: The gasoline engine extends the Volt's overall driving range, providing the convenience of a traditional vehicle while still offering the benefits of electric power.


In summary, the Chevy Volt is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that combines an electric motor and a gasoline-powered engine to provide a balance of electric and traditional driving capabilities. This design offers improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and increased driving range compared to a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle.

Does the Chevy Volt have a gas engine?


Both the all-electric range and fuel economy ratings are the same for the 2017 model year Volt. The second-generation Volt seats five rather than four, as in the first generation. Second generation Voltec 1.5 L gasoline-powered engine (left) and power inverter on top of the traction electric motor (right).



Can you run a Chevy Volt on gas only?


Yes, the Volt can run on gas only like any other hybrid car (i.e. Prius). However, it is best to plug in when you can so the battery is maintained and conditioned.



How much to replace a Chevy Volt battery?


In the instance when you may need a new battery, you'll want to know the answer to the following question, “How much to replace a Chevy Volt battery?” A new Chevy Volt battery on average costs around $9,000, but this number varies significantly based on factors such as warranty coverage.



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


The Chevy Volt is a hybrid electric plug-in vehicle that is EPA-rated for either 38 or 53 miles of all electric range when new, depending on model year.



What happens when the Chevy Volt runs out of electricity?


With a fully-charged battery pack, it will drive on electric power alone until the charge is depleted, at which point the onboard gasoline engine activates. The gasoline engine serves as a generator, giving the Volt a total range on both gasoline and electric power comparable to a conventional gasoline car or hybrid.



Does the Chevy Volt have gas backup?


The Volt's innovative extended-range electric powertrain, which combined an electric motor with a gasoline engine for backup power, set a new standard for addressing range anxiety concerns while maximizing electric driving.



Can Chevy Volt run without a battery?


What happens when the battery is depleted? Will I be stranded on the side of the road? No, the gasoline engine automatically kicks in to power the generator when the battery reaches a low charge. It wouldn't be nearly as efficient, but it is possible to drive the Chevy Volt without ever charging the battery.



Does the Chevy Volt need to be plugged in?


It's not quite clear what you mean by “only” but basically, yes, the Chevy Volt can run as long and far as you want on gasoline without ever being plugged-in. In that mode it runs as a conventional hybrid, just like a Prius. Running as a gas-hybrid, the Volt will get about 55 MPG city and 39 MPG highway.



Is Chevy Volt an EV or hybrid?


Overview. The Chevrolet Volt remains one of the best plug-in hybrids on the market, with impressive all-electric range and everyday practicality.



What is the life expectancy of a Chevy Volt?


A typical lifespan for the Chevy Volt is 200,000-300,000 miles. Thus, you will hit high mileage for the Chevy Volt around the 200,000-mile point.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.