What is the range of a 2012 Chevy Volt?
The 2012 Chevy Volt delivers about 38 miles of all-electric range per charge, and roughly 379 miles of total range when the gasoline engine is engaged.
For context, the Volt is a plug-in hybrid that combines an electric drivetrain with a small gas engine to extend range. This article explains the official figures for the model year and what they mean for daily driving and longer trips.
Official range figures for the 2012 Volt
The following figures come from EPA estimates used for comparison across plug-in hybrids. They reflect typical performance under standardized testing conditions.
- Electric range: 38 miles (61 km) per full charge.
- Gasoline-only range: about 344 miles (554 km) on a full 9.3-gallon tank, based on EPA combined mpg of about 37 mpg.
- Total driving range: about 379 miles (610 km) when using both power sources.
These figures illustrate how the Volt can cover short daily trips powered by electricity, with gasoline as a backup for longer journeys.
How the range works in practice
Real-world range can vary based on temperature, terrain, driving style, and climate-control use. Battery aging and charging habits also influence electric range over time, while fuel economy in gasoline mode can shift with road conditions and maintenance.
Key range-related specs that shape performance
The Volt’s 9.3-gallon gasoline tank and roughly 37 mpg combined gasoline efficiency yield about 344 miles on gas alone when the battery is depleted, while the electric drive provides about 38 miles per charge. The EPA’s combined figure of about 379 miles represents a typical maximum when both systems are used in sequence.
Summary
The 2012 Chevy Volt offers about 38 miles of all-electric driving per charge and roughly 379 miles of total range when the gasoline engine is used. Real-world results vary, but the vehicle is designed to handle everyday commuting on electricity with gasoline serving as a backup for longer trips.
How much does it cost to replace a Chevy Volt battery?
Replacing a Chevy Volt battery can cost anywhere from $3,000 to over $13,000, depending on the battery type (new, remanufactured, or refurbished), labor costs, and the model year of your Volt. A new battery from a dealer might cost around $9,000 plus labor, while remanufactured options from third-party providers can range from about $4,000 to $9,000, often with different warranty options.
Factors that influence the cost
- New vs. remanufactured/refurbished: A new factory battery is the most expensive option. Remanufactured or refurbished batteries from specialized companies can offer significant savings.
- Labor: The total cost includes professional installation. Some dealers may have high labor quotes, while other specialized shops or independent mechanics may be more affordable.
- Model year: Older Volt models might use older technology, and the cost of the battery pack can vary by model year.
- Warranty: Your original Chevy warranty covers battery replacement for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. If you are out of warranty, you'll be responsible for the full cost.
Cost examples
- New battery: A new battery from a dealer can be around $9,000, plus labor, for a total estimated cost between $11,000 and $13,000.
- Remanufactured battery:
- Greentec Auto offers remanufactured packs for $8,499 with a 36-month warranty or for $3,999 with an 18-month warranty, according to Greentec Auto.
- Refurbished battery: Some sources mention that a refurbished unit from a dealer could cost around $6,000, with total replacement cost potentially between $8,000 and $10,000 with labor.
- Individual module or cell replacement: In some cases, it may be possible to replace just a single module or cell instead of the entire battery pack, which can lower costs. A bad controller module might be a much cheaper fix, costing around $400-$700.
How far will 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.
How many miles per gallon does a 2012 Chevy Volt get?
The 2012 Chevy Volt gets an EPA-estimated 94 mpg-equivalent (mpge) when running on electricity and 37 mpg combined when using the gasoline engine. Its electric-only range is up to 35 miles, and it has a combined city/highway rating of 37 mpg for when the gas engine kicks in after the battery is depleted.
This video provides an overview of the 2012 Chevrolet Volt's features and fuel economy: 49sWeberAutoYouTube · Jun 9, 2012
- Electric-only: 94 mpg-equivalent (mpge)
- Gasoline-only: 37 mpg combined (35 city / 40 highway)
- Electric range: Up to 35 miles
How many miles will a 2012 Chevy Volt last?
The life expectancy for a 2012 Chevy Volt is comparable to an internal combustion engine car, generally ranging from 150,000 to 250,000 miles with good maintenance. Some owners have reported significantly higher mileage, with some reaching over 300,000 or even 400,000 miles, and the car can operate on its gasoline engine even after the battery has degraded. Key factors influencing its longevity include proper maintenance, addressing recalls, and the long-term health of the battery and other components.
Factors influencing life expectancy
- General vehicle life: The overall life of the Volt is similar to a gasoline car, roughly 150,000 to 250,000 miles, provided it receives regular maintenance.
- Battery longevity: The battery is expected to last a long time, often outlasting the gasoline engine. Some 2012 Volts have been reported to reach over 300,000 miles with no battery degradation. The liquid-cooling system helps to preserve battery life.
- Gasoline engine: The gasoline engine's lifespan depends on maintenance and driving habits. Some owners have driven their Volts over 400,000 miles on gasoline alone after the battery has degraded.
- Other components: The Volt has fewer complex parts that typically fail in gasoline cars (like gearboxes or clutches). However, the gasoline engine and its supporting components will still need maintenance.
- Maintenance: Regular and proper maintenance is crucial for longevity. Addressing issues like recalls, coolant system problems, and software glitches will help ensure the car lasts longer.
