A. With a fully charged battery you can go 38 miles^† on the electricity stored in the battery – totally gas-free and tailpipe-emissions-free.

A. On a full electric charge, most people can commute gas-free and tailpipe-emissions-free for about $1.60 of electricity per day^†. The battery combines the power of 288 lithium-ion battery cells. Each cell is about the size of a 5-inch by 7-inch photo frame, less than a quarter-inch thick, and weighs about a pound. The battery monitors the voltage and current of groups of cells.

A. Kinetic energy is the energy of an object in motion. When a vehicle slows or stops, this energy must be dissipated, which is usually accomplished through a conventional braking system, which converts the kinetic energy to heat. But this energy, which is typically lost, can be recaptured in Volt, which instead converts it into electricity, helping make Volt even more efficient to drive.

Here's how it works: Volt accelerates using its electric motor by converting electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy. When you step on the brakes, even slightly, the electric motor reverses this process, converting mechanical energy from the motion of the vehicle back to electric energy into the battery to be reused later.

A. While the published EPA EV range for Volt is an estimated 38 miles, the electric range that customers actually experience may be higher or lower than 38 due to the driver's technique, the terrain, battery age and the outdoor temperature. On a full charge, most customers under moderate conditions will experience an estimated 25 to 55^† miles of EV range. The high range of 55 miles is based on ideal circumstances – conservative driving using no air conditioning in mild outdoor temperatures. The 25-mile range represents a slightly more aggressive driving style using the heater in ECO setting in cold outdoor temperatures of 25 degrees F.

A. There are a few ways to help with the extended range.

• In terms of driving behavior, Volt has an efficiency gauge to help you drive smarter and more efficiently. You can optimize your efficiency by keeping the ball green and in the center of the gauge while you drive.
• Control your cabin temperature settings. You'll get the most EV range with the heat and air conditioning turned off. To aid with this, there are three climate modes to choose from: Fan-only (most efficient), Eco and Comfort.
• When you are done driving, take a look at the screen where Volt rates your driving style and climate settings to see how your last drive was rated for efficiency.

A. The electric range of Volt may be higher or lower than expected due to the driver's technique, the terrain, and/or the outdoor temperature. In other words, driving and braking aggressively, driving in areas with large elevation changes, or driving in extreme outdoor temperatures will impact the electric range capability. While electric-only range may vary based on these factors, the range extender feature is always available for hundreds of miles of additional driving.

A. The EV Range displayed in the vehicle is a projection based on recent driving conditions. It is normal for the displayed value to adjust while the vehicle is driven, as this estimate is constantly being recalculated. Adjustments are based on recent driving history for the vehicle. The displayed EV Range can vary from season to season, week to week, day to day and even drive to drive.

A. Yes, when vehicle power is ON, the engine may start to provide energy for heating and cooling, independent of the vehicle being plugged in or completely charged. Some other conditions that may also cause the engine to start include:

• Propulsion battery charge is low
• Propulsion battery temperature is hot or cold
• Cold ambient temperatures
• Hood is open
• Engine and Fuel Maintenance (occur only if engine has had very limited operation over a long period)
• Operating in Mountain Mode
• Driver has selected Hold mode.

A. In cold temperatures (around 35 degrees Fahrenheit and lower, depending on vehicle settings) the engine may start to help warm the interior cabin, propulsion battery and the electric drive unit. This will occur even if the vehicle was plugged in prior to driving and if the driver has the heater turned off. This is a factory default that can be adjusted in the 2013 Volt.

The vehicle will turn the engine on and off as needed to assist in maintaining temperature. The driver will be alerted of these changes based on a message alert in the Driver Information Cluster. The Volt will stay in EV mode with the engine running purely for heating purposes.

A. "L" position provides more coast-down regenerative braking. When in "L," you can feel the vehicle decelerate more aggressively when you lift your foot off the accelerator pedal. "L" can be useful for maintaining speeds on hilly roads.

A. On a full charge, Volt's initial electric range is an estimated 38 miles^†. After Volt's electric range has been used up, a gas engine works with the electric motor to keep you going for up to 380 miles^† of total range. So whether you want to go crosstown or cross-country, you're free to drive wherever you want, efficiently. And even though Volt plugs into any standard 120V^† household outlet, if you don't have a chance to charge it, all you have to do is fill it up with gas just like you do now with your car.

A. In-vehicle, the Volt displays MPG calculated from the total miles driven divided by the total gallons of gas used. This is how most consumers think about fuel economy today, but it does not match the MPGe figures. The fuel economy on the label provides the efficiency of the Volt using each fuel source, electric and gasoline. It shows that the Volt achieves 98 MPGe for electric only operation, and 37MPG for gasoline only operation. To understand how much electricity and gasoline was used per fully charged battery, please refer to the Volt’s Energy Efficiency screen on the center stack.

A. Current electric vehicles show EPA city and highway efficiency in units of kWh/100 miles. This makes it difficult for consumers to compare energy efficiency with more traditional cars and hybrids that are rated in miles per gallon.
The 2013 Volt label shows that cars will be rated on a miles-per-gallon-equivalent (MPGe) scale, which converts alternative means of propulsion – such as electricity –based on its energy content relative to that of gasoline (for example, 33.7 kWh = 1 gallon of gas). Vehicles that use electricity more efficiently (lower kWh/100 miles) will have a higher MPGe value.

A. On the official vehicle label, fuel economy for Volt is calculated several ways.

1. MPGe (all-electric)
2. MPG (gas only) assumes you never charge Volt
3. Not shown on the label is the combined composite, which is a blend between all-electric driving and gasoline power driving. based on EPA estimates, which is 62MPGe.

A. To use the power grid more efficiently, we recommend recharging Volt when overall energy demand is at its lowest each day. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this is usually from around 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. If you'd like to know whether reduced off-peak electricity rates are offered in your area, contact your local electric company^†.

A. You'll probably spend more money on gas than you need to, but Volt will run just fine.

A. Every Volt comes standard with a 120V^† portable charge cord that can plug into most common household outlets and will fully charge a Volt in about 10-16 hours, depending on selected charging level and outdoor temperature. You can also have a 240V charging station (additional cost plus installation) professionally installed in your home that will reduce the charging time to about four hours.

Upon ordering a new Chevrolet Volt, discuss with your Volt Customer Advisor the benefits of installing a dedicated 240V home charging station. 240V Charging stations provide faster and more consistent charge times.

Chevrolet home charging service provider offers charging stations, installations, permits, inspections, as well as information on special programs and incentives. Visit www.pluginnow.com/go/volt for more information.

A. No, you can plug it into any standard 120V^† household outlet. In the case of a non-dedicated circuit, the current rating of the outlet circuit breaker could be exceeded and cause it to trip or open. It is recommended that you have your preferred outlet inspected by a qualified electrician to ensure it is properly installed with a minimum of 15 amp service for charging the Volt.

A. Using a 120V^† outlet, in about 10 – 16 hours, depending on selected charging level and outdoor temperature, you'll have a fully charged Volt waiting for you, ready to go. You can also install a 240V charging station, which can charge Volt in as little as four hours. In very hot (95° F) or cold temperatures (25° F), charging times and energy usage will increase when using the 120V^† portable cord set. A 240V charging station is strongly recommended for consumers who plan to charge in extreme weather conditions (over 95° F or below 20° F) on a regular basis.

A. You won't have to worry about having enough time to fully charge Volt. A partially charged battery will work until it runs out, then the gas-powered electric generator will seamlessly kick in to provide electricity and extend your range for hundreds of miles.

A. Electricity is an extremely affordable transportation fuel. With a fully charged battery, you can enjoy an EPA-estimated 38 miles of gas-free and tailpipe-emissions-free driving^† for about $1.60 per day^†. That's about the same annual cost as running a common household appliance. To save even more, some utility companies offer lower electricity rates for vehicles charging during off-peak periods^†, such as nighttime.

A. Well before the first Volt was sold, Chevrolet was looking to what will happen to the vehicle's batteries at the end of the EV's life cycle. Used battery cells may help increase the efficiency of the electrical grid in America. GM has signed a memorandum of understanding with ABB Group aimed at developing new projects just for Volt batteries after they've lived out their useful lives in the extended-range EV.

A. The Lithium-ion battery holds its charge efficiently and has no memory effect, which means you don't have to run it down completely before recharging.

A. We strongly recommend that you have the available 240V charging station professionally installed in your home by a certified electrician. Visit pluginnow.com/go/volt for information regarding home charging equipment, installation and special programs.

A. You will need access to a minimum requirement of a 120V/15 amp^† dedicated outlet that is located no more than 15 to 20 feet from your vehicle. Extension cords or adapters should NOT be used. Check with your property manager to see if they can accommodate your request.

A. If you are using power, the battery will deplete, it is just a matter of how much. For example, sitting in traffic without the heat or air conditioning on will cause minimal battery drain. However, using high heat on a cool day or high A/C on a hot day or the defrost function will cause the battery to drain more quickly.

A. A liquid thermal cooling and heating system keeps the battery at a comfortable temperature as it's being charged and discharged. Each battery cell is encased in a polymer- coated aluminum package to withstand harsh climates. It also uses meticulously developed anode, cathode and electrolyte chemistries to improve the battery life under high temperature conditions and a wide range of charge states.

A. Like all batteries, the amount of energy that the high voltage "propulsion" battery can store will decrease with time and miles driven. Depending on use, the battery may degrade as little as 10% to as much as 30% of capacity over the warranty period.

A. Chevy teamed up with LG Chem to design a durable and reliable battery. Each battery cell is encased in a polymer-coated aluminum package to withstand harsh climates. It also uses meticulously developed anode, cathode and electrolyte chemistries to improve the battery life under high temperature conditions and a wide range of charge states. A liquid thermal cooling and heating system keeps the battery at a comfortable temperature, as it's being charged and discharged. The Volt battery is designed for long life and to be reliability. Each battery pack is made up of 288 rectangular cells arranged in a series-parallel configuration. Computer systems monitor the battery cells to make sure everything is working correctly.

A. Here are a few tips to help you maximize the life of your battery:

• It is recommended that the vehicle be plugged-in when ambient temperatures are below 32°F (0°C) and above 90°F (32°C).
• It is preferable to park out of direct sunlight to help stabilize any environmental effects. This is particularly important in very hot climates.
• If long-term unplugged storage is required, store the vehicle with (50%) charge or less and always store it in an environment with temperatures between 15°F (-10°C) and 85°F (30°C). Like any vehicle, the 12V battery may need to be supported during extended periods without driving. See the Owner’s Manual for instructions on how to keep the 12V battery from running down.

A. Chevrolet backs it with a 100,000-mile/8-year Battery and Voltec™ Component Warranty^†. In addition to the battery, the warranty covers the thermal management system, charging system and electric drive components.