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Chevrolet Volt
Chevrolet Volt
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Chevrolet Volt
2012 Chevrolet Volt
Overview
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
ProductionNovember 2010 – February 2019
Model years2011–2019
DesignerJelani Aliyu
Body and chassis
ClassCompact car (C)
Body style5-door liftback
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel drive

The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle car that was manufactured by General Motors, and also marketed in rebadged variants as the Holden Volt in Australia and New Zealand and the Buick Velite 5 in China, and with a different fascia as the Vauxhall Ampera in the United Kingdom and as the Opel Ampera in the remainder of Europe. Volt production ended in February 2019. While similar in some ways to hybrid vehicles, the Chevy Volt is an electric car with an onboard gasoline generator.

Sales of the first-generation Volt began in the United States in mid-December 2010, followed by some European countries and other international markets in 2011. Global combined Volt/Ampera-family sales totaled about 177,000 units by the end of October 2018. The U.S. was the leading market, with 157,054 Volts delivered through the end of 2019, followed by Canada with 16,653 Volts sold through September 2018. Just over 10,000 Opel/Vauxhall Ampera cars had been sold in Europe as of June 2016. Until December 2018, the Volt/Ampera family of vehicles was the world's bestselling plug-in hybrid vehicle. When it was discontinued, the Chevrolet Volt was still listed as the top-selling plug-in hybrid in the American market.

The Volt operates as a pure battery electric vehicle until its battery capacity drops to a predetermined threshold from full charge. From there, its internal combustion engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range as needed. While running on gasoline at high speeds the engine may be mechanically linked (by a clutch) to the car's gearbox, improving efficiency by 10% to 15%. The Volt's regenerative braking also contributes to the on-board electricity generation. Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the 2013‍–‍15 model year Volt all-electric range is 38 mi (61 km), with a combined electric mode/gasoline-only rating of 62 mpg‑US (3.8 L/100 km; 74 mpg‑imp) equivalent (MPG equivalent).

The second-generation Volt's improved battery system and drivetrain increased the all-electric range to 53 miles (85 km), its EPA-rated fuel economy in charge-sustaining mode to 42 mpg‑US (5.6 L/100 km; 50 mpg‑imp), and the combined city/highway fuel economy in all-electric mode to 106 MPG-e, up from 98 MPG-e. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. and Canada began in October 2015 as a 2016 model year.

The Volt won several awards, including the 2009 Green Car Vision Award, 2011 Green Car of the Year, 2011 North American Car of the Year, 2011 World Green Car, 2011 SAE Best engineered car, 2012 European Car of the Year, and 2016 Green Car of the Year.

First generation (2010–2015)

[edit]
2011 Chevrolet Volt

The production design model officially unveiled on September 16, 2008, as part of General Motors (GM) centennial celebration at the Wintergarden headquarters in Detroit.[1] The production model differed greatly in design from the original concept car. The carmaker cited necessary aerodynamic changes needed to reduce the concept car's high drag coefficient of Cd=0.43[2] down to Cd=0.28,[3] still higher than the Toyota Prius Cd=0.25. Another reason was the use of General Motors's new global compact vehicle platform Delta II to keep costs reasonable, and shared with the 2010 model year Chevrolet Cruze.[4] Another significant difference from the concept car was the seating, as the production Volt seats four rather than five passengers. This change was due to the higher-than-usual central tunnel that runs from the front console to the rear seat that houses the car's T-shaped battery pack.[5]

After the concept was put into the pipeline for production, GM began looking for a partner to develop the Volt's lithium-ion battery pack. The carmaker evaluated about 25 battery cell chemistries and constructions from around two dozen lithium-ion battery makers around the world.[6] Due to their more promising cell technologies, two companies were selected in June 2007, Compact Power (CPI), which uses a lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) cell made by its parent company, LG Chemical; and Continental Automotive Systems, which uses lithium iron phosphate based cylindrical cells made by A123Systems.[6][7][8] By the end of October 2007 CPI (LG Chem) delivered their finished battery pack prototypes, and A123 delivered theirs by January 2008. GM's testing process was conducted at the laboratory the carmaker had created for the GM EV1 program. The battery packs included monitoring systems designed to keep the batteries cool and operating at optimum capacity despite a wide range of ambient temperatures.[6][8] To ensure the battery pack would last 10 years and 150,000 miles (240,000 km) expected for the battery warranty, the Volt team decided to use only half of the 16 kWh capacity to reduce the rate of capacity degradation, limiting the state of charge (SOC) up to 80% of capacity and never depleting the battery below 30%.[8][9] GM also expected the battery to withstand 5,000 full discharges without losing more than 10% of its charge capacity.[8] According to GM, as of August 2016, no batteries had been changed due to degradation.[10]

Chevrolet Volt (left) and Chevrolet Cruze Eco (right)

In April 2008 GM started extensive battery testing. In two years, the carmaker put the battery packs to the equivalent of 150,000 real-world miles (240,000 km) and 10 years of use.[8] The durability of the battery pack was tested for a broad range of extreme ambient conditions including a shaker table to simulate potholes and a thermal chamber, to simulate temperatures varying from 116 °F (47 °C), typical of the Southwest deserts, to −40 °F (−40 °C) typical of the Alaskan tundra.[6] In April 2008 the lithium-ion battery pack was placed in Chevrolet Malibus fitted with the Volt powertrain to be used as test mules for further real-world testing.[8][11] In October 2008, GM chose CPI (LG Chemical) to provide the battery systems for the first production version of the Volt.[12][13] In July 2008, GM confirmed that a non-turbocharged, 1.4 L 4-cylinder engine would be used as the range extender, and that the intention was to build it in Flint, Michigan.[14] In April 2009, General Motors let journalists test the Volt powertrain without the range-extending generator in the body of Chevrolet Cruze sedans that GM used as test mules at the GM Technical Center in Warren, Michigan.[15]

The first pre-production test car based on the final Volt design was built in June 2009, in Warren, Michigan,[16][17] and by October 2009, 80 Volts had been built and were tested under various conditions.[17][18] On March 31, 2010, the first factory-built Volt was produced at the Detroit Hamtramck Assembly Plant to test the production line and for quality control purposes, both of the tooling and the pre-production vehicles produced before regular production began.[19][20]

Tony Posawatz was the Volt Vehicle Line Director from 2006 to 2012,[21] and he was known as employee #1 and led the team from concept to production.[22]

Final production vehicle, the 2011 Chevrolet Volt

General Motors held a ceremony at its Detroit Hamtramck Assembly Plant on November 30, 2010, to introduce the first Chevrolet Volt off the assembly line. The first Volt built for retail sale was earmarked for display at GM's Heritage Center museum in Sterling Heights, Michigan.[23] The second unit was offered at a public auction, with an opening bid of US$50,000 and it was won by Rick Hendrick who paid US$225,000. The proceeds went to fund mathematics and sciences education in Detroit through the Detroit Public Schools Foundation.[24] Deliveries to retail customers in the United States began in mid December 2010.[25] Volt deliveries began in Canada in September 2011.[26][27] The first deliveries of the Chevrolet Volt in Europe took place in November 2011.[28][29] The European version of the Volt, the Opel Ampera, was released to retail customers in Europe in February 2012.[30] Deliveries of the right-hand drive Vauxhall Ampera in the UK began in May 2012.[28] The Holden Volt was released in Australia in December 2012.[31]

Second generation (2016–2019)

[edit]
2018 Chevrolet Volt

The second generation Chevrolet Volt was unveiled at the January 2015 North American International Auto Show.[32] Retail deliveries began in the United States and Canada in October 2015 as a 2016 model year, with 1,324 units delivered in the U.S. that month.[33][34] Availability in the American market was limited to California and the other 10 states that follow California's zero emission vehicle regulations. GM scheduled the second generation as a 2017 model year to be released in the 39 remaining states by early 2016.[33] Manufacturing of the 2017 MY Volt began in February 2016, and the first units arrived at dealerships at the end of February 2016. The 2017 model complied with stricter Tier 3 emissions requirements and was available nationwide.[35]

The second generation Volt had an upgraded powertrain with a 1.5-liter engine that uses regular gasoline; the 18.4 kWh battery pack had new chemistry that stored 20% more electrical energy using fewer cells, 192 compared with 288 on the 2014 Volt. It had a new power controller that was integrated with the motor housing; the electric motors weighed 100 lb (45 kg) less and used smaller amounts of rare earth metals. GM engineers explained that the second generation Volt was developed with extensive input from Volt owners.[32][36][37]

The improvements allowed the 2016 Volt to deliver better EPA ratings than the first generation model. The all-electric range was rated at 53 mi (85 km), up from 38 mi (61 km) attained by the 2015 Volt. The gains in efficiency allowed the second generation to improve its combined fuel economy in gasoline-only (charge-sustaining) mode to 42 mpg‑US (5.6 L/100 km; 50 mpg‑imp), up from 37 mpg‑US (6.4 L/100 km; 44 mpg‑imp) for the previous model. The second generation rating for combined city/highway fuel economy in all-electric mode was 106 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPGe; 2.2 Le/100 km), up from 98 MPGe (2.4 Le/100 km) for the 2015 first generation model.[38][39] The combined gasoline-electricity fuel economy rating of the 2016 model year Volt was 77 mpg‑US (3.1 L/100 km; 92 mpg‑imp) equivalent, 82 MPGe (2.9 Le/100 km) in city driving and 72 MPGe (3.3 Le/100 km) in highway.[40] Both the all-electric range and fuel economy ratings are the same for the 2017 model year Volt.[41]

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).

In July 2014, Opel announced that due to a slowdown in sales, they would discontinue the Ampera after the launch of the second generation Volt—and that between 2014 and 2018, Opel planned to introduce a successor electric vehicle in Europe.[42] General Motors announced in February 2016 that the all-electric Opel Ampera-e hatchback would go into production in 2017. This is the European version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV.[43][44]

In April 2015, General Motors confirmed that it would not build the second-generation Volt in right-hand-drive configuration. Only 246 units had been sold in Australia by mid-April 2015, and the Holden Volt was discontinued once the remaining stock was sold.[45]

Sales

[edit]
Chevy Volt sales numbers[46]
Calendar year USA Canada
2010 326 n/a
2011 7,671 n/a
2012 23,461 n/a
2013 23,094 n/a
2014 18,805 1,521
2015 15,393 1,463
2016 24,739 3,469
2017 20,349 4,313
2018 18,306 4,394
2019 4,910 1,958
2020 71 9

Reception

[edit]

Awards and recognition

[edit]

The Volt received awards from multiple organizations:

U.S. organizations

The Chevrolet Volt won the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year award.
  • 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year. The magazine commented that "In the 61-year history of the Car of the Year award, there have been few contenders as hyped – or as controversial – as the Chevrolet Volt."[49]
  • 2011 Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. The magazine editors explained that "This award welcomes a new genre of mass-production electric vehicles to the consumer market, with the Volt as the first-ever electric vehicle to take top prize."[50]
  • 2011 Automobile of the Year by Automobile Magazine. The editors commented that the Volt "...is genuinely an all-new car, in the most simplistic sense as well as in the greater notion that the Volt is unlike any vehicle we have ever driven."[51]
  • 2011 North American Car of the Year announced at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. Forty-nine American and Canadian automobile writers chose the Volt. The nominees were judged based on "innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value".[52]
  • Listed among the 2011 Greenest Vehicles of the Year by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.[53][54]
  • Listed among the 2011 Best Green Cars by Mother Earth News.[55]
  • 2011 Edison Award – Gold in the Transportation Category, Personal Transportation Segment.[56][57]
  • 2012 Best Resale Value Award in the category of electric cars by Kelley Blue Book.[58]
  • 2011 The Volt ranked first in Consumer Reports' list of owner-satisfaction based on its 2011 Annual Auto Survey, with 93% respondents who owned the Volt saying they definitely would purchase that same vehicle again. The magazine noted that the Volt had been on sale for just a few months at the time of the survey, and also clarified that the survey took place before the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation regarding the Volt's battery fire risk.[59][60]
  • 2012 Total Cost of Ownership Award in the electric car category, granted by Kelley Blue Book for the lowest projected costs during the initial five-year ownership period in its category.[61]
  • 2012 The Volt ranked first, for the second year in a row, in Consumer Reports' list of owner-satisfaction based on its 2012 Annual Auto Survey, with 92% respondents who owned the Volt saying they definitely would purchase that same vehicle again.[62]
  • 2016 Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal (awarded to the second generation Volt). The Chevrolet Volt is the first model to receive this award more than once.[63]

International organizations

Opel Ampera exhibited with the 2012 European Car of the Year logo at the Geneva Motor Show

European organizations

  • 2011 Overall Winner of What Car? Green Awards, granted by the UK magazine to the Vauxhall Ampera.[68]
  • 2011 Top Gear's "Green Car of the Year 2011" to the Vauxhall Ampera.[69]
  • 2012 Car of the Year in Denmark. In October 2011, 18 Danish motor journalists chose the Opel Ampera as "Car of the Year 2012" by a wide margin, despite being more expensive than the family cars the award usually goes to.[70][71]
  • 2012 European Car of the Year, shared by the Chevrolet Volt and the Opel/Vauxhall.[72] The Ampera/Volt became the first car developed in the U.S. to win this European award.[73][74]
  • 2013 Green Mobility Trophy. Readers of Auto Zeitung in Germany awarded the Opel Ampera the trophy and named the mid-size sedan the best electric vehicle.[75]

Rest of the world organizations

  • 2012 Drive's Green Innovation Award to the Holden Volt, as part of the Australia's Drive Car of the Year Awards.[76]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Bibliography

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Chevrolet Volt is a electric vehicle (PHEV) manufactured by the Chevrolet division of (GM) from 2010 to 2019, notable for pioneering mass-market extended-range electric vehicle technology in the United States. It employs a battery-powered electric drive system as its primary propulsion, with a small serving solely as a generator to extend driving range beyond the battery's capacity, rather than directly driving the wheels in most scenarios. The Volt achieved EPA-estimated all-electric ranges of 35–38 miles in its first generation and 53 miles in its , paired with efficiency of 37–42 for a total combined range of approximately 380–420 miles. Development of the Volt began in 2006 under GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz, who sought to counter criticisms of the company's environmental record following the discontinuation of the EV1 electric car, with the concept unveiled at the 2007 . Production of the first-generation model (2011–2015) started in late 2010 at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly plant, featuring a 1.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine, a 16-kWh pack, and a single 111-kW delivering 149 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of . The second generation (2016–2019), redesigned for improved aerodynamics and efficiency, incorporated a lighter 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine, an 18.4-kWh battery, and dual s for enhanced performance and . Over its run, the Volt received acclaim for its smooth electric driving experience, safety ratings, and role in advancing PHEV adoption, though sales totaled around 157,000 units amid shifting market preferences toward full EVs. GM discontinued Volt production in February 2019 as part of a strategic pivot to all-electric vehicles like the EV, citing low demand for sedans and hybrids in favor of SUVs and pure EVs, despite the Volt's technical innovations influencing GM's battery platform. It was marketed as the Holden Volt in from 2012 until 2015 and as the Ampera in from 2011 until 2015, and it earned multiple awards, including Motor Trend's 2011 for its groundbreaking powertrain.

Overview

Introduction

The Chevrolet Volt is a electric vehicle (PHEV) manufactured by under the Chevrolet division, distinguished by its extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) architecture. This design positions the Volt primarily as a (BEV), powered by an and for everyday driving, with a that functions exclusively as a generator to recharge the battery and extend range rather than directly driving the wheels. Unveiled as a concept in January 2007 at the , the Volt was introduced for the 2011 , with production beginning in late 2010 at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center and the first customer deliveries occurring in December 2010. Production spanned two generations and concluded in February 2019, marking the end of a pioneering effort in mass-market electrified vehicles. The Volt delivered up to 53 miles of EPA-rated electric-only range in its , supported by an 18.4 kWh battery, and achieved a total combined range of over 420 miles with a full of in the . It accommodated seating for five passengers, with a compact layout offering 10.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. As the first mass-produced PHEV available in the U.S. market, the Volt sought to minimize oil dependence by enabling zero-emission electric commuting for most daily trips while providing seamless hybrid extension for longer journeys.

Development History

The development of the Chevrolet Volt originated in late 2006, when Vice Chairman Bob Lutz, reacting to the unveiling of the Tesla Roadster, advocated for an electrified vehicle to demonstrate GM's innovation and counter perceptions of environmental lag. Lutz described the Tesla prototype as a wake-up call, prompting GM to initiate an internal project aimed at creating a with significant . This effort built on earlier GM concepts like the EV1 but shifted focus to a range-extended electric architecture to address battery limitations of the era. GM formalized its response with the Volt concept reveal at the 2007 in , introducing the E-Flex platform as a modular system featuring a primary , , and optional range-extending engine to generate electricity beyond the battery's capacity. The concept promised up to 40 miles of electric-only driving, with the engine activating as a generator for extended trips, marking a departure from traditional hybrids by prioritizing . Key engineering leads, including chief Jon Lauckner, oversaw the integration of these elements to ensure seamless transitions between modes. Prototype development accelerated in 2008, with initial test mules—early integration vehicles using off-the-shelf components—undergoing validation for the electric and battery performance under varied conditions, including high-heat environments to simulate real-world . By mid-2008, GM confirmed the Volt's production intent, with Lutz personally driving that achieved the targeted 40-mile electric range despite incomplete calibration. The final design freeze occurred in September 2008, locking in the exterior styling and core Voltec architecture close to the concept's aerodynamic form. Major engineering challenges centered on the system, where early packs exceeded $10,000 per unit due to limited production scale and material costs, requiring innovations in cell chemistry and manufacturing to achieve viability for . Argonne National Laboratory's manganese-rich technology, licensed to GM, helped enhance and safety while supporting cost reductions through improved longevity and thermal management. Integrating the 149-horsepower (111 kW) with the 1.4-liter inline-four as a dedicated generator posed additional hurdles, including vibration harshness control and efficient power blending to maintain electric-like driving feel without direct mechanical wheel linkage. These issues were addressed through iterative simulations and dyno testing to optimize the planetary gearset and clutches for mode switching. Government support bolstered battery advancements, with the U.S. Department of Energy awarding GM approximately $249 million in 2009 as part of a $2.4 billion stimulus package for lithium-ion production facilities tied to the Volt, enabling scaled manufacturing at LG Chem's plant. This funding complemented GM's internal investments, accelerating supplier partnerships for high-volume cell production. Pre-production efforts spanned alpha prototypes in 2007—initial proof-of-concept builds focusing on E-Flex hardware—and beta vehicles from 2008 to 2009, which incorporated near-final body and interior designs for subsystem validation. By June 2009, the first full integration prototypes rolled out in , followed by over 80 units tested for durability by October. Real-world fleet evaluations expanded in 2010, deploying more than 150 Volts to utilities and agencies for on charging patterns, range, and reliability under daily use.

Design and Technology

Powertrain and Drivetrain

The Chevrolet Volt utilizes an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) architecture, prioritizing electric propulsion for primary drive while employing a exclusively as a generator, without any direct mechanical linkage to the wheels. This design enables seamless integration of battery-powered electric driving with supplemental generation for extended travel. The system features a front-wheel-drive rated at 149 horsepower, delivering instant for responsive acceleration, paired with a single-speed known as the Voltec drive unit. In the first generation (2011–2015), the incorporates a 1.4-liter inline-four producing 84 horsepower, which operates solely to generate electricity for the battery or motors when needed. The second generation (2016–2019) upgrades to a more efficient 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle delivering 101 horsepower, enhancing overall while maintaining the generator-only role. Both generations include a secondary unit that assists in power distribution and , contributing to the system's total output of 149 horsepower and up to 273 lb-ft of from the primary motor in the first generation, increasing to 294 lb-ft in the second. This configuration provides 0–60 mph in 8.8 seconds for the first generation and 7.8 seconds for the second, emphasizing smooth, electric-dominant performance. The Volt operates in two primary modes: charge-depleting (EV) mode, where it functions as a pure using battery power alone for up to 38 miles in the first generation or 53 miles in the second, according to EPA ratings, before transitioning to hybrid operation. In charge-sustaining mode, the engine activates to generate , maintaining the battery's between approximately 30% and 45% to optimize longevity and efficiency, allowing total range exceeding 300 miles. A regenerative braking system captures during deceleration, recovering up to 60 kW to recharge the battery, which blends with for controlled stopping and further extends electric range in urban . Efficiency highlights the Volt's hybrid advantages, with EPA ratings of 93–98 MPGe in electric mode and 37 in hybrid mode for the first generation, improving to 106 MPGe electric and 42 hybrid in due to refined and . These figures reflect the EREV's ability to prioritize zero-emission driving for short trips while providing fallback for longer journeys without compromising performance.

Battery System and Charging

The Chevrolet Volt's battery system utilized lithium-ion technology as its primary energy storage, integrated within ' Voltec propulsion architecture to enable extended-range operation. The was designed for high and safety, with features like individual cell monitoring and thermal management to optimize performance and longevity. Across both generations, the system prioritized seamless transitions between electric-only and hybrid modes without user intervention. In the first generation (2011–2015), the Volt featured a 16 kWh pack comprising 288 cells in a T-shaped configuration, weighing under 400 pounds (181 kg). Of this capacity, approximately 10.5 kWh was usable to preserve battery , with a nominal voltage around 360 V and liquid cooling via manifolds and lines for efficient dissipation. The pack's manganese-based chemistry contributed to its stability and safety profile. The second generation (2016–2019) upgraded to an 18.4 kWh pack with 14 kWh usable capacity, consisting of 192 cells in a 96S 2P and a nominal voltage of 360 V (peak 395 V). This iteration introduced direct liquid fin cooling for enhanced thermal management, reducing the pack's weight to 183 kg while improving to 101 Wh/kg and 119 Wh/L. The allowed for higher discharge power up to 120 kW for short bursts. Charging for the Volt was compatible with standard household and public infrastructure, relying on an onboard charger rated at 3.3 kW for most models. Level 1 charging via a 120 V outlet typically required about 8 hours for a full charge, suitable for overnight replenishment. Level 2 charging with a V outlet reduced this to approximately 4.5 hours for the standard 3.3 kW charger, or about 2.5 hours with the optional 7.2 kW charger available on some second-generation models. DC fast charging was not standard, as the Volt's architecture focused on AC charging to align with its role. The battery system's evolution directly influenced electric-only range, with the first generation delivering 35–38 miles per EPA estimates before the range-extending engine activated. The second generation extended this to 53 miles, benefiting from the increased usable capacity and efficiency gains. These ranges covered typical daily commutes for most owners, minimizing gasoline use. Durability was a core focus, backed by an 8-year/100,000-mile covering the battery and Voltec components, ensuring capacity retention above 60–70% under normal use. GM's extensive testing, exceeding 1 million miles and 4 million hours, demonstrated minimal degradation; real-world examples include vehicles surpassing 400,000 miles with no noticeable . Independent analyses confirmed low degradation rates, often under 5% after high mileage in controlled studies. Key innovations in the Voltec system included advanced battery management for seamless power allocation, with over 500 diagnostics running 10 times per second to monitor cell health and prevent imbalances. This enabled efficient energy flow between the battery, electric , and , optimizing range and without compromising or .

Interior, Safety, and Features

The Chevrolet Volt's interior adopts a compact five-door configuration, seating five passengers with comfortable accommodations for four adults in a driver-focused dual-cockpit layout featuring ergonomic controls and ample front headroom of 37.8 inches. Cargo capacity stands at 10.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 30.5 cubic feet with the 60/40-split folding rear seats lowered to create a nearly flat load floor. The second-generation Volt (2016–2019) incorporates Chevrolet's infotainment system with an 8-inch color touchscreen, supporting , , audio streaming, and multiple USB ports for device integration. The configurable LCD instrument cluster offers four display layouts, including a dedicated energy flow screen that illustrates real-time power transfer among the battery, electric drive unit, and gasoline engine for intuitive hybrid monitoring. Hybrid-specific driver aids enhance usability, such as Hold mode, which maintains battery charge levels by favoring engine operation during extended trips, and an optional built-in navigation system with EV route planning to prioritize all-electric segments. Regenerative braking integrates a Hold function on the shift lever, enabling one-pedal driving to optimize energy recovery without frequent brake use. Safety performance is strong, with both generations receiving a five-star overall rating from the (NHTSA), including five stars in frontal and side crash tests. The second generation earned "Good" ratings from the (IIHS) in moderate overlap frontal, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, plus Superior for front crash prevention. Standard equipment includes , traction control, ten airbags (dual-stage frontal, side-impact, knee, and rear side-curtain), and telematics for automatic crash response and remote diagnostics. The cabin delivers a serene driving experience in electric-only mode, minimizing engine noise and vibrations for enhanced comfort on short trips. Available amenities in LT and Premier trims include heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped , and an optional Bose premium audio system with eight speakers for superior sound quality. All models use exclusively. Easy accessibility defines the Volt's user-friendly design, with a low step-in height of approximately 15 inches at , aiding entry for occupants of varying abilities in its compact 56.4-inch overall height profile. Remote start functionality, operable via key fob or the myChevrolet , enables cabin preconditioning to maintain a set and optimize battery performance before departure.

Generations

First Generation (2011–2015)

The first-generation Chevrolet Volt was introduced as a compact, four-door designed for aerodynamic efficiency and urban practicality. Measuring 177.1 inches in length with a 105.7-inch , it utilized ' Delta II platform, providing a low center of gravity enhanced by the T-shaped pack positioned beneath the floor. The body's sleek profile achieved a drag coefficient of 0.287, contributing to its efficiency while seating four passengers in a configuration that prioritized cargo space with 10.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Production began with the 2011 model year as a single base trim equipped with standard features like cloth upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and keyless entry. For 2013, the lineup expanded to include LT and Premier trims; the LT added options such as navigation and enhanced audio, while the Premier featured leather-appointed seats, a Bose premium 7-speaker sound system, heated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror for a more luxurious interior. The 2013 refresh also improved battery thermal management through refined liquid cooling algorithms, allowing for better performance in extreme temperatures and an increased all-electric range of 38 miles on a full charge, up from 35 miles in prior years. Additionally, a new Hold mode was introduced, enabling drivers to preserve battery charge by relying more on the gasoline engine during highway travel or when electric operation was less beneficial, such as in cold weather requiring cabin heating. The 2014 model year brought minor styling tweaks, including new wheel designs and two additional exterior colors—Brownstone Metallic and Ashen Gray Metallic—along with optional power-adjustable seats and a heated steering wheel on higher trims. Safety concerns prompted several recalls during the first generation. In late 2011, following crash tests that revealed a potential battery risk if the high-voltage pack was damaged in a severe collision, issued a affecting about 1,600 early 2011 Volts; the remedy involved a software update to prevent charging if damage was detected, supplemented by free battery replacements for affected crashed vehicles. A smaller 2012 targeted four vehicles for a modulator that could reduce braking assist, addressed through component and repair. For international markets, the first-generation Volt was exported to as the Ampera from 2012 to 2015, featuring minor adaptations like right-hand drive for the (badged as Ampera) and metric instrumentation, while retaining the core and design. Priced at approximately €42,900, the Ampera shared the Volt's 38-mile electric range but faced slower adoption due to higher costs and limited charging infrastructure, leading to its discontinuation after 2015 without a direct successor.

Second Generation (2016–2019)

The second-generation Chevrolet Volt, introduced for the 2016 , featured a comprehensive redesign built on ' D2XX platform (an enhanced version of the Delta platform), which provided a longer of 106.1 inches compared to the previous generation's 105.7 inches, enhancing interior space and ride comfort. The exterior adopted a sleeker profile with improved , achieving a of 0.28, aided by features such as active grille shutters that optimize airflow for better efficiency. Overall, the vehicle was lighter by approximately 200 pounds, with a curb weight of 3,543 pounds for the base LT trim, thanks to advancements in materials and component integration that reduced mass without compromising structural integrity. The saw significant upgrades, including a new 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 101 horsepower, paired with dual electric motors—one serving as the primary drive unit (149 hp combined system output) and the other enabling enhanced for improved energy recapture. This configuration extended the all-electric driving range to 53 miles per EPA estimates, supported by an 18.4 kWh pack that was 13 kg lighter and offered 25% more usable capacity than its predecessor. The system prioritized electric-only operation for short trips while seamlessly transitioning to range-extender mode for longer journeys, delivering a total range exceeding 420 miles. Available in LT and Premier trims at launch, the 2016 Volt included standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with compatibility, while support was added via a mid-year software update. For , minor enhancements included an optional driver-assistance package with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on the LT trim. Additional conveniences across model years encompassed a wireless smartphone charging pad and low-rolling-resistance tires to further boost efficiency. A similar variant, the Buick Velite 5, was produced for the Chinese market from onward. Unlike the first-generation model, which had an export variant as the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera in , the second generation remained primarily focused on the North American market, with no major international variants produced beyond . The 2019 model year brought no significant changes to the lineup, maintaining the established specifications through its final production run. Assembly of the Chevrolet Volt concluded at GM's Hamtramck Assembly plant in on February 15, 2019, marking the end of the second-generation model's eight-year span.

Production and Sales

Manufacturing Locations

The Chevrolet Volt was primarily assembled at ' Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant, located on the border between and Hamtramck, Michigan. The facility, which opened in 1985, underwent significant retooling in 2010 to support Volt production, including a $336 million for assembly lines and supporting . The plant's planned annual capacity for the Volt reached up to 60,000 units following upgrades in 2011, though actual output varied based on demand. Production began with pre-production units in March 2010 and concluded with the final Volt rolling off the line on February 15, 2019. The Volt's lithium-ion battery packs were initially produced by at facilities in , supporting early production volumes. To localize supply and meet U.S. content requirements for federal incentives, established a dedicated plant in , which began operations in 2012 and ramped up to full production of Volt battery cells by August 2013. This U.S. facility supplied cells for both generations of the Volt, contributing to over 23 million cells produced with a defect rate below two per million by 2015. Across its two generations, the Detroit-Hamtramck plant produced approximately 88,000 first-generation Volts for the U.S. market from 2011 to 2015 and around 69,000 second-generation units from 2016 to 2019, with additional units exported for international variants like the Ampera, for a global total of approximately 177,000 vehicles by late 2018 and around 182,000 by the end of production in 2019. These figures reflect U.S.-focused production, with some units exported for international variants like the Ampera. At peak, the Detroit-Hamtramck plant employed over 2,000 workers dedicated to Volt assembly and related operations amid multi-model production. The 2019 discontinuation of Volt production contributed to the plant's eventual idling, resulting in the loss of about 1,500 jobs and significant economic impacts on the local Detroit-Hamtramck community. By 2015, the Volt's supply chain achieved approximately 70% North American content, with parts sourced primarily from the U.S. and , up from about 50% at launch; this localization qualified the vehicle for enhanced federal credits under battery production mandates.

Sales Performance

The Chevrolet Volt achieved its highest annual U.S. in with 23,461 units, following an initial launch year of 7,671 units in 2011 amid significant consumer interest and waitlists exceeding six months in some regions. grew steadily through the mid-2010s, peaking again at 24,739 units in 2016 with the introduction of the second-generation model, before declining to 4,911 units in 2019 as production ended. Cumulative U.S. reached approximately 157,000 units by the end of 2019.
YearU.S. Sales
20117,671
201223,461
201323,094
201418,805
201515,393
201624,739
201720,349
201818,306
20194,911
The Volt's sales trajectory was heavily influenced by federal and state incentives, including a $7,500 federal , which applied fully until the first quarter of 2019 when reached the 200,000-unit threshold in the fourth quarter of , triggering a phase-out to 50% for the second and third quarters of 2019, 25% for the fourth quarter of 2019 and first quarter of 2020, and none thereafter. State-level rebates, such as 's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, further accelerated early adoption by providing up to $2,500 in additional incentives, contributing to sales growth in high-EV markets like , which accounted for over 40% of Volt purchases in peak years. Post-2016 declines were exacerbated by rising competition from full battery electric vehicles, notably the , which captured significant market share starting in 2017 with lower effective pricing after incentives and broader appeal to long-range drivers. The Volt maintained the position of best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in the U.S. from its 2011 debut through 2016, but was overtaken by the Prime starting in 2017 (20,936 units vs. Volt's 20,349) and again in 2018, with cumulative sales surpassing earlier rivals like the . Globally, Volt variants including the / Ampera sold approximately 177,000 units by late 2018, with the U.S. comprising the majority and limited international penetration due to the absence of right-hand-drive configurations for key markets like the and ; global variants like the Ampera added about 10,000-15,000 units overall. represented a smaller but notable segment, with 16,653 units sold through September 2018.

Discontinuation and Aftermath

In November 2018, General Motors announced the discontinuation of Chevrolet Volt production by the end of 2019, as part of a strategic restructuring to prioritize battery electric vehicles (BEVs) such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV. The decision stemmed from declining demand for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) like the Volt, amid shifting consumer preferences toward fully electric models bolstered by federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, and the high development costs of the Volt program, which had not achieved expected volume. Additionally, the Volt's powertrain overlapped with upcoming vehicles on GM's new Ultium battery platform, reducing the need for continued PHEV investment. Production concluded ahead of schedule on February 15, 2019, when the final 2019 Volt rolled off the assembly line at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant, with a ceremony marking the end of nearly a decade of manufacturing. Remaining dealer inventory was depleted by early 2020 as sales tapered off. In the aftermath, GM pledged ongoing support for Volt owners, ensuring parts availability through its dealer network for a minimum of 10 years post-discontinuation; as of 2025, critical components like battery modules remain accessible, though lead times for some repairs have extended due to reduced production scale. The used market for the Volt has shown resilience, with low-mileage second-generation models (2016–2019) typically priced between $10,000 and $20,000 in 2025, appealing to budget-conscious buyers valuing the vehicle's efficiency and range-extender capability. The Detroit-Hamtramck facility was idled following the Volt's end and reconfigured into Factory Zero, GM's dedicated EV plant, with $2.2 billion invested for electric vehicle assembly; by 2021, it had begun producing models like the hand-built Cadillac Celestiq ultra-luxury EV. As of November 2025, GM has no direct PHEV successor to the Volt, maintaining emphasis on BEVs while planning new plug-in hybrids for 2027 onward, leaving a temporary void in its electrified compact lineup.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Reviews

The first-generation Chevrolet Volt received high praise from automotive experts for its groundbreaking engineering and electric driving experience. lauded its seamless transition between electric and hybrid modes, crisp handling, and impressive efficiency, calling it a "revolutionary" vehicle that eliminated for short commutes. Similarly, named the 2011 Volt its , highlighting its advanced powertrain integration and quick acceleration in EV mode as engineering triumphs that set new standards for plug-in hybrids. However, some reviews noted drawbacks, such as noticeable engine noise during hybrid operation, which disrupted the otherwise quiet EV ride. For the second generation, Edmunds awarded an 8 out of 10 rating, commending the improved electric range and responsive handling while critiquing the stiff suspension on rough roads. Experts appreciated the Volt's overall drivability, with quick acceleration and low operating costs, but pointed out its —starting at over $39,000 MSRP—which positioned it as a luxury option in the compact segment. Consumer feedback echoed these sentiments, with assigning an average reliability score of around 80 out of 100 across model years, reflecting solid build quality but occasional minor issues. Owners frequently praised the smooth, silent EV driving experience and substantial fuel savings, often achieving over 100 MPGe in daily use. On , the Volt earned a 4.5 out of 5 rating, with users highlighting its fun-to-drive nature and low maintenance costs. Common complaints included the high initial cost and cramped rear seating, which limited comfort for passengers taller than average. Long-term owner reports underscore the Volt's durability, with many vehicles surpassing 200,000 miles with minimal repairs beyond routine . One documented 2012 Volt reached 250,000 miles, primarily on , with no battery degradation or major failures reported. In comparisons to rivals like the Toyota Prius, the Volt excelled in electric-only range and acceleration, offering a more engaging drive for EV enthusiasts. However, it lagged behind the Prius in pure hybrid fuel efficiency during extended gasoline use.

Awards and Recognition

The Chevrolet Volt garnered numerous accolades upon its debut, recognizing its pioneering role as the first mass-produced plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in the United States. In 2011, it became the first PHEV to win the North American Car of the Year award, selected by a jury of 49 automotive journalists for its innovative engineering and extended-range capability. That same year, the Volt was named Green Car Journal's Green Car of the Year, praised for its ability to achieve up to 35 miles of electric-only driving before engaging its gasoline range extender. The Volt also received the 2011 World Green Car award, highlighting its global impact on sustainable mobility as the winner among finalists including the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics and . In recognition of its engineering excellence, SAE International's International magazine named it the Best Engineered Vehicle of 2011, based on votes from readers and editors for its advanced integration and design. For its battery technology, awarded the Volt its 2010 Breakthrough Technology honor, commending the vehicle's lithium-ion pack for enabling seamless electric driving without . The first-generation Volt further earned high consumer ratings from Edmunds.com, achieving a 4.6 out of 5 score in 2012 based on owner feedback for its and driving dynamics. The second-generation Volt, introduced in 2016, continued this legacy by winning Green Car Reports' Best Car to Buy award, lauded for its improved 53-mile electric range and refined 1.5-liter engine. Additionally, in 2016, presented the Edward N. Cole Award for Automotive Engineering Innovation to executive Larry Nitz for his leadership in the Volt's systems development. In , retired first-generation Volt batteries contributed to a title for the most people simultaneously generating via exercise bikes, powering a crowd of over 4,700 at the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games and demonstrating the batteries' viability for secondary applications. These honors underscored the Volt's contributions to advancing electrification in the .

Environmental and Market Impact

The Chevrolet Volt significantly contributed to emissions reductions during its production run, with estimating that Volt owners avoided the use of approximately 58 million gallons of by 2016 through electric-only driving, a figure that grew substantially over the vehicle's lifecycle as cumulative sales exceeded 150,000 units. This displacement equated to substantial savings, comparable to removing hundreds of thousands of conventional vehicles from U.S. roads for a year, based on average metrics. The Volt's design enabled drivers to cover a majority of daily miles on , reducing tailpipe emissions and dependence on fuels in urban settings. As the first mass-produced plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) launched in 2010, the Volt pioneered affordable electrified mobility for mainstream consumers and influenced competitors to enter the segment, notably prompting Ford to introduce the C-Max Energi in as a direct response to the Volt's extended-range capabilities. This competition accelerated PHEV adoption, helping plug-in vehicles achieve about 2% of the U.S. new market by 2019, up from near-zero a decade earlier, while also spurring broader investments in U.S. EV charging infrastructure to support growing electrified fleets. Post-discontinuation in 2019, the used Volt market has sustained this momentum by offering one of the most affordable entry points into PHEV ownership, with models available under $10,000 in 2025, thereby promoting accessible electrification for budget-conscious buyers transitioning from pure gasoline . Despite these benefits, the Volt faced criticisms for its limited global reach, primarily confined to , , and select markets like , which restricted its overall emissions impact compared to more widespread models. Additionally, like other lithium-ion battery-equipped vehicles, the Volt's production involved environmental costs associated with mining and , including water depletion and habitat disruption in extraction regions such as and the Democratic Republic of Congo. By 2025, the Volt's legacy endures as the top-selling used PHEV in the U.S., informing ' battery platform strategy for full battery-electric vehicles by demonstrating scalable hybrid architectures and real-world gains.

References

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