The Chevy Volt is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that offers both electric and gasoline-powered driving. As with any electric vehicle, the battery life is a crucial factor to consider. In this article, we’ll delve into the battery life of the second-generation Chevrolet Volt and provide valuable information to help you understand its performance and longevity.
Battery Capacity and Degradation
The second-generation Chevy Volt boasts an 18.4 kWh battery pack. However, only 14.0 kWh of this capacity is usable for electric driving. According to GM’s battery warranty, the battery may lose up to 40% of its full capacity within the first 8 years or 100,000 miles and still meet warranty specifications.
Real-World Battery Life
Data from Voltstats.net, a website that tracked Volt battery performance, shows that many 2016, 2017, and 2018 Volt owners have surpassed 100,000 total miles. Some have even exceeded 150,000 miles. These data suggest that Volt batteries have a solid lifespan.
Battery Capacity Loss:
Based on the warranty specifications, a battery that has degraded to 60% of its original full capacity would have approximately 8.4 kWh usable for a “full charge.” Similarly, a battery at 80% of its original full capacity would have approximately 11.2 kWh usable.
Factors Affecting Battery Life
The battery life of a Chevy Volt can be influenced by several factors, including:
Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent use of the gas engine, and extreme temperatures can reduce battery life.
Charging habits: Overcharging or undercharging can also impact battery performance.
Battery chemistry: The chemical composition of the battery can affect its lifespan.
Environmental conditions: Exposure to extreme heat or cold can accelerate battery degradation.
To maximize the battery life of your Chevy Volt, consider following these tips:
Avoid extreme temperatures: Park in shaded areas and use a garage when possible.
Charge regularly: Keep the battery charged between 20% and 80% for optimal performance.
Use the gas engine when necessary: Don’t rely solely on the electric motor to extend the battery’s lifespan.
Monitor battery health: Regularly check the battery’s health using the vehicle’s diagnostics system or a qualified mechanic.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chevy Volt Battery Life
How long does the battery last on a Chevy Volt?
The usable battery capacity of a Chevy Volt is 14.0 kWh, which provides an electric-only driving range of up to 53 miles (85 km) according to EPA estimates.
How long will the Volt battery last?
The GM battery warranty for second-generation Volts covers up to 8 years or 100,000 miles, with a maximum capacity loss of 40% during that period. Data from Volt owners indicates that batteries are lasting even longer, with many surpassing 100,000 miles and retaining over 80% of their original capacity.
What happens when the Volt battery degrades?
As the battery degrades, its usable capacity decreases, reducing the electric-only driving range. However, even at 60% of its original capacity, the battery would still provide approximately 8.4 kWh of usable energy.
What factors affect Volt battery life?
Factors that can affect Volt battery life include driving habits, charging practices, and environmental conditions. Aggressive driving, rapid charging, and extreme temperatures can all shorten battery lifespan.
