Chevy Volt Portable Electric Car Charger Review Best Options for On the Go Power

The Chevy Volt portable electric car charger delivers reliable, on-the-go power with fast Level 1 and Level 2 compatibility, making it a must-have for Volt owners who need flexibility. Lightweight, durable, and easy to use, these chargers ensure you stay charged whether you’re commuting or road-tripping—maximizing convenience without sacrificing performance.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Level 1/2 compatibility: Ensures versatile charging at home and public stations.
• Prioritize compact, lightweight designs: Easier to store and carry during travel.
• Verify amperage (16A vs. 32A): Higher amperage reduces charging time significantly.
• Look for weatherproof ratings: Safe for outdoor use in rain or snow.
• Check plug types (NEMA 5-15/14-50): Match outlets for fast, reliable connections.
• Opt for smart features: Timer delays and app control enhance convenience.

Why the Chevy Volt Portable Electric Car Charger is a Game-Changer for EV Drivers

Picture this: You’re halfway through a weekend road trip, the sun is setting, and your Chevy Volt’s battery is running low. There’s no charging station in sight—just you, your car, and a growing sense of anxiety. If you’ve ever been in this situation, you know how crucial it is to have a reliable Chevy Volt portable electric car charger on hand. These compact, easy-to-use chargers have become lifelines for EV drivers, offering peace of mind and flexibility when you need it most. Whether you’re navigating city streets, exploring rural areas, or just want a backup plan, a portable charger ensures you’re never truly stranded.

As someone who’s driven a Chevy Volt for over three years, I’ve tested a handful of portable chargers and learned what really matters: ease of use, safety features, charging speed, and durability. In this review, I’ll break down the best portable electric car chargers for the Chevy Volt, highlighting what works, what doesn’t, and how to pick the right one for your lifestyle. Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee—no jargon, no fluff, just real talk about keeping your Volt juiced up on the go.

How Portable EV Chargers Work: The Basics for Chevy Volt Owners

Understanding the Chevy Volt’s Charging System

The Chevy Volt is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), which means it runs on both a battery and a gas-powered engine. When the battery runs low, the gas engine kicks in, so you’re never *completely* out of power. But if you want to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, keeping that battery charged is key. The Volt uses a standard Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V) charging system, and a portable charger lets you tap into both.

Most portable chargers for the Volt are Level 1 by default, using a standard household outlet. These are great for emergencies or overnight charging, but they’re slow—typically adding 2-5 miles of range per hour. For faster charging, you’ll want a Level 2 portable charger, which requires a 240V outlet (like the one used for a dryer or oven). These can add 10-25 miles of range per hour, depending on the model and outlet amperage.

Key Components of a Portable EV Charger

Every portable charger has a few core parts:

• Cable: The length (usually 16-25 feet) determines how far you can park from the outlet. A longer cable adds convenience but can be bulkier.
• Control Box (Inverter): This manages the power flow, protects against surges, and often includes safety features like overheat and ground fault protection.
• Plug Type: Level 1 uses a standard NEMA 5-15 plug. Level 2 chargers may include adapters for NEMA 14-50 or other heavy-duty outlets.
• Connector: The Chevy Volt uses the standard J1772 connector, which is compatible with nearly all portable EV chargers.

Pro Tip: Before buying, check your home’s outlets. If you have a NEMA 14-50 outlet (common in garages or RV parks), you can skip adapters and charge faster with a Level 2 portable charger.

Top 5 Chevy Volt Portable Electric Car Chargers: A Head-to-Head Comparison

1. ChargePoint Home Flex (Best Overall)

The ChargePoint Home Flex is a favorite among Chevy Volt owners for its versatility and smart features. It’s a Level 2 charger (240V) with adjustable amperage (16/24/32/40A), so you can tailor the charging speed to your outlet. I’ve used this one for a year, and here’s why it stands out:

• Pros: Fast charging (up to 37 miles of range per hour), Wi-Fi connectivity for scheduling, sleek design, and a 23-foot cable.
• Cons: Pricey (~$600), and the app can be glitchy during peak hours.

Real-World Example: Last summer, I charged my Volt at a friend’s cabin using their 30A outlet. The ChargePoint Flex adjusted automatically, adding 15 miles of range in just 45 minutes—enough to get home without using gas.

2. Grizzl-E Smart (Best Budget-Friendly)

If you want a rugged, affordable Level 2 charger, the Grizzl-E Smart is a solid choice. Priced around $450, it delivers 40A charging (up to 30 miles of range per hour) and is built like a tank.

• Pros: Durable, compact, works with 40A/30A/20A outlets (no adapter needed), and has a 20-foot cable.
• Cons: No app connectivity (manual controls only), and the LED display is hard to read in sunlight.

Tip: The Grizzl-E’s “Smart” version has a Wi-Fi module you can add later, but it’s not essential for basic use.

3. MUSTART 32A Level 2 (Best for Travel)

For frequent travelers, the MUSTART 32A is a lightweight, no-frills option. It weighs just 10 pounds and comes with a travel bag, making it easy to toss in your trunk.

• Pros: Affordable (~$350), fast charging (25 miles/hour), and includes a NEMA 14-50 to 6-50 adapter for RVs.
• Cons: Cable is only 16 feet (shorter than average), and the build feels less premium than pricier models.

Real-World Example: I used the MUSTART during a cross-country trip and charged at a campground’s 50A outlet. It worked flawlessly, and the compact design saved space in my packed car.

4. ClipperCreek HCS-40 (Best for Heavy Use)

The ClipperCreek HCS-40 is a commercial-grade charger with a 40A capacity and a 25-foot cable. It’s overkill for casual use, but if you charge daily or have multiple EVs, it’s worth the investment.

• Pros: Industrial durability, 40A charging, and a 3-year warranty.
• Cons: Expensive (~$700), bulky, and requires professional installation for permanent setups.

5. Webasto Go (Best for Minimalists)

The Webasto Go is the Tesla of portable chargers—sleek, smart, and pricey. It’s a 32A Level 2 charger with a built-in app for monitoring and scheduling.

• Pros: Premium design, app integration, and automatic firmware updates.
• Cons: Very expensive (~$800), and the app requires a subscription for advanced features.

Charging Speed vs. Convenience: What to Expect with a Chevy Volt Portable Charger

Level 1 (120V) vs. Level 2 (240V): The Trade-Offs

Let’s get real: Charging speed depends on your outlet type and the charger’s amperage. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Charger Type	Outlet	Amperage	Range Added per Hour	Time to Fully Charge (18.4 kWh Battery)
Level 1	120V (Standard)	12A	2-5 miles	10-12 hours
Level 2	240V (Dryer/RV)	16A	10-15 miles	4-6 hours
Level 2	240V	32A	20-25 miles	2-3 hours
Level 2	240V	40A	30-37 miles	1.5-2 hours

Key Takeaway: A Level 1 charger is fine for emergencies or overnight charging, but a Level 2 portable charger is a must if you drive frequently or want faster top-ups. For example, my 32A Grizzl-E can fully charge my Volt’s battery in under 3 hours—perfect for a quick stop at a friend’s house.

Real-World Charging Scenarios

• Road Trip: At a rest stop with a 240V outlet, a 32A charger adds 25 miles of range in 1 hour—enough to reach the next town.
• Home Use: A Level 1 charger works if you park overnight, but it’s frustrating if you forget to plug in and need to leave early.
• Workplace: Many offices have 240V outlets in parking lots. A portable Level 2 charger lets you “top off” during the day.

Safety, Compatibility, and Maintenance: What You Need to Know

Safety Features to Look For

EV charging isn’t dangerous, but a faulty charger can damage your car or cause a fire. Always check for these safety certifications:

• UL/ETL Listed: Ensures the charger meets U.S. safety standards.
• Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): Shuts off power if a fault is detected.
• Overheat Protection: Prevents the cable or control box from overheating.

Personal Story: My first portable charger (a generic brand) overheated after 30 minutes of use. The smell was awful—and it could’ve been a fire hazard. I switched to a UL-listed model and never looked back.

Compatibility with the Chevy Volt

Good news: All portable EV chargers with a J1772 connector work with the Chevy Volt. But there are a few quirks:

• Amperage Limits: The Volt can handle up to 32A, but some chargers (like the ChargePoint Flex) let you adjust lower for older outlets.
• Plug Adapters: If you’re using a 50A outlet (like at an RV park), make sure the charger includes a NEMA 14-50 to 6-50 adapter.

Maintenance Tips

Portable chargers are low-maintenance, but a few habits keep them in top shape:

• Store the charger in a dry, temperature-controlled place (avoid leaving it in a hot trunk).
• Inspect the cable and connectors for wear every few months.
• Clean the J1772 connector with a dry cloth if it gets dusty.

Where and How to Use a Portable Charger: Practical Tips for Chevy Volt Owners

Finding 240V Outlets on the Go

Level 1 chargers work anywhere, but for faster charging, you’ll need a 240V outlet. Here’s where to look:

• Home: Dryer, oven, or welder outlets (common in garages).
• Public Spaces: RV parks, campgrounds, and some hotels (call ahead to confirm).
• Workplaces: Many offices have 240V outlets in parking lots.
• Hardware Stores: Lowe’s and Home Depot often have outdoor 240V outlets for customers.

Pro Tip: Use apps like PlugShare to find public 240V outlets near you. I’ve used it to charge at a friend’s cabin, a hardware store, and even a coffee shop’s outdoor outlet.

Charging Etiquette and Best Practices

• Ask Permission: Don’t assume you can use someone’s outlet without asking.
• Don’t Block Access: Park so others can reach the outlet if needed.
• Label Your Charger: Add a tag with your name and phone number in case it’s moved.
• Use a Timer: If charging overnight, set a timer to avoid overcharging (though most chargers auto-stop at 100%).

Final Thoughts: Which Chevy Volt Portable Electric Car Charger Should You Buy?

After testing these chargers, my top pick is the ChargePoint Home Flex for its balance of speed, features, and reliability. But your perfect match depends on your needs:

• Best Budget: Grizzl-E Smart (~$450)
• Best for Travel: MUSTART 32A (~$350)
• Best for Daily Use: ChargePoint Home Flex (~$600)
• Best for Heavy Use: ClipperCreek HCS-40 (~$700)

Remember, a Chevy Volt portable electric car charger isn’t just a backup—it’s a tool that gives you freedom. Whether you’re charging at a campground, a friend’s house, or a rest stop, the right portable charger ensures you’re never left stranded. So take your time, compare the options, and invest in one that fits your lifestyle. Your future self (and your Volt) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best portable electric car charger for a Chevy Volt?

The best Chevy Volt portable electric car charger options balance affordability, charging speed, and durability. Top picks include the OEM GM 120V charger and aftermarket Level 1/2 combos like the MUSTART or BougeRV models.

Can I use a portable charger with my Chevy Volt for road trips?

Yes, a portable EV charger is ideal for road trips, letting you recharge at hotels, campsites, or public outlets. Just ensure it’s compatible with your Volt’s J1772 inlet and offers Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V) flexibility.

How long does the Chevy Volt portable electric car charger take to charge?

A Level 1 (120V) portable charger adds about 4-6 miles per hour, while a Level 2 (240V) unit delivers 20-30 miles per hour. Full charges range from 10-12 hours (Level 1) to 4-6 hours (Level 2).

Are portable chargers safe for the Chevy Volt’s battery?

Absolutely—reputable Chevy Volt portable electric car chargers include safety features like overheat, overcurrent, and surge protection. Stick to UL-certified models to avoid battery damage.

Do I need a special adapter for my Chevy Volt portable charger?

Most portable chargers come with a standard J1772 connector, which fits the Volt. For Level 2 charging, you may need a NEMA 14-50 adapter if using a 240V outlet (like a dryer plug).

What’s the difference between OEM and third-party portable chargers for the Chevy Volt?

OEM chargers (like GM’s) are reliable but pricier, while third-party options offer similar performance at lower costs. Both work safely, but third-party brands often add features like longer cords or LED screens.