How Much Is the Chevy Volt Electric Car A Complete Price Breakdown

The Chevy Volt electric car starts at $33,995, offering a compelling blend of electric efficiency and gas-powered range, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious drivers seeking flexibility. With federal tax credits up to $7,500 and state incentives, the effective price can drop below $26,500, delivering exceptional value for a plug-in hybrid with advanced tech and 53 miles of all-electric range.

Key Takeaways

• Chevy Volt starts at $33,995—competitive for its plug-in hybrid class.
• Federal tax credits up to $4,000 reduce effective ownership cost.
• Fuel savings offset higher upfront cost within 3–5 years of driving.
• Trim levels affect pricing—Premier adds premium features for $3,000+.
• Used Volts offer value with prices from $15,000 for 2019 models.

How Much Is the Chevy Volt Electric Car? A Complete Price Breakdown

So, you’re thinking about going electric—or at least *partially* electric. You’ve probably heard about the Chevy Volt, and like many curious drivers, your first question is: how much is the Chevy Volt electric car? I get it. You’re not just looking for a number; you want to know if it’s worth your hard-earned money. Maybe you’re picturing yourself zipping through city traffic on silent electric power, then hitting the highway without that nagging “low battery” panic. That’s the magic of the Volt: it’s not just an electric car, it’s a hybrid that *thinks* like one.

When I first started researching the Volt, I remember feeling overwhelmed. Was it a plug-in hybrid? An EV with training wheels? And why did prices seem to vary so much? After digging through dealership listings, incentives, and real-world ownership costs, I realized the answer isn’t a single price tag. It’s a story—one that includes MSRP, tax credits, fuel savings, and even how you drive. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Chevy Volt’s price, from the sticker shock to the long-term value. Think of it as a friendly chat over coffee, with no sales pitch—just honest insights to help you decide if the Volt fits your budget and lifestyle.

Understanding the Chevy Volt: More Than Just an Electric Car

Before we dive into numbers, let’s clear up a common confusion: the Chevy Volt isn’t a fully electric car like a Tesla or a Nissan Leaf. It’s a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). This means it has both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. The electric motor powers the car for daily commutes, while the gas engine kicks in when the battery runs low—giving you the best of both worlds.

How the Volt Works: Electric-First, Gas-Second

The Volt’s “electric-first” design is its biggest selling point. Here’s how it works:

• All-electric mode: You plug it in overnight (or at a charging station), and the Volt runs on battery power for 50–60 miles (depending on the model year). No gas used. Perfect for most daily commutes.

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• Extended-range mode: Once the battery is depleted, the 1.5L gasoline engine acts as a generator, powering the electric motor. This gives you a total range of 400+ miles—no range anxiety.
• Regenerative braking: Every time you slow down, the car captures energy to recharge the battery slightly. It’s like getting a tiny “refund” on your energy usage.

For example, if your round-trip commute is 40 miles, you’ll likely never use gas during the week. But if you take a weekend road trip, the gas engine seamlessly takes over. It’s like having a backup plan for your backup plan.

Generations of the Volt: What Changed?

The Volt had two generations (2011–2015 and 2016–2019), and the price and features evolved significantly:

• First Gen (2011–2015): Smaller battery (16 kWh), ~35–40 miles electric range, older infotainment system. Lower starting price but less efficient.
• Second Gen (2016–2019): Larger battery (18.4 kWh), ~50–60 miles electric range, updated interior, better tech, and improved fuel economy. Slightly higher MSRP but better value long-term.

Knowing which generation you’re looking at is crucial because the price difference can be thousands of dollars. A 2013 Volt might cost $8,000, while a 2019 could be $15,000—even in the used market.

Chevy Volt Pricing: MSRP, Used Prices, and Trim Levels

Now, let’s tackle the big question: how much is the Chevy Volt electric car? The answer depends on whether you’re buying new (when it was available) or used, and which trim level you choose.

Original MSRP (When New)

During its production run (2011–2019), the Volt was offered in a few trim levels. Here’s a snapshot of the original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the second generation (2016–2019), which are the most sought-after models today:

• Volt LT: $33,220 (base model)
• Volt Premier: $37,570 (top trim with leather, premium audio, safety features)

Note: The first-gen Volt started around $31,645, but it’s rare to find a new one today. Most buyers will be looking at used models.

Current Used Market Prices (2024)

Since the Volt was discontinued in 2019, the market is entirely used. Prices vary by year, condition, and mileage, but here’s a realistic range:

• 2011–2013: $6,000–$10,000 (higher mileage, older tech)
• 2014–2015: $9,000–$13,000 (better battery life, improved efficiency)
• 2016–2017: $12,000–$16,000 (best balance of price and features)
• 2018–2019: $15,000–$19,000 (lowest mileage, updated tech, longest electric range)

Pro tip: Always check the vehicle history report. A Volt with a clean title, no accidents, and regular maintenance will hold its value better. Also, look for models with the “Comfort & Convenience” package (heated seats, remote start) or “Driver Confidence” package

Trim Level Differences: Is the Premier Worth It?

The Premier trim costs about $4,000 more than the LT when new, and that gap narrows in the used market (~$2,000–$3,000). Is it worth it? Consider these differences:

• Interior: Leather seats (LT has cloth), heated steering wheel, ambient lighting.
• Tech: Bose audio, wireless phone charging, 8-inch touchscreen (LT has 7-inch).
• Safety: Forward collision alert, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking (LT has basic safety features).

If you value comfort and safety, the Premier is a smart upgrade. But if you’re on a tight budget, the LT still delivers the core Volt experience—great electric range and fuel efficiency.

Tax Credits, Incentives, and Hidden Savings

Here’s where the Volt’s price gets *interesting*. The sticker price is just the beginning. There are ways to reduce your out-of-pocket cost—sometimes dramatically.

Federal Tax Credit: Up to $7,500 (But There’s a Catch)

When the Volt was new, it qualified for a federal tax credit of $7,500. But there’s a catch: this credit is non-refundable and only applies if you buy the car new. Since the Volt is no longer in production, this credit is only relevant if you bought it between 2011 and 2019.

However, if you’re buying a used Volt, you might still benefit from a state-level incentive. Some states (like California, Colorado, and Oregon) offer rebates for used EVs and PHEVs. For example:

• California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP): Up to $1,000 for used PHEVs (income limits apply).
• Colorado’s EV Tax Credit: 30% of the purchase price, up to $4,000 (used vehicles included).

Check your state’s DMV or energy office website for current programs. These can slash your effective price.

Fuel and Maintenance Savings: The Long-Term Value

This is where the Volt shines. Let’s say you drive 12,000 miles per year:

• Electric driving: 50 miles/day on electricity (18,250 miles/year). At $0.12/kWh, that’s about $330/year.
• Gas driving: 20 miles/day on gas (7,300 miles/year). At 42 mpg and $3.50/gallon, that’s about $610/year.
• Total annual fuel cost: ~$940 (vs. $1,400 for a 30 mpg gas car).

Maintenance is cheaper too. No oil changes, fewer brake replacements (thanks to regenerative braking), and less engine wear. Over 5 years, you could save $3,000–$4,000 in fuel and maintenance alone.

Home Charging: The Hidden Cost (or Savings)

You’ll need to charge the Volt, but it’s not as expensive as you think. The Volt has a 3.3 kW onboard charger, so:

• Level 1 charging: Uses a standard 120V outlet. Takes 10–16 hours for a full charge. Free if you already have an outlet in your garage.
• Level 2 charging: 240V outlet (like a dryer plug). Takes 4–5 hours. Installation costs $500–$1,200 (but some states offer rebates).

Most Volt owners stick with Level 1—it’s slow, but if you charge overnight, it’s enough. Only upgrade to Level 2 if you have a long commute or want faster top-ups.

Real-World Ownership: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Let’s get real: the “price” of a car isn’t just what you pay upfront. It’s what you spend over 5–10 years. The Volt’s total cost of ownership (TCO) includes depreciation, insurance, repairs, and more.

Depreciation: How Much Value Does the Volt Lose?

The Volt holds its value surprisingly well for a discontinued model. A 2016 Volt might lose 40–45% of its value in 5 years, compared to 50–60% for many gas cars. Why?

• Strong demand from eco-conscious buyers.
• No new Volt competition (unlike the Prius Prime, which replaced it).
• Reliability: The Volt has a reputation for low repair costs and long battery life.

Example: A 2016 Volt with 60,000 miles might sell for $14,000 today. A similar-year Honda Accord with the same mileage might sell for $12,000—but with higher fuel costs.

Insurance and Repairs: What to Expect

Insurance for the Volt is slightly higher than average (about 10–15% more than a comparable gas car) because:

• Repairs for electric components can be more expensive.
• Higher repair costs for advanced safety features.

But repairs are rare. The Volt’s powertrain is simple, and GM offers an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery and electric components. Most owners report only routine maintenance (tires, cabin filters, etc.).

Resale Value: Can You Get Your Money Back?

If you buy a 2017–2019 Volt today, you can expect to resell it for 60–70% of its current value in 3–5 years—especially if you keep it well-maintained. Compare that to a gas car, which might lose 50% of its value in the same time. The Volt’s electric range and low operating costs make it attractive to second-hand buyers.

Alternatives to the Chevy Volt: How It Compares

The Volt isn’t the only plug-in hybrid out there. How does it stack up against the competition?

Chevy Volt vs. Toyota Prius Prime

The Prius Prime is the Volt’s biggest rival. Here’s how they compare:

• Electric range: Volt wins (50–60 miles vs. 25–40 miles for the Prime).
• Price: Prius Prime starts around $28,000 (new), but used prices are similar to the Volt.
• Fuel efficiency: Prius Prime gets 54 mpg (vs. 42 mpg for the Volt) when running on gas.
• Interior: Volt feels more premium; Prius is more utilitarian.

Choose the Volt if you want more electric range and a nicer interior. Pick the Prius Prime if you prioritize gas mileage and reliability.

Chevy Volt vs. Ford Escape PHEV

The Escape PHEV is a newer option (2020–present). Pros and cons:

• Electric range: 37 miles (less than the Volt).
• Price: $35,000+ (new), but federal tax credits apply.
• Space: Escape has more cargo room and backseat space.

The Escape is better for families, but the Volt wins on electric performance and driving dynamics.

Chevy Volt vs. Full EVs (Like the Nissan Leaf)

If you’re considering a full EV, the Volt’s hybrid nature might feel like a compromise. But remember:

• The Volt eliminates range anxiety.
• You can drive it anywhere, anytime—no need to find charging stations.
• It’s cheaper than most new EVs (even after incentives).

For many drivers, the Volt is the perfect “gateway” to electrification.

Data Table: Chevy Volt Pricing at a Glance (2024)

Model Year	Trim	Original MSRP	Used Price Range (2024)	Electric Range	Fuel Efficiency (Gas)
2011–2013	LT	$31,645–$33,000	$6,000–$10,000	35–40 miles	37 mpg
2014–2015	LT/Premier	$34,000–$38,000	$9,000–$13,000	38–42 miles	40 mpg
2016–2017	LT/Premier	$33,220–$37,570	$12,000–$16,000	53–55 miles	42 mpg
2018–2019	LT/Premier	$34,000–$38,000	$15,000–$19,000	53 miles	42 mpg

Final Thoughts: Is the Chevy Volt Worth the Price?

So, how much is the Chevy Volt electric car? The answer is: it depends on you. If you’re a city driver with a short commute, the Volt’s 50+ miles of electric range could mean you’ll rarely touch gas. If you’re budget-conscious, a used 2016–2017 model offers incredible value—especially with fuel savings. And if you’re not ready to go fully electric, the Volt’s hybrid system gives you the flexibility to drive anywhere, anytime.

But it’s not perfect. The backseat is tight, charging is slow, and finding a well-maintained used model takes effort. Still, for many drivers, the Volt’s blend of efficiency, comfort, and technology makes it a standout choice.

My advice? Test drive a Volt. See how it feels to glide silently through town, then hit the highway without a second thought. Calculate your annual fuel savings. Check for state incentives. And remember: the “price” isn’t just what you pay—it’s what you save over time. The Chevy Volt might not be the cheapest car out there, but for the right driver, it’s one of the smartest buys on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Chevy Volt electric car in 2024?

The 2024 Chevy Volt starts at $33,500 for the base LT trim, while the Premier trim retails for $38,500 (MSRP). Pricing may vary based on dealer incentives, tax credits, or regional fees.

What factors affect the price of a Chevy Volt?

The total cost of a Chevy Volt depends on trim level, optional packages (like the Driver Confidence Package), and available federal/state EV incentives. Additional costs like destination fees (~$1,395) and local taxes also impact the final price.

Is the Chevy Volt eligible for tax credits, and how does that impact its price?

Yes, the Chevy Volt qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, which can significantly reduce the effective price. Some states offer additional rebates, further lowering out-of-pocket costs.

How much is the Chevy Volt compared to other plug-in hybrids?

The Chevy Volt is competitively priced against rivals like the Toyota Prius Prime (starting at ~$28,000) and Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid (~$27,000). Its higher price reflects its longer electric range and premium features in upper trims.

Does the Chevy Volt’s price include charging equipment?

No, the MSRP doesn’t include a Level 2 home charger, but GM offers installation partnerships for buyers. A standard 120V portable charger is included for Level 1 charging.

Are there financing or lease options to lower the Chevy Volt’s upfront cost?

Chevy often provides special financing (e.g., 0% APR for 60 months) or lease deals (e.g., $299/month for 36 months). These promotions can make the Volt more affordable upfront, depending on creditworthiness and location.