Price of Chevy Volt Electric Car What You Need to Know

The 2023 Chevy Volt electric car starts at an affordable $33,995, offering a compelling balance of efficiency, tech, and value in the plug-in hybrid market. With federal tax credits potentially slashing the price by up to $7,500, it’s a smart pick for eco-conscious drivers seeking cost-effective performance. Don’t miss the trims and features that deliver even more bang for your buck!

Key Takeaways

• Compare trims: Choose between LT, Premier, and limited editions for best value.
• Factor incentives: Federal and state rebates can lower the price by thousands.
• Lease deals: Explore leasing options for lower monthly payments and flexibility.
• Resale value: Expect strong resale due to reliability and hybrid appeal.
• Charging costs: Save long-term with lower electricity vs. gas expenses.
• Used models: Consider certified pre-owned for significant upfront savings.

The Price of Chevy Volt Electric Car: What You Need to Know

The price of Chevy Volt electric car has long been a topic of interest for eco-conscious drivers and tech-savvy car enthusiasts alike. As one of the pioneering plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) to hit the mainstream market, the Chevrolet Volt offered a compelling blend of electric efficiency and gasoline-powered range—without the dreaded “range anxiety” that plagues many all-electric vehicles (EVs). Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned EV driver, understanding the pricing structure, value proposition, and long-term costs of the Chevy Volt is essential before making a purchase decision.

Introduced in 2011 and discontinued after the 2019 model year, the Chevy Volt carved out a unique niche in the automotive world. It wasn’t just a hybrid; it was a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) designed to run primarily on electricity for daily commutes while seamlessly switching to a gas-powered generator for longer trips. This dual-power approach made the Volt a practical choice for urban drivers and suburban families alike. Over its two generations (2011–2015 and 2016–2019), the Volt evolved with better battery capacity, enhanced technology, and refined styling—all of which impacted its pricing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the price of Chevy Volt electric car, including MSRP, trims, depreciation, tax incentives, and long-term ownership costs.

Understanding the Chevy Volt’s Pricing Across Model Years

The price of Chevy Volt electric car varied significantly between its first and second generations, reflecting improvements in battery technology, interior quality, and standard features. Let’s explore how pricing evolved over the years and what you can expect from each generation.

First Generation (2011–2015): The Pioneering Years

The original Chevy Volt launched in late 2010 as a 2011 model with a starting MSRP of $40,280. This price included a $7,500 federal tax credit, which brought the effective price down to around $32,780 for qualifying buyers. At the time, this was competitive for a plug-in hybrid, though still higher than conventional hybrids like the Toyota Prius.

• 2011–2012: Base MSRP: $40,280–$41,000. Key features included a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery, 35–38 miles of all-electric range, and a 1.4L gasoline engine for extended driving.
• 2013–2015: Slight price increases to $40,900–$43,200. GM improved the battery chemistry (from manganese spinel to blended cathode), boosting reliability and slightly increasing electric range to 38 miles.
• Trim Levels: The base LT and top-tier Premium trim offered leather, premium audio, and navigation. The Premium model could push the price above $45,000 before incentives.

For example, a 2014 Chevy Volt Premium with options like a sunroof and upgraded wheels could cost around $46,500 before the federal tax credit. However, savvy buyers who timed their purchase during end-of-year incentives often found discounts of $2,000–$5,000.

Second Generation (2016–2019): Enhanced Value and Efficiency

With the 2016 redesign, Chevrolet addressed many of the first-gen Volt’s shortcomings—most notably, the electric range. The second-generation Volt featured a larger 18.4 kWh battery, boosting all-electric range to 53 miles on a single charge. The starting MSRP was $33,995, a significant drop from the first generation, thanks to improved battery production costs and federal incentives.

• 2016: Base MSRP: $33,995. The new model was lighter, more efficient, and offered a more spacious rear seat.
• 2017–2018: Prices held steady at $33,220–$34,295. GM introduced new color options and minor tech upgrades.
• 2019: Final model year at $34,395. Despite being the last year, it retained strong value due to its advanced features and reliability.
• Trim Levels: The 2016+ Volt came in LT and Premier trims. The Premier trim added leather seats, heated steering wheel, Bose audio, and advanced safety features like lane-keep assist and automatic parking assist. A fully loaded 2019 Premier could reach $40,000 before incentives.

A practical example: A 2018 Chevy Volt Premier with the optional Driver Confidence Package (blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert) and a $7,500 federal tax credit brought the net cost to around $30,000—making it one of the most affordable premium PHEVs on the market.

Breaking Down the Total Cost of Ownership

When evaluating the price of Chevy Volt electric car, it’s crucial to look beyond the sticker price. Total cost of ownership (TCO) includes fuel, maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and tax incentives. Let’s analyze each component to understand the long-term value.

Fuel and Energy Costs: A Major Savings

The Volt’s plug-in hybrid system offers substantial fuel savings. With an all-electric range of 35–53 miles (depending on model year), most daily commutes (under 40 miles) can be completed without using a drop of gasoline.

• Electric Driving: Charging costs vary by region, but the average U.S. electricity rate is $0.14/kWh. Fully charging an 18.4 kWh battery costs about $2.58. For 53 miles, that’s $0.049 per mile.
• Gasoline Driving: When the battery depletes, the Volt switches to gas mode with 37–42 MPG. At $3.50/gallon, that’s $0.093 per mile.
• Combined Efficiency: For a driver who charges nightly and drives 50 miles/day (25 electric, 25 gas), the average cost is around $0.071 per mile, compared to $0.15–$0.20 for a conventional sedan.

Tip: Use a tool like the U.S. Department of Energy’s eGallon calculator to compare local electricity vs. gasoline costs. In states like California, where electricity is more expensive, the savings are still significant.

Maintenance and Repairs: Lower Than Average

Electric motors have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines (ICEs), leading to reduced maintenance. The Chevy Volt benefits from:

• No oil changes (only the gasoline generator needs oil, and it runs infrequently).
• Regenerative braking reduces wear on brake pads (last 2–3x longer than conventional cars).
• No transmission fluid changes (uses a single-speed electric drive).

According to RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Chevy Volt is $469, compared to $652 for the average vehicle. Major issues like battery degradation are rare—most 2016+ models still retain 80–90% capacity after 100,000 miles.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Depreciation is a critical factor. The first-gen Volt (2011–2015) depreciated rapidly—losing up to 60% of its value in 3 years—due to concerns about battery life and limited charging infrastructure. However, the second-gen Volt (2016–2019) holds value better:

• 2016 Volt: ~50% depreciation after 5 years (vs. 55–60% for most sedans).
• 2019 Volt: Still commands $18,000–$22,000 in 2024 (original MSRP: $34,395), a 40–50% retention rate.

Tip: Buy a 2017–2019 Volt in excellent condition with low mileage (under 60,000) for the best value. These models are past the steepest depreciation curve and still offer modern tech.

Tax Incentives and Rebates: Maximizing Your Savings

One of the most compelling aspects of the price of Chevy Volt electric car is the availability of federal and state incentives. These can dramatically reduce the upfront cost, making the Volt more accessible.

Federal Tax Credit: $7,500 (Until Phase-Out)

The Chevy Volt qualified for the full $7,500 federal tax credit under the U.S. Clean Vehicle Credit (IRC Section 30D). However, this credit began phasing out after GM sold 200,000 qualifying vehicles. For the Volt:

• 2011–2018: Full $7,500 credit available.
• 2019: Credit reduced to $1,875 (first quarter of phase-out).

Important: The tax credit is non-refundable—it only offsets your tax liability. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, you’ll get $5,000 back, not $7,500. To maximize the benefit, consider:

• Timing your purchase to align with a high-income year.
• Combining with state rebates (see below).
• Leasing (some states offer point-of-sale discounts).

State and Local Incentives

Many states offer additional rebates, tax exemptions, or perks:

• California: $1,000–$2,000 Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). Income limits apply.
• Colorado: $5,000 state tax credit (phased out in 2023, but retroactive claims possible).
• Maryland: $3,000 excise tax credit.
• Utility Incentives: Some power companies (e.g., PG&E, Con Edison) offer $500–$1,000 rebates for EV purchases or home charger installations.

Example: A 2018 Chevy Volt in California with the federal credit, CVRP rebate, and a utility incentive could reduce the effective price by $10,000+.

HOV Lane Access and Other Perks

In states like California, Washington, and Virginia, the Volt qualified for HOV lane access with a single occupant—saving time and fuel during commutes. Some cities also offered free parking or charging in municipal lots.

Comparing the Chevy Volt to Competing PHEVs and EVs

To assess the price of Chevy Volt electric car fairly, let’s compare it to other plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles in its class.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

Model (2019)	MSRP	Electric Range	MPG (Gas Mode)	Federal Credit	Net Effective Price (w/ credit)
Chevy Volt LT	$34,395	53 miles	42	$1,875	$32,520
Ford Fusion Energi	$35,730	26 miles	42	$4,588	$31,142
Toyota Prius Prime	$27,600	25 miles	54	$4,502	$23,098
Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in	$25,350	29 miles	52	$4,543	$20,807

While the Volt had a higher base price, its 53-mile electric range was unmatched in its class. For drivers who could charge daily, the Volt’s lower fuel costs offset the higher MSRP over time. The Prius Prime and Ioniq Plug-in offered better value for short-range users, but the Volt excelled in flexibility and performance.

All-Electric Vehicles (EVs)

For comparison, the 2019 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range started at $35,000 (before $1,875 credit) with 220 miles of range. While the Model 3 offered superior range and tech, it lacked the Volt’s gas backup—a dealbreaker for rural drivers or frequent road-trippers. The 2019 Nissan Leaf (150-mile range) started at $29,990, making it cheaper but less versatile.

Key Takeaways

• The Volt is ideal for commuters under 50 miles/day who want gas backup for longer trips.
• For budget-focused buyers, the Prius Prime or Ioniq Plug-in may offer better upfront value.
• For long-range needs, a used Tesla Model 3 or newer EV (e.g., Kia EV6) may be more practical.

Tips for Buying a Used or New Chevy Volt

Whether you’re shopping for a new 2019 model (rare but possible) or a used Volt, these tips will help you get the best price of Chevy Volt electric car.

New Purchase (2019 Model)

• Negotiate: Since the Volt was discontinued, dealers may offer discounts to clear inventory. Aim for $2,000–$4,000 off MSRP.
• Check Incentives: Confirm state/local rebates. Some 2019 models may still qualify for partial federal credit.
• Warranty: The 2019 Volt includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty. Ensure it’s transferable if buying used.

Used Purchase (2016–2019)

• Check Battery Health: Use the Volt’s built-in energy screen or a third-party OBD2 scanner to verify battery capacity. Look for models with 45+ miles of range.
• Service Records: Request records for coolant changes, brake inspections, and software updates. The Volt requires a coolant change every 100,000 miles.
• Price Ranges (2024):
  • 2016: $12,000–$16,000
  • 2017: $14,000–$18,000
  • 2018: $16,000–$20,000
  • 2019: $18,000–$22,000
• Private Sellers: Often offer 10–15% below dealer prices. Use platforms like CarGurus or Facebook Marketplace.

Charging Infrastructure

Ensure you have access to a Level 2 charger (240V). A home charger costs $500–$800 installed. Public charging is rarely needed due to the gas backup, but apps like PlugShare can help on longer trips.

Conclusion: Is the Chevy Volt Worth the Price?

The price of Chevy Volt electric car reflects its unique position as a bridge between traditional hybrids and all-electric vehicles. While the upfront cost is higher than some competitors, the Volt delivers exceptional value through:

• Lower fuel and maintenance costs over time.
• Strong resale value for 2016–2019 models.
• Tax incentives that can reduce the effective price by $5,000–$10,000.
• Unmatched flexibility with 53 miles of electric range and gas backup.

For the right buyer—someone who charges nightly, drives under 50 miles/day, and values reliability—the Chevy Volt remains a smart investment. Even in the used market, it outperforms most sedans in total cost of ownership. As EV technology advances, the Volt stands as a testament to Chevrolet’s early commitment to electrification. Whether you’re drawn to its efficiency, tech, or peace of mind, the Volt proves that sometimes, the best value isn’t just in the price tag—it’s in the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price of the Chevy Volt electric car?

The starting price of the Chevy Volt electric car typically ranges between $33,000 and $38,000, depending on the model year and trim level. This price may also vary based on regional incentives and available discounts.

Does the price of the Chevy Volt include federal tax credits?

The listed price of the Chevy Volt does not automatically include federal tax credits, but eligible buyers may qualify for up to $7,500 in U.S. federal incentives. These credits reduce your tax liability and effectively lower the out-of-pocket cost.

How does the Chevy Volt’s price compare to other plug-in hybrids?

The Chevy Volt’s price positions it competitively among plug-in hybrids like the Toyota Prius Prime and Honda Clarity, offering a longer all-electric range at a similar price point. Its combination of efficiency and affordability makes it a strong value in the segment.

Are there financing or lease options that affect the effective price of the Chevy Volt?

Yes, GM Financial and dealerships often offer special financing rates or lease deals that can significantly lower the effective price of the Chevy Volt. Monthly lease payments may start as low as $250, depending on promotions and down payments.

Has the price of the Chevy Volt changed since it was discontinued?

While the Chevy Volt was discontinued after the 2019 model year, used and certified pre-owned models maintain strong resale values, with prices often close to original MSRP. Market demand and battery condition heavily influence the current price of the Chevy Volt.

Can I get a lower price on a Chevy Volt through state or local incentives?

Yes, many states and utility providers offer additional rebates or incentives that can reduce the price of the Chevy Volt. For example, California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project may provide up to $2,000, further lowering the effective cost.