2013 Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - Page 207

Driving and Operating 9-21 Parking over Things That Burn Electric Vehicle Operating Modes System Operation This vehicle is an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV). It uses an electric propulsion system to drive the vehicle at all times. Electricity is the vehicle's primary source of energy, while gasoline is the secondary source. The vehicle has two modes of operation: Electric and Extended Range. In both modes, the vehicle is propelled by its electric drive unit. It converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the wheels. The vehicle's performance remains the same in either mode. See Driving for Better Energy Efficiency on page 9‑2. Electric Mode In Electric Mode, the vehicle does not use fuel or produce tailpipe emissions. During this primary mode, the vehicle is powered by electrical energy stored in the high voltage battery. The vehicle can operate in this mode until the battery has reached a low charge. There are some conditions when the battery charge is high enough to provide Electric Mode operation, but the engine still runs. They are: . . { WARNING Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under the vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn. Cold ambient temperatures. Hot or cold high voltage battery temperatures. The hood being open or not completely closed and latched. Certain high voltage battery fault conditions. Engine Maintenance Mode or Fuel Maintenance Mode being run. . . .