2013 Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - Page 189

Driving and Operating Drive Mode and PRNDL Selection Use Normal Mode when possible. Sport Mode provides more responsive acceleration than Normal Mode but can reduce efficiency. Use Mountain Mode prior to climbing long, steep grades in mountainous areas. Be sure to engage Mountain Mode before starting to climb. Mountain Mode reduces electric range and power but may be needed to maintain speeds above 96 km/h (60 mph) when climbing grades of 5% or greater. Use L (Low) in heavy stop-and-go traffic or when traveling downhill. L (Low) requires less brake pedal application and provides a controlled, efficient way to slow the vehicle down. 9-3 Climate Setting Using the heat and air conditioning systems decreases the energy available for electric driving. Optimal energy efficiency is achieved with the heat, air conditioning, and fan turned off. Less energy is used at low fan speeds. When using the fan: . Use remote start to heat or cool the interior when the vehicle is plugged in to maximize the electric range by utilizing electricity from the electrical outlet. Engine Assisted Heating operation, if equipped, can be personalized. In hot weather, avoid parking in direct sunlight or use sunshades inside the vehicle. Turn off the front and rear window defog/defrost when they are no longer needed. Avoid driving with the windows open at highway speeds. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑52. Fan Only is the most energy efficient climate setting as long as 0 is not selected. ECO is for moderate air conditioning and heater operation and is the next most energy efficient setting as long as 0 is not selected. Comfort provides the most comfort but is the least energy efficient. . . Vehicle Charging/Maintenance Charging Keep the vehicle plugged in, even when fully charged, to keep the battery temperature ready for the next drive. This is important when outside temperatures are extremely hot or cold. Use the auto heated seat feature instead of climate settings. Heating the seat uses less energy than heating the vehicle interior.