The Volt is perfectly happy to run on gas only - in fact, some of the GE fleet cars were run on gas only for the whole three year period (because GE gave drivers a gas card paid by corporate, but didn't reimburse electricity.)This might be the incorrect forum so I apologize in advance if it is. I'm looking at 2012-2014 Volts because they are low mileage (30k) and they are cheap $12-15k.
But here's my dilemma. I live in an apartment that does not have a garage but covered parking. As such there's no electrical outlet to charge my car. I have a 35 mile (one way) commute to college. They do have charging facilities but only about 4 of them and they are often full even though there's a 4hr time limit.
Of my commute, 30 miles is highway driving at varying speeds. If I'm lucky 15-20 miles is at highway speeds or at least between 45-65mph.
I assume driving on the gas motor to charge the electric is not ideal and I may be better off with a Prius? Given my 70 mile commute 3 times per week and my situation as outlined above do you think the Volt is a right choice for me?
Having said that, if you don't expect to be in a position to charge the car regularly at any point in your ownership period, then most of the 400 pound battery pack is wasted for you. We may be somewhat biased, but I think most people here believe the Volt is a much better car to drive than the Prius, even on Gas (tight handling/steering, better acceleration and response.) The Prius is larger on the inside, and I'm not sure how the used prices line up these days.
I'd suggest driving both, and deciding what suits you. Plugging in is certainly a big part of the Volt value equation, but not necessary.