Note: For more from Alexandra, visit the "Ask Alexandra" tab on the Chevrolet Volt Facebook page.

After my blog ruminating on whether it is more efficient to drive in D, L or some combination thereof, my friend Mark Swain, Customer Advisory Board member and a proponent of Low, suggested I drive for a week in L. Ian groaned when I told him of my scientific exploration, as we both only use the regenerative power of L to slow the Volt, and prefer the coast-ability of D once we are up to speed.

However, in the name of efficiency, I was determined to find out for myself which driving method could get me the most range. At first it was painful to keep my foot constantly on the accelerator when moving forward. In D, I can use the tapping method – taking pressure off the go pedal when the Volt is up to speed and allowing the forward momentum of electric drive to propel me, tapping lightly to maintain velocity only when the vehicle slows. The car feels so light when I drive this way!  Driving in L feels too similar to the gas car experience.

I did get used to it after a few days, and L didn’t feel like it pulled the car back so much. It was definitely not as efficient, however.  It was not a big change, about 3 miles less per charge, but enough for me to stop the experiment after 5 days, secure in knowing that my D/L driving is so far the most efficient.

Next experiment: Sport Mode. My Volt driving pals say it is so fun and that I don’t have to lose efficiency!  Ian also loves it. Next week I will be Sporty instead of Low… sounds better already…

Alexandra Paul is a longtime electric vehicle advocate, actress and former EV1 driver. She is working with Chevrolet to educate consumers about EVs and the Volt. Full disclosure, Chevrolet is paying her for her time, but her opinions will always be hers.

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