Mostly "One-Pedal" Driving Figured Out. But Is It Worth It?
Edmunds.com
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Mostly
Combing the Low driving mode with the regen paddle can help improve the 2016 Chevrolet Volt's efficiency. But whether it's worth it is another matter.
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The "D" vs "L" debate is non-stop on the Volt forums.
My own personal experience is that I can't see how "L" is more efficient in regular driving. I drive mostly city streets with zero bumper to bumper traffic. I know when a light will turn red and lift my foot from the accelerator pedal to start to gradually coast up to the light. I can do this from 2-3 tenths of a mile away. With single pedal driving, you have to lift your foot a bit, but the car still gets a throttle input, thus spending electrons. A full lift engages regenerative braking, thus slowing you more.
In heavy traffic, I agree with Dan Edmunds assessment that "L" slows the car sooner. I too, use "L" in those conditions.
My ELR had the paddles, and I enjoyed using them. It was like a game to try and execute a near stop using only the paddles. It annoyed passengers (usually my wife) but was endlessly entertaining. The ELR also had Adaptive Cruise Control, which was awesome in heavy traffic, as I could set it at a speed and the car would slow and accelerate as traffic moved along. If stopped, I'd have to reset the system by merely pushing on the accelerator.
I'm seriously considering a Bolt (need to sit in one first) and I'm happy to hear that it will offer regular "D" and single pedal "L". Due to where I live, I suspect I'll be using "D" mostly.