Bolt offers two trims: LT and Premier. Premier will be the focus for this review.
As you know, fuel economy is measured in miles per charge, not gallons of gas. Bolt is provided by an electric motor that produces the equivalent of 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft torque. There is no engine noise and you can go from 0-60 in 6.5 seconds.
Bolt can travel up to 259 miles on a single charge because of its two regenerative charging systems. The first system recaptures energy when braking. Electricity is stored in a 60 kilowatt Lithium-ion battery post. The second uses the steering wheel-mounted paddle that allows the driver to initiate regeneration without even depressing the brake pedal. Bolt may very well outdistance competitors for all-over range.
Chevy engineers have designed a 1,000 pound battery pack that actually helps stabilize and improves mileage. It takes 9-hours to charge the battery on a 204 volt charge station. Drivers may also use fast charge, which takes about two hours.
For $750 you may purchase your own charging station, and can finance it with the car. Although you no longer get the government’s $1,850 federal tax credit, which expired last month, to remain competitive Chevy is offering generous discounts or cash incentives.
Photo: Chevrolet media
Fuel economy is estimated as city 127 MPGe or highway 108 MPGe. Bolt has a roomy interior with heated leather appointed driver and passenger seats. 60/40 rear fold-down are heated as well. The steering wheel is leather wrapped and heated, while the steering column tilts and is telescopic. The armrests are a little narrow, but ambient lighting is welcome.
The Driver Infotainment Center is 8-inches with a diagonal multi-color display, while the Infotainment System is 10.2 inches diagonal touchscreen. Additional features include Bluetooth Audio Streaming, voice command pass through to phone, Audio and Apple and CarPlay capabilities and 2 UBS Ports, and auxiliary input jack. The 7-speaker Bose Media fills the cabin with musical sunshine, distilling a perfect attitude. All the above are standard features as well as the Surround Vision 360-degree camera.
Photo: Chevrolet media
Bolt rests comfortably on 17-inch Ultra bright machine painted aluminum wheels and all season tires. Features include daytime running lights, LED outside heated mirrors and roof rack and side rails, Rear Park Assist, pedestrian safety signal and rear camera mirror. All standard!
Bolt has an independent front suspension and a semi-independent rear suspension, allowing for a quiet and comfortable ride. The rigid chassis aids in quick responsive handling. Stability is excellent in the curve, allowing for fun on winding narrow roads. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price $41,020.
Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Basic Warranty.
5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
8-year/100,000-mile battery. A thermal Management Systems: A charging System and Electric Drive Component Warranty.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column for several media outlets. He may be reached at Texas Hill Country or [email protected].
