The Chevrolet Bolt EV advances the viability of electric vehicles to the forefront, taking the lead in terms of range and affordability. The 2017 Bolt conquers range anxiety with an EPA estimated range of 238 miles per charge at a base cost of roughly $30,000 after a full federal tax credit application. Okay, admittedly the Tesla Model S delivers a higher range, but also comes at a considerably higher cost.
WHAT’S NEW
The Chevrolet Bolt’s design is derived from a clean sheet approach in the form of a small wagon with crossover-like proportions. The drive system’s propulsion comes from a single, high capacity electric motor that is capable of generating up to 266 lb-ft. of torque (360 Nm) while producing 200 horsepower (150 kW), which combined with its 7.05:1 final drive ratio helps to propel it from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Motive force reaches the front driving wheels, controlled by Chevrolet’s first Electronic Precision Shift system – a shift and park-by-wire system transmitted through electronic signals. The electronic shifter takes up less space than a conventional mechanical system, yielding additional interior space and an enhanced cabin layout.
The battery pack and electric drive components of the Bolt are covered by an impressive eight-year/100,000-mile warranty, which minimizes the concern or worry of owning a high-tech EV. It is ultimately a very capable alternative to traditional gas-powered vehicles.
There are two levels of trim offered for the Chevrolet Bolt EV – the base LT and more upscale Premiere. My test vehicle was the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt Premiere EV, which came with a base sticker of $40,905. (base price comes to approx. $30,000 after full Federal tax credit) and an as tested price of $43,905 before federal or state tax credits.
PERFORMANCE
Driving the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt Premiere EV can morph into a game-like experience. A game wherein the driver does everything possible to achieve an ever-higher range, while minimizing the consumption of stored energy. It is actually the first mass-market electric car to offer in excess of 200 mile on a single charge.
Acceleration is quick off the line, as with all electric vehicles, even at full passenger capacity. Cornering is essentially flat, rolling on its 17-inch alloy wheels and tires. There’s only a minimal whine from the electric motor, and the brake sensation is consistent, without any noticeable transition between regenerative and friction braking. There are two distinct drive modes. The normal Drive mode on the “gear selector” lever behaves much like an automatic transmission equipped car—even with an idle creep when stopped. Speaking of stopping, the alternative Low range increases regenerative braking considerably, slowing the car to a complete stop without the use of the brakes.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The Bolt appears to be smaller than it actually is, with its claimed five-passenger capacity. The cargo bay is deep, with a false floor that matching the level of the fold-flat rear seat back, that hides a storage compartment beneath. it slides out, adding several additional inches of load height. The Bolt’s spacious greenhouse serves up panoramic visibility along with upright SUV-like seating. The instrument panel is a “floating” affair, which along with the connected multipurpose center console, offers wireless phone charging and a large compartment for tablet storage.
Safety features abound, including: ten standard air bags, a standard rear vision camera and optionally available active safety features such as Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Alert and Forward Pedestrian Alert.
The Bolt shines in connectivity features including EV-specific navigation capability that searches out routes to aid in maximizing range and providing information on charging station locations. The standard Bolt comes with high-end gear such as a 10.2-inch touch screen, parental controls for teen drivers, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – two systems that blend your smartphone’s functions and apps into the car’s infotainment offerings. Active safety systems (like parking sensors and blind spot alerts) are also available, and Bluetooth low energy seamlessly connects a smartphone to the vehicle as the owner approaches. There’s a large 10.2-inch diagonal color touch-screen featuring a “flip-board” operation.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV Premiere
- Base Price: $40,905. (base price approx $30,000 after full Federal tax credit), as tested: $43,905. Before federal or state tax credits.
- Engine Type and Size: Permanent magnetic drive single motor and gearset with rechargeable energy storage system comprising multiple linked modules. Lithium-Ion battery- 288 cells 60kWh – 960 pounds
- Horsepower (bhp): 200 – 150kW
- Torque (ft./ lbs.): 266
- Transmission: Electronic Precision Shift (electronic transmission selector with “L”- Low mode for regenerative braking)
- Drive Train: Transversely mounted front motor / Front-wheel drive
- Suspension: StabiliTrak stability system
- Front – Independent MacPherson strut-type with direct acting solid stabilizer bar
- Rear – Semi-independent, compound crank (torsion beam) with coil springs
- Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes (vented front) electro-hydraulic, with ABS and partially regenerative braking plus Regen On Demand steering wheel paddle and dynamic rear brake proportioning
- Tires: Michelin Energy 215/50 R17 A/S mounted on alloy wheels
- Wheelbase: 102.4 inches
- Length Overall: 164.0 inches
- Width: 69.5 inches
- Height: 62.9 inches
- Curb Weight: 3,580 lbs.
- Turning Circle: 35.4 ft.
- EPA Mileage Estimates: 128 mpge city / 110 mpge highway – 119 MPGe
- 0 – 60 mph: 6.5 seconds
