410 kilometres range: Chevrolet announces first details about the new Bolt
The first generation of the Chevrolet Bolt was launched in 2017 and was one of the first modern electric cars from the USA to be produced in large numbers. In Europe, the model was sold under the name Opel Ampera-e until 2021. In the USA, the Chevy was discontinued at the end of 2023.
At the same time, the General Motors subsidiary also discontinued the technically closely related crossover counterpart, the Bolt EUV. The discontinuation of the two models drew considerable criticism, as they were two of the most popular and affordable electric models in North America. This was a significant setback for the ramp-up of e-mobility in the United States.
Chevrolet has also recognised this, which is why the Bolt is to get a successor after a break of around three years. It is scheduled to be introduced in the 2027 model year. The car manufacturer has now released the first details about the second generation at an event to which owners of the first Bolt were invited. This will be the Group’s fifteenth EV series, which will be built in Kansas City and priced in the entry-level segment.
Major advances in charging performance
According to GM, the range is expected to be 255 miles, or 410 kilometres. In the first edition, the maximum range according to US standards was 247 miles, or 397 kilometres. Charging from 10 to 80 per cent is expected to take 26 minutes at a suitable charging station – the maximum charging power is expected to be 150 kW, around three times higher than before.
At DC charging stations, the first-generation battery could be charged at a modest 55 kW. GM is relying on LFP batteries for the new Bolt – the durable and cheaper-to-produce cells will initially be imported from China, but will later be manufactured in the US.
Chevrolet has also already commented on the prices – the car is expected to start at $29,990, or around €25,800, when it launches. A slimmed-down LT version is to follow later, which will be around $1,000 cheaper. It has already been announced that the Bolt LT’s electric motor will have an output of 210 kW.
Performance data for the launch version, on the other hand, has not yet been published. The second-generation Bolt is likely to be the most affordable new electric car in the United States. Even the Nissan Leaf, which is already quite attractively priced, costs slightly more. At a time when all tax incentives for electric cars have been scrapped by the current US administration, it is precisely these kinds of models that are needed to support EV sales figures.
This article was first published by Elias Holdenried for electrive’s German edition
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