Overview
Chevrolet has expanded its electric vehicle lineup for 2022 by introducing the SUV-inspired Bolt EUV (Electric Utility Vehicle), which offers a more spacious cabin than the Bolt hatchback as well as more rugged exterior styling. Under the hood is a 200-hp electric motor that’s juiced by a 65.0-kWh battery pack said to deliver up to 250 miles of driving range per charge. When the Bolt EUV hits the market later this year, it will find stiff competition in the form of other EV SUVs including the Hyundai Kona Electric, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, and the Tesla Model Y. Chevrolet is banking on the EUV’s futuristic styling, affordable starting price, and available semi-autonomous driving system to rise to the top of the burgeoning EV market segment.
What’s New for 2022?
The Bolt EUV is a brand-new model for Chevrolet. It will be sold alongside the redesigned Bolt hatchback when it goes on sale in summer 2021.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
At first, only a base model and a more expensive Launch Edition trim will be offered. For buyers seeking the latest and greatest, the Launch Edition will be the way to go as it includes General Motors’ Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving mode as well as a light-up charge port, a sunroof, and a unique wheel design.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All Bolt EUVs come with the same powertrain: a 200-hp electric motor and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive isn’t an option. Acceleration should be perky thanks to the instantaneous power delivery that’s inherent to electric motors. Regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving while recapturing energy to help extend the Bolt EUV’s range. We haven’t had a chance to drive the new Bolt EUV yet, but when we do we’ll update this story with driving impressions.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
All Bolt EUVs come with a 65.0-kWh battery pack, which Chevrolet estimates will deliver a 250-mile driving range on a full charge. That number is competitive with most other electric SUVs, although the Tesla Model Y comes with a larger battery pack that offers an estimated 326-mile range. The Bolt EUV can be charged on a standard 120-volt household outlet, but buyers will want to consider a 240-volt connection for quicker at-home juice-ups. The SUV is also capable of DC fast charging, which Chevy says can provide up to 95 miles of range in just 30 minutes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released fuel economy figures for the Bolt EUV yet and we haven’t had a chance to test the new SUV on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route. When we get the Bolt EUV to our office for testing, we’ll update this story with more details. For more information about the Bolt EUV’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Bolt EUV’s cabin appears stylish and nicely trimmed. A flat-bottom steering wheel and a push-button gear selector are standard on all models, and the seat upholstery sports a cheeky geometric pattern. The Bolt EUV is longer, wider, and taller than the regular Bolt hatchback, and its rear seat is the benefactor of that extra space, with rear-seat legroom growing by more than three inches. Despite the extra length, the EUV offers slightly less cargo space, but we expect most drivers will still find enough room for luggage, groceries, and other freight.
Infotainment and Connectivity
A digital gauge display and a large 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen with integrated climate controls are both standard. A host of connectivity features are available, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon’s Alexa, and an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot. The Bolt EUV can also communicate with its driver remotely via a smartphone app, which can be set up to provide charging alerts and to connect with nearby charging networks.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A set of basic driver assists will be standard, including automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, but buyers who want more advanced tech such as the Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system will need to pay extra. For more information about the Bolt EUV’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Chevrolet provides standard coverage limits for the Bolt’s electric-powertrain components. It also includes the first maintenance visit, but overall coverage doesn’t come close to that of Hyundai.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance covers one maintenance visit
- Electric components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles
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