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- Highs Smooth electric motor with useful range, fun to drive, roomy cabin with lots of cargo space.
- Lows Slow charging from 110 volt outlets, balky infotainment system, interior design and materials don't measure up.
- Verdict The 2018 Chevrolet Volt EV has a peppy motor, handles well, and boasts generous cargo space for its size, demonstrating that EVs can make practical daily drivers.
Overview
As a reasonably priced all-electric vehicle with a highly livable 238-mile driving range, the Chevrolet Bolt EV has few direct competitors. It teams a powerful electric motor with a large-capacity battery pack that can be charged quickly at a public station via an optional fast-charging connection. Not only is the Bolt a convincing EV, it also does a good job of just being a car. It sports a perfectly usable—if cheap-looking—cabin with plenty of space for four adults, offers competitive cargo-hauling capability, and features high-tech infotainment and active safety features. Proof positive that daily driving duties can indeed be handed off to all-electric vehicles, the Bolt EV is a groundbreaking vehicle leading the charge against the automotive world’s dependence on internal-combustion engines.
What's New for 2018?
The Bolt EV is still in its infancy after debuting in 2017, so there are only minor changes for its second year. An automatically heated steering wheel is now part of the Comfort and Convenience package on the LT trim and is standard on the upscale Premier model. All Bolt EVs now come with revised sun visors that slide to provide more flexibility in blocking glare.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- LT: $37,495
- Premier: $41,780
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The Bolt EV’s electric motor delivers power smoothly and quietly. Unlike many of its rivals, however, this Chevy is responsive and impressively quick in our testing. With a taut chassis and plenty of power, the Bolt EV will challenge whatever negative preconceived notions you might have about electric cars. It’s fast, responsive, and comfortable, measuring up well against its EV competitors in driving dynamics. There are several ways to charge the Bolt EV. On a standard 240-volt Level 2 electric vehicle charger, it takes about nine hours to take the battery pack from empty to full. Bolt EVs with the $750 fast-charging option can plug into a DC fast charger to add approximately 90 miles of range every 30 minutes, provided you can find one of the 1000-plus Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors scattered throughout the U.S. In a pinch, you can also charge using a standard 110-volt outlet, but that option is so slow that Chevrolet doesn’t even provide an estimated charging time. The Bolt EV rides firmly without introducing harsh impacts into the cabin. It has a low center of gravity that makes for secure handling with minimal body roll. This is one EV that’s fun to drive. The regenerative braking system that recharges the battery when you lift off the accelerator means you can drive in most scenarios without ever touching the left pedal. In Drive, there’s only a small amount of deceleration when you lift off the accelerator; L increases the amount of regenerative braking to the point that the car will nearly slow to a stop on its own.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading "Find & Compare Cars" click on the "Compare Side-by-Side" tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you're interested in.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Although it’s spacious and practical, the Bolt EV’s interior quality and appearance don’t befit its $30,000-plus price point. It looks and feels more as if it belongs in an economy car. It’s clear where General Motors spent its money: on the Bolt EV’s big battery. Hard plastics abound inside, although Chevy added some interestingly textured materials to spice up the dashboard. At least the digital displays in the instrument cluster and central touchscreen look crisp and modern. Power-adjustable seats are notable for their absence. The Bolt EV is nearly as practical as your average small crossover, with generous cargo capacity and plenty of spaces to stow smaller stuff throughout the cabin. The Bolt’s overall length is on the small side among its competitive set, but thanks to its upright crossover proportions, it can carry lots of cargo.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Bolt EV’s large central touchscreen, provided by tech company LG, is well organized and easy to operate, but it’s missing some key features and isn’t as quick to respond as we’d like. Built-in navigation isn’t available in the Bolt EV, so you’ll have to rely on your smartphone for directions. Luckily, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, and both can perform those needed navigation functions that Chevy left up to you. Several useful EV-specific menus allow you to delve deeply into information such as battery-energy usage and remaining range.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Chevrolet Bolt EV’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
