Chevrolet Bolt EV

What Is the Chevrolet Bolt EV?

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a battery-electric subcompact hatchback manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. In Chevrolet’s electric lineup, the Bolt EV sits at the entry-level position—below the larger, more expensive Equinox EV and Blazer EV.

It uses a front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout, with the motor driving the front axle. The body style is a five-door hatchback.

What makes the Bolt EV notable is straightforward: it was one of the first affordable electric cars to offer over 200 miles of range when it launched in 2017. The 2022–2023 models received a major interior and exterior refresh, but the underlying platform and battery system remained largely the same as the original.

Quick facts: Chevrolet Bolt EV | Subcompact hatchback | FWD | Entry-level EV | 5 seats

Powertrain, Battery & Charging (Real-World Numbers)

Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), the Bolt EV uses a single permanent-magnet motor producing 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. It’s not quick by sports car standards, but it feels responsive around town.

Battery & Range

• Usable battery capacity: 65 kWh

• EPA estimated range: 259 miles (417 km)

• Test cycle: EPA combined cycle (the standard used in the US)

Note: No WLTP figure is available for the refreshed Bolt EV, as Chevrolet stopped selling it in markets that use WLTP before the 2022 update.

Charging Speeds (The Important Part)

• AC (Level 2) onboard charger: 11 kW

• Full charge time (240V): Approximately 7 hours

• DC fast charging peak rate: 55 kW

• Time from 10% to 80% (DC fast): 60–70 minutes under ideal conditions

This is where the Bolt EV shows its age. Most new EVs in 2023–2025 charge from 10–80% in 20–30 minutes. The Bolt EV takes roughly an hour. That matters if you regularly take road trips. If you charge mostly at home, it’s less of an issue.

All figures above are confirmed by Chevrolet’s official US specifications—not leaks or previews.

Price, Buyer Profile & Competitors

What Did It Cost?

For the final model year (2023), the Chevrolet Bolt EV started at $26,500 MSRP in the United States, plus destination fees. That made it one of the cheapest long-range EVs on the market before it was discontinued.

Chevrolet no longer sells the Bolt EV in Europe or other regions outside North America.

Who Is This Car For?

The Bolt EV realistically suits urban and suburban commuters who:

• Have access to home or workplace Level 2 charging

• Drive less than 150–200 miles most days

• Don’t rely on frequent DC fast charging (due to the 55 kW limit)

• Want an affordable entry into EVs without stretching their budget

It’s less suited for frequent road-trippers, rideshare drivers needing quick turnarounds, or anyone without consistent access to charging at home.

Where It Sits in Chevrolet’s Lineup

• Below: The Bolt EV was positioned below the Equinox EV and Blazer EV (both larger, faster-charging Ultium-platform vehicles)

• Above (historically): It sat above the discontinued Chevrolet Spark gasoline minicar

External Competitors (Similar Price or Segment)

Closest Direct Comparison (For SEO & Buyers)

The Nissan Leaf SV Plus is the most direct competitor. Both are:

• Subcompact FWD hatchbacks

• Priced under $30k (new)

• Equipped with roughly 60–65 kWh usable batteries

• Rated for 250+ miles (Bolt) or 210+ miles (Leaf)

• Limited to 50–55 kW DC fast charging

Between the two, the Bolt EV offers slightly better range and a more usable interior layout. The Leaf offers marginally lower pricing and a longer production history. Neither competes with modern 150–250 kW DC fast charging EVs on road-trip speed.

Quick Summary (For Skimmers)

• Vehicle: Chevrolet Bolt EV (2022–2023 refreshed generation)

• Segment: Subcompact electric hatchback, FWD

• Range: 259 miles EPA (65 kWh usable battery)

• DC fast charging: 55 kW peak (10–80% ~1 hour)

• Starting price (2023): $26,500 USD

• Best for: Daily commuters with home charging

• Closest rival: Nissan Leaf SV Plus

*Note: The Bolt EV was discontinued after the 2023 model year. Used examples remain widely available. For new buyers, Chevrolet now points to the Equinox EV as its entry-level electric offering.*

Chevrolet Bolt EV

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Full Electric Vehicle Specifications