If you’re in the market for an affordable electric car with impressive performance and range, the Chevrolet Bolt EV and its crossover counterpart, the Bolt EUV, are worthy contenders. While they share many similarities, it’s the subtle differences that will ultimately influence your decision. In this article, we’ll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each model, helping you make an informed choice when purchasing your new electric vehicle.
Chevrolet’s Competitive Pricing and Commitment:
Updated May 28, 2023: Despite the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV facing some reputation challenges, General Motors has chosen to refresh these models instead of discontinuing them. As one of GM’s best-selling vehicles, the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV still offer significant benefits to potential buyers.
Performance and Agility: Bolt EV Takes the Lead
Both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV feature the same front-axle-mounted, permanent magnet motor, generating a robust 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. However, the Bolt EV’s lighter weight gives it a slight advantage in terms of performance. With 90 pounds less to carry, the Bolt EV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.5 seconds, making it comparable to hot-hatch territory. On the other hand, the Bolt EUV takes half a second longer to reach the same speed, clocking in at 7.0 seconds flat. Additionally, the Bolt EV’s nimble handling and smaller turning circle make it easier to navigate urban environments and tight spaces.
Interior Space: Bolt EUV Offers Enhanced Comfort
The Chevrolet Bolt EUV caters to the American love for crossovers by providing additional interior room compared to its smaller sibling. With a longer wheelbase of 105.3 inches, the Bolt EUV offers 3.1 inches more legroom for rear seat occupants (39.1 inches vs. 36.0 inches in the Bolt EV). The Bolt EUV’s larger size also contributes to a total passenger volume of 96.5 cubic feet, surpassing the Bolt EV’s 93.9 cubic feet. However, the more tapered shape of the Bolt EUV results in slightly less headroom, shoulder room, and hip room in the rear compared to the Bolt EV.
Range: Bolt EV Takes the Lead Again
Both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV share a 65 kWh battery pack. However, due to its lighter weight, the Bolt EV offers a slightly better range. While the Bolt EUV can travel up to 247 miles on a single charge, the Bolt EV can go up to 259 miles. Although the difference may seem small, it can provide extra peace of mind, especially when planning longer trips.
Charging Efficiency: Bolt EV Charges Faster
In terms of charging, the Bolt EV also gains an advantage. Both models can gain about four miles of range per hour of charging at 120 volts and achieve a full charge in approximately seven hours at 240 volts. However, when utilizing DC fast charging, the Bolt EV outperforms the Bolt EUV, gaining 100 miles of range in just 30 minutes, while the Bolt EUV achieves 95 percent of that figure.
Super Cruise: A Feature Exclusive to the Bolt EUV
The Bolt EUV comes equipped with GM’s semi-autonomous driving technology called Super Cruise. This advanced system allows for hands-free driving on over 200,000 miles of compatible roads in the U.S. and Canada, primarily on highways. With a green bar indicating its use, Super Cruise enhances the Bolt EUV’s appeal by providing a credible alternative to more expensive vehicles with similar autonomous capabilities. It’s worth noting that the Bolt EV does not offer this feature, making the Bolt EUV the clear choice for those interested in semi-autonomous driving.
Cargo Space: Bolt EV Takes the Lead Once Again
Surprisingly, despite its smaller size, the Bolt EV offers more cargo space compared to the Bolt EUV. The Bolt EV provides 16.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which expands to 57 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. In contrast, the Bolt EUV offers 16.3 cubic feet and 56.9 cubic feet, respectively. The Bolt EUV’s sloping roofline contributes to a slight reduction in storage capacity.
Interior Design and Features: Bolt EUV Offers More Choices
The interior of the Bolt EUV and Bolt EV feature some differences in design and available features. While the Bolt EV offers Jet Black as the only interior color option, the Bolt EUV provides a few choices to suit individual preferences. Additionally, the Bolt EUV offers the option of a panoramic roof, creating a more spacious and open feel inside the cabin, albeit at the cost of some front-seat headroom. The Bolt EUV also boasts standard adaptive cruise control, which is an optional feature in the Bolt EV. Furthermore, the Bolt EUV is the only model to offer cooled front seats and rear heated seats, providing enhanced comfort for all occupants.
Safety Ratings: Bolt EV Holds a Slight Edge
Safety is a critical consideration for any vehicle, and both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV have undergone rigorous testing. Overall, both models achieved a 5-star rating, the highest possible score, from the United States NHTSA. They also received top marks in frontal barrier and side crash ratings. However, the Bolt EV outperformed the Bolt EUV in the rollover rating, receiving a 5-star rating compared to the Bolt EUV’s 4-star rating. While both vehicles are considered safe, the Bolt EV holds a slight advantage in terms of safety.
Customer Satisfaction: Bolt EUV Earns Higher Ratings
To gauge customer satisfaction, it’s valuable to consider feedback from current owners. According to Consumer Reports, the Bolt EUV received a seven percent higher customer satisfaction rating compared to the Bolt EV for the 2023 model. Seventy-two percent of Bolt EUV owners expressed their happiness and willingness to repurchase the vehicle, while 65% of Bolt EV owners shared the same sentiment. These ratings indicate that both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV are solid choices when it comes to customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: What is the price range of the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV?
A: As of the updated pricing, both the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV are priced below $30,000, making them some of the most affordable electric cars in the market.
Q: What is the difference in performance between the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV?
A: Both vehicles come with the same motor and power output, but due to its lighter weight, the Bolt EV has a slight advantage in terms of acceleration and maneuverability.
Q: Which model offers more interior space?
A: The Bolt EUV has a longer wheelbase, providing more legroom for rear seat occupants compared to the Bolt EV. It also has a slightly higher passenger volume.
Q: What is the range of the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV?
A: Both models share the same 65 kWh battery pack. However, the Bolt EV offers a slightly better range, with up to 259 miles on a single charge, compared to the Bolt EUV’s 247 miles.
Q: How fast can the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV charge?
A: Both vehicles can gain approximately four miles of range per hour of charging at 120 volts. With a 240-volt charger, they can fully charge in about seven hours. The Bolt EV has a slight advantage in DC fast charging, gaining 100 miles of range in 30 minutes compared to the Bolt EUV’s 95 percent of that figure.
Q: Does the Bolt EUV come with semi-autonomous driving technology?
A: Yes, the Bolt EUV is equipped with GM’s Super Cruise, which enables hands-free driving on compatible roads. This feature is not available in the Bolt EV.
Q: Which model offers more cargo space?
A: Surprisingly, the Bolt EV offers more cargo space than the Bolt EUV, despite its smaller size. The Bolt EV provides 16.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 57 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Q: Are there any differences in the interior features between the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV?
A: Yes, the Bolt EUV offers additional features such as a panoramic roof option, cooled front seats, and rear heated seats. The Bolt EV has a simpler interior with fewer choices in terms of color and features.
Q: How do the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV compare in terms of safety ratings?
A: Both models received excellent safety ratings, with a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the Bolt EV performed slightly better in the rollover rating, earning a 5-star rating compared to the Bolt EUV’s 4-star rating.
Q: Which model has higher customer satisfaction?
A: According to Consumer Reports, the Bolt EUV received a higher customer satisfaction rating compared to the Bolt EV for the 2023 model year. However, both models scored well in terms of customer satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Choosing between the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV depends on your specific preferences and needs. The Bolt EV offers better performance, range, maneuverability, and cargo space, making it an ideal option for individuals who prioritize driving dynamics and practicality. On the other hand, the Bolt EUV provides additional interior space, a panoramic roof option, the convenience of Super Cruise for semi-autonomous driving, and enhanced comfort features, making it suitable for families and those seeking a more relaxed driving experience.
With their affordable pricing and updated features, both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV continue to be excellent choices in the electric vehicle market. Consider your priorities, lifestyle, and budget to determine which model aligns best with your requirements.
