GM’s Bolt EV Approved for Production
GM’s Bolt EV Approved for Production
by Arison Knapp
General Motors announced at the Chicago Auto Show the Chevrolet Bolt Electric Vehicle (EV) concept car has been approved for production.
The Bolt EV released at North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit last month is a 200 mile range all-electric five-door hatchback passenger car. Although the production model won’t look as sexy and sleek as this concept pictured nonetheless it’ll still have key modern elements to boost styling. GM says the Bolt EV will be priced right around $30,000 after tax incentives. They have not mentioned any seating capacity but from investigation during the NAIAS it will be a five-seater.
GM mentions the Bolt EV will share the same cutting-edge propulsion system and battery-technology as their Volt Plug-In hybrid (38 mi EV range) and Spark EV (83 mi EV range) however packing a heavier, larger and longer lasting battery pack in the floorboard. GM hasn’t released which wheels it will be powering but from the powerplants GM has chosen it will likely be front-wheel drive.
The Bolt EV production model will be equipped with a DC fast charging connector which is said to charge a low battery to full in less than 20 minutes. Fitted with additional AC connectors Alan Batey, GM North America President, said down the line they’ll incorporate wireless inductive charging.
Plans are set for assembly right outside Detroit in the Orion Assembly Plant where the Chevrolet Sonic and Buick Verano are now being built. GM will invest a total of $200 million to update the plant for Bolt’s assembly. GM hasn’t released a set date or model year for the production model but President Batey says they are pushing the limits of their production process to get this car to market as soon as possible before Tesla has a chance to compete with similar packaged and priced vehicle.
Photos by Arison Knapp
