Chevrolet's Detroit motor show concept shows off the manufacturer's vision for an affordable all-electric vehicle, and looks very likely to make productionThe Chevrolet Bolt EV, revealed today at the Detroit motor show, could offer a significant breakthrough in electric vehicle technology by offering a 200-mile range for a price of $30,000 (about £20,000) if it is approved for production.
Chevrolet said the car represents its "vision for an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle" and is an indication that it is committed to electrification as a power source for cars. Although the company unveiled a concept at the motor show, it spoke in broad terms about the vehicle making production.
The company hasn't gone into details about the technology underpinning the Bolt, but its lithium-ion battery pack provides a claimed range of 200 miles in optimum conditions.
Allied with the projected cost, it could make electric vehicles more attractive to consumers, and General Motors boss Mary Barra said the Bolt was "an electric vehicle for everyone" and believed it would "raise the bar for EVs".
She added that it builds on lessons learned from Chevrolet's existing Spark EV and Volt range-extender: "This is not a science experiment – it's a crossover EV for the real world, designed for everyday drivers. It shows our expertise in this area and will be sold in all 50 states of the US and in selected markets around the world."
The four-seat Bolt has minimal front and rear overhangs to maximise interior space. Lightweight materials, including aluminium, magnesium, carbonfibre and woven mesh, have been incorporated into the design to drive down the kerb weight. The crossover also features active aero devices such as vented rear fenders.
The Bolt EV concept features operating modes configured for different driving styles, such as daily commuting or weekend cruising. The modes adjust accelerator pedal mapping, vehicle ride height and suspension tuning. The Bolt EV concept is also designed to support DC fast-charging – although there's no word on how long charging takes.
The concept features a sizeable ten-inch touchscreen on the dashboard. It can be paired with a smartphone with the concept Bolt EV Connect app, which is designed to allow a smartphone to perform as the key fob, allow drivers to offer and accept ride-sharing and park the car autonomously.
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