@@DrivenCarReviews SOME people do. There's also people like me who are realistic and pragmatic about finances. I don't read or watch reviews on products my budget can't afford.
I've had a Bolt for 2 years. Change the cabin filter, rotate the tires, that's it. I charge at home cuz public charging is a crapshoot. Range is fantastic when it's warm but bad in the winter.
I watch a lot of car review channels. Yours is by far my favorite. Honest, articulate, unbiased, and well scripted and produced. Please keep ‘em coming!
We have owned this exact model Bolt for a week and absolutely love it! It's comfortable, quiet, and even in regular drive mode it's very quick and a pleasure to drive. GM is even paying to install the outlet for a level 2 charger! Price after all incentives $32,000 and that includes taxes and all those other dealer charges. As stated in the video the car isn't meant for driving from NY to California. We find after using it for the day even charging at home with a level 1 charger is a viable option.
Well done summary. A year ago we compared the Bolt and Leaf as our around town car in a two car family. We bought the Leaf SV plus since Chevy was not releasing the Bolt till the potential fire issues were resolved. Our road trip car is the official Pacnw Subaru. We installed a dryer type outlet in the garage of our older house for the Leaf. For a two car empty nester family this has been a perfect combination. The leafs Birds Eye view camera has been the best unexpected surprise and superb for parking. We were away for 5 weeks and left the Leaf unplugged (as Nissan recommends) in the garage and charged to 80%. When returned the charge was 79%.
@@mowcowbell where we live in the cool Pacnw, we didn’t think this would be a problem, and was reflected in a reasonable price. I guess I’ll know in time. Starting with 220 mile range, the car would still be functional for us with a 50% range loss. Nissan claims the new battery chemistry is better. With a 7500 tax credit it costs us
I have a 2022 EUV premier. It is funny you mention your wife as I originally bought the Bolt to replace my 2017 Volt but my wife fell in love with the Bolt and we got a much better trade on her Tucson. She has a longer commute so it was always the plan to have her drive it most of the time. She is not a car person, much less an EV enthusiast like me, but she says it is her favorite car of all time. If you get one loaded like ours, it really does feel like a big step up in luxury from most cars in our price range. If the DC fast charging was better, I would consider getting a second one but we still need to make an occasional long drive and get there fast so having the Volt is a better second car for now.
Great video, as always ! Fully agree on your last comments in the video about EV owners knowing their car's charging infrastructure. I own an EV6 in Malaysia and it's frustrating to see cars that cannot fully utilize the 350kW chargers hogging them. On another note, a big thank you, Tom ... one great thing about your videos is that most of the screen time is focused on the car itself and not on the presenter. Many car review channels are exercises in vanity as the presenter spends most of the time talking into a camera interspersed with videos of the car.
Tom, you missed another good thing about the Bolt's charging system. It now has an 11kw which means it charges pretty quickly on a level2 (220v) charger, about 6 hrs. This "kind of sorta" atones a little bit for the slow DC charging, but as you well pointed out, the car is still better as a city runabout.
Yeah, didn't put it in specifically, was trying to keep the time down on this piece. It's in the charge speed graph though, 48A service is needed for those speeds. But for many, charging overnight is all that's really needed.
@@rogermartinez78 - Lots of us drive 20K+ miles a year for work (including major interstates). Imagine how more refreshed we’d all be after a 5 hr drive if you just “observed” in a relaxed position.
@@nathanminer6890 I think there was a study that shows the dangers of systems that aren't intended to take full control, drivers are just not responsible with them at large. I would personally be more stressed observing the system for when I must take over vs just being at the control from the get go. Observing a system for take over also objectively means there is going to be a delay to any correction, a correction to a behavior that might be placing you in a worse position to whatever it's reacting to, if its even reacting to something real. I use lane keep on my Kona N sparingly on specific occasions. After testing it for longer periods, I mostly keep it off. I haven't tested this Chevy system so it might be good enough, can't say.
GM's reuse of the "Redline" name makes me long for the Saturn brand. Had two of them and loved them both. They both worked flawlessly for a decade -- and the coupe I had got 40mpg!
That twin cam, 125hp engine in the SC2 loved to rev. You could take it to redline all day and it would not complain. The engine just needed a better chassis.
I have a Bolt EV, it's been a great car. I agree with you about wanting a "GTI" package ... I would have bought something like that if it were available. But, I'm thinking of doing it myself. Eibach springs are available, slightly wider wheels and better tires ... done! The car drives very well as-is.
I love the look personally, even seeing post saying it's ugly. I'm already thinking of trading-in my Kona N for one but it if they had an AWD performance version, I would jump on that bad boy today.
This package certainly offers the best look inside and out (I got white), is just a perfect commuter car, and there are still plenty available, though they move through the dealer stock pretty fast in some areas (and lots without the ridiculous dealer markups). One important thing to note, I absolutely was not going to pay for the SuperCruise until when researching I found out the automatic emergency braking was unreliable above 50 mph, unless you have the SuperCruise hardware. So for safety, I made sure to get it even though I have no intention of subscribing to their pay-for lane centering service. One other important thing is that this is likely one of the last vehicles from GM you're going to get with CarPlay, which for me is a major consideration to avoid the manufacturers' never-ending subscriptions needed to use the hardware that was already purchased (which ought to be illegal). So just getting a map in future models is going to cost you, but this one is still free.
Excellent review Tom, these Bolts are an intriguing option, and I think they look really sharp. Also wanted to state that I love the extra effort you take to input Closed Captions, as it makes the listening and watching experience that much more enjoyable.
Excellent video. You hit all the major points. Really a bummer about the DC charging speed, but I suppose this architecture is at about the end of its cycle, and for everything else offered, it has a very compelling price.
So much car for the money, with some really great features. I like the idea of full EV’s,but think I would go hybrid if I ever give up driving manual cars. Agreed, GM should have gone a bit farther with this Redline package. Overall GM is really doing well from this all the way to the C8 and Cadillac offerings. Like this car, GM stock might be an excellent value right now.
I really think GM has a sleeper hit on its hands. By focusing on affordability first, GM will be able to refine mass market EVs better than the other manufacturers who seem to be only producing EVs targeted to the more affluent. Also, you made a great Cliffs Note review of this new package.
I have a 2015 Ford Focus Electric (It was my entry into the electric vehicle world) I'm about to upgrade; I appreciate your piece on charging etiquette. I see electric vehicles parked there that not charging; I see "ICE" vehicles parked there not charging. ...Thank God I have a charge station at my home or (excuse my language) I'd be f*****👈 Thank you for the last portion of this video👍
Good luck on finding one in northeast Texas. I have been shopping online so far and it has been an eye opener! I started looking at several online dealers in my area. Well what I have learned is the cars there are mostly in transit. When you call about these the dealership will tell you they are already spoken for. And that is fine I understand but when I go back and look weeks later that same car is still online like no one has spoken for it. Also at the cars online a lot have the same vehicle identification number. I understand there is a chip shortage and backups due to Covid. I did ask about ordering one but the wait is at least 6 months. By then the 24's would nearly be out. I was offered a low mileage 22 but it would have cost more than a new 23 since I don't want the sun and sound package and super cruse. I guess I'll keep driving my 10 year old Volt and 13 year old F150.
I put down a deposit a month ago on one of those "in transit" cars and after a month there's still no sign of it. The dealer originally told me March 20, which passed a week ago, then they said March 27, then April 1 and now no ETA. They leave the cars up on the website even though they're nowhere to be found.
A 7 seconds zero to 60 mph is good if you are not drag racing, same as a Toyota V6. The bottom of the battery is sheet steel, so it is a good idea to add extra rustproofing and touch it up every fall if you live where there is salt on winter roads. See the Project Farm videos about truck bed sprays and Fluid Film spray.
Thanks, Tom. Looks like GM is starting to position Chevrolet back to it's traditional role in this EV segment. This Chevy appears to be a practical, great value proposition. Also looks to be well made with decent engineering. Even the styling is nice in the latest overwrought/origami/angry appliance school of design so prevalent these days. Great review!
I appreciate you saying that if you charge overnight fast charging is not an issue. Your car recharges when you do. And unless you drive 240+ miles a day, you only need to charge every few days.
Would love to see this Bolt here in Australia. Be the perfect car for the wife who only does around 3000-4000 ks per year. Price would be very well placed. Shame it’s not available in RHD tho.
Nice touch on the EV charging etiquette, but if the only available station is 350kw and you need to charge, people will judge. You almost need a handicap plate to not get yelled at.
I don't think people will judge if it's the only option. If that's all there is, people will understand (even if they don't like it much). At one station, there was a Mustang Mach-E owner, kind of hovering near the Taycan I was charging at a 350 terminal. I asked him why he wasn't using the open 150 plug. He wanted to charge up faster. D'oh! Even though I explain his car couldn't charge any faster than 150 he insisted that it would. And he wasted 25 minutes waiting for me to vacate my spot.
Tom -- Unfortunately, that's what I expect we will see, no matter what. Yes, some people will learn and understand, but others will have their minds made up, and you won't be able to tell them anything. The thing to understand is that "technology" won't determine how long it will take you to charge your battery electric vehicle -- "humanity" will. Governments banning the sale of new combustion vehicles WILL have apartment renters and others flooding the public charging stations as their main source of "fueling" their electric vehicles, so "place your bets" on how well the infrastructure will keep up with the number of electric vehicles on the roads. It sure won't be like hundreds of vehicles zipping through Costco gasoline stations per hour -- waiting in line for a dozen cars ahead of you is NOT going to be fun in our battery electric vehicle future.
@@tom_hoots 1) I think governments will roll that back if it impacts people too much and infrastructure isn't ready. 2) Never underestimate companies and utilities when it comes to making money. Americans can be VERY ambitious when it comes to making a buck.
The folks jonesing for the 350 chargers even when their car can’t support it, makes me think it’s the same people who put premium (high octane) fuel in a car that takes 87 octane because “premium makes it run better.”
Can I request a video going in-depth or expanding on charge station etiquette? Many in or joining the EV crowd aren't electrical engineers and don't understand some of the nuances/capabilities/limitations. As EV adoption grows, this will lead to frustrations which may deter potential future converts. There can't be enough content covering these issues as the message needs to get out.
Everybody always questions how long it take to fully charge from empty. But in the real world, using it around town, by the end of the day you only need to charge half the battery tops! It can be charged in not time
Understood. But it's a measurement metric that's more understandable. Typically most people only drive 35-50 miles in a day and it's pretty easy to realize it won't take all night to top off.
The budget/SS performance suspension trick would be 1.5 in lowered (w skidpate), maybe a different wheel pattern or color, contrast color side mirrors....chrome delete, until then, hrsprs stickers.
Whenever I see a Bolt turning, I'm struck by how low the turn indicators are. Even though I'm not in in a raised seating position (Volvo XC70), I find them easy to miss. What do you think of their height, especially in this SUV-filled world? I do think they look nice aesthetically where they are, but I wouldn't trade that for safety!
they are not unsafe and you can see them with no issue they are led and very bright you also have the third brake light creates a light trinangle you cant miss from behind the car
@@ryansherman4556Is the third brake light activated when you turn on the blinkers? I agree the turn indicators are bright, but that doesn't help if you can't see them below the hood of your car!
@@nicklum3248 you can see all the lights back there you just want to be right about the taillights so what your telling me is any vechicle or trailer that dosent have high mounted lights you just get to run into them
Always the professional, Tom. I would like to add that what might color your view of the Bolt EUV is the upcoming Equinox EV. The latter is slated to have 3x faster DC charging, faster _level 2_ charging (on the upgraded model), AWD, more range, and all served in a larger package. The Equinox EV is miles (pun intended) ahead of the Bolt EUV starting @ $31k.
The fact about no spare is basically a non-issue for most people, imho. How often do you get a flat and if you do are you interested in changing it along a potentially busy road?!
Great review! Bolt EUV seems like a very affordable EV for the money. Too bad they don't offer an all wheel drive package. It's good to have if you live in Canada or close the border of Canada-USA because winters are so harsh. Charging speed and charging reliability is still an issue when going on long road trips as many public chargers don't always work.
Great video. Since it’s a fwd…. Can you give me advice about hills and driving in about 2inches of snow. How do you think it would handle? Could it handle any hills?
In your case I highly suggest investing in winter tires if it's a common occurrence. On all seasons, chances are the Bolt will do fine going up hill as long as it's a modest grade. Traction control tends to be be better with EVs in my experience, plus the weight helps. BUT, you'll appreciate the extra traction and control of winter tires going downhill (where weight isn't as good). The mistake many AWD drivers make is overconfidence, especially downhill (where AWD has no advantage). Tires make all the difference. The $1,200 you'd spend on a set could easily be the cost of your insurance deductible.
I would like to see them start towing non-charging EV's parked at the charging station. It has to be the most frustrating aspect of owning an EV, other than finding no charging station at all.
Thanks for pointing out that it’s a great deal if can get it at MSRP. Dealers in CA are currently tacking on an extra 3k or more. It’s a huge disappointment especially after watching videos like this where folks got MSRP and the $7500 tax credit. Some states also have a state rebate or credit as well. And on we go…
They're not run-flats, but they're self sealing so you are much less likely to lose pressure. If you're really worried there's a fix-a-flat kit the dealers sell for $100. I'm not worried, tires rarely go flat any more, a lot has changed since 1970. I've had two flats in 30 years and one was my own fault.
Fix / update faster charging capability and I would seriously consider it and I am not a GM fan. That battery charging shortfall is a full miss for me.
If they make a “DRIVEN” model I’m sure it will have all the bells and whistles you can’t expect much with”REDLINE”😂The front looks like it has a cold weather kit fitted like you get on semis and pickups in cold States .You should do a video explaining charging separately certainly help clear up some of the info people get sometimes worryingly from their dealers
GM issues recall for 120k Chevy Bolts EVs in US alone According to GM, the exhaust gases from the pretensioner can come into contact with carpeting fibers on the Bolt's floor and ignite. The recall affects 120,000 Chevy Bolt EVs in the US and 20,000 in Canada, and pertains to model year vehicles between 2017 and 2023.Dec 21, 2022
dc charging speed is 55kw which isnt the fastest.. but really how often are you driving 250+ miles. Budget a little bit of time or take a Turo of a prius C for $39 a day, because nobody wants to drive a prius because its slow and not fun. pocket the extra money becuase your EUV is 27000 minus 7500 tax credit so its 20000 which is great because i cant take the 25000 saved over a model 3 and buy telsa stock
Would someone explain to me how all these people have bolts when I have spent many months trying to pay cash for a new Bolt. Every time I would call any of the 5 dealers, most would tell me; "yes we have them but no we can't sell you one." "Why?" I would ask. Their answer was that they still hadn't fix them from the recall, they still burn even when parked. Can I finally get one?
There are plenty of used ones with brand new batteries at dealers because people took buybacks when the battery recall happened. Dealers can't sell the ones waiting for the recall but they can sell the ones that have it done which is most of them at this point. New ones are impossible to find, but at least they're theoretically available.
If I was in marketing at General Motors, I would seriously consider changing the name of the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. I would actually resurrect the Nova name. Although with a little twist. Nova in Spanish means doesn't go. The new name, Nogas. Imagine a Chevrolet Nogas.
@@DrivenCarReviews yeah maybe you are right. If Chevrolet Nogas is not that good. Maybe Chevrolet Gasfree. I am not a fan of the naming of supposedly cool vehicles. Gasfree would be a cool name because it would signal that the Bolt EUV was affordable and electric. Excuse me, but I got to go look at an Aventon Level.
@@DrivenCarReviews yeah you're right. Although Bolt is pretty lame. Believe it or not the Pontiac Fiero was originally named the Sunfire. One of the janitors at GM suggested Fiero. Rest is history. Chevrolet TomVoelk sounds pretty exciting, but that name is all ready taken. You have to admit, even TomVoelk is more exciting than Bolt.
I just wish it charged faster. Great for an around town car but like you said, you’d have to pack your patience if you were doing the occasional road-trip that most people do.
As long as your occasional long trip doesn't involve driving more than 500 miles a day, the Bolt EV/EUV is still good. In summer time, you drive 230 miles first leg, then you split the rest of the trip in legs of about 110 miles and 35 minutes of charge. At speeds of about 70 mph. At the end of the day, you will be a lot more rested and still be ready for a late night party after checking-in to your hotel. People like to point out 10-80% SOC charging but who really cares ? An EV6 or Ioniq5 drive about the same distance as a Bolt EV that was charged @ 65%. Charging the Bolt EV from 10% to 65% is about 35 minutes. Ioniq5 from 10 to 80% is 20 minutes. So, 15 minutes difference for about the same distance to travel. And about double the price for an Ionique 5. Now, do the math.
You're wrong. The second recall is for a seatbelt pretensioner that can singe carpet after deploying in an accident. All Bolts made since fall have the updated system.
Are these safe now? I heard GM suggest u charge outside the garage and within a certain distance due to potential fire. Seriously want a base for a weekly commute and then charge over the weekend. Will use my ICE cars during the weekend
As far as I know, they're safe if they have the new pack. To be safe, if I were an owner and charging in an attached garage, I would limit it to 80% if the range was needed on an everyday basis. That's just smart on all EVs for battery health. Raise it to 100% before longer trips.
No Tom, Redline does not mean more fun. It just means, Chevrolet has an excuse to 'charge' more money. The Redline didn't work for Saturn (the other GM brand) and it won't work for the Bolt ⚡regardless of the oh-ah red accents. hey, look on the bright side, at least Chevrolet is trying.
Not a great long traveling EV because of the super slow 50kW DC no-so fast charging. I also hate seeing Bolts charging on the road because they CLOG UP DC FAST CHARGERS!!! You have to wait forever for owners to unplug. Ugh!
I love these affordable car reviews. As an average married guy with a mortgage, the $100k porsche and SUV reviews are a pipe dream....
I second this. Those luxury super premiums reviews many car channels fall in love with are totally useless for vast majority of viewers.
People like to dream though...
You got a mortgage?! 😛
@@DrivenCarReviews SOME people do. There's also people like me who are realistic and pragmatic about finances. I don't read or watch reviews on products my budget can't afford.
@@janoycresnova9156i
I've had a Bolt for 2 years. Change the cabin filter, rotate the tires, that's it. I charge at home cuz public charging is a crapshoot. Range is fantastic when it's warm but bad in the winter.
I watch a lot of car review channels. Yours is by far my favorite. Honest, articulate, unbiased, and well scripted and produced. Please keep ‘em coming!
You sound honest, articulate, and unbiased yourself Ron. Cheers!
Thanks for the helpful advice about charge station etiquette. All EV RUclipsrs should continue to discuss.
We have owned this exact model Bolt for a week and absolutely love it! It's comfortable, quiet, and even in regular drive mode it's very quick and a pleasure to drive. GM is even paying to install the outlet for a level 2 charger! Price after all incentives $32,000 and that includes taxes and all those other dealer charges. As stated in the video the car isn't meant for driving from NY to California. We find after using it for the day even charging at home with a level 1 charger is a viable option.
Well done summary. A year ago we compared the Bolt and Leaf as our around town car in a two car family. We bought the Leaf SV plus since Chevy was not releasing the Bolt till the potential fire issues were resolved. Our road trip car is the official Pacnw Subaru. We installed a dryer type outlet in the garage of our older house for the Leaf. For a two car empty nester family this has been a perfect combination. The leafs Birds Eye view camera has been the best unexpected surprise and superb for parking. We were away for 5 weeks and left the Leaf unplugged (as Nissan recommends) in the garage and charged to 80%. When returned the charge was 79%.
I briefly considered the Leaf, but the lack of a liquid cooled battery pack quickly led me to look at superior alternatives.
@@mowcowbell where we live in the cool Pacnw, we didn’t think this would be a problem, and was reflected in a reasonable price. I guess I’ll know in time. Starting with 220 mile range, the car would still be functional for us with a 50% range loss. Nissan claims the new battery chemistry is better. With a 7500 tax credit it costs us
I have a 2022 EUV premier. It is funny you mention your wife as I originally bought the Bolt to replace my 2017 Volt but my wife fell in love with the Bolt and we got a much better trade on her Tucson. She has a longer commute so it was always the plan to have her drive it most of the time. She is not a car person, much less an EV enthusiast like me, but she says it is her favorite car of all time. If you get one loaded like ours, it really does feel like a big step up in luxury from most cars in our price range.
If the DC fast charging was better, I would consider getting a second one but we still need to make an occasional long drive and get there fast so having the Volt is a better second car for now.
You're the best, Tom. I especially loved the ending about the myths and etiquette. 💯 spot on.
Great video, as always ! Fully agree on your last comments in the video about EV owners knowing their car's charging infrastructure. I own an EV6 in Malaysia and it's frustrating to see cars that cannot fully utilize the 350kW chargers hogging them. On another note, a big thank you, Tom ... one great thing about your videos is that most of the screen time is focused on the car itself and not on the presenter. Many car review channels are exercises in vanity as the presenter spends most of the time talking into a camera interspersed with videos of the car.
Tom, you missed another good thing about the Bolt's charging system. It now has an 11kw which means it charges pretty quickly on a level2 (220v) charger, about 6 hrs. This "kind of sorta" atones a little bit for the slow DC charging, but as you well pointed out, the car is still better as a city runabout.
Yeah, didn't put it in specifically, was trying to keep the time down on this piece. It's in the charge speed graph though, 48A service is needed for those speeds. But for many, charging overnight is all that's really needed.
I ordered mine 13 weeks ago. I was called today, being told I’m onto phase two! They have accepted the order. Hopefully here in two more months. 🤞🏻
Surprisingly capable and loaded for the low $30K (after tax credit). Excited to see Super Cruise trickle down as well. Great review. Thanks Tom!
Not sure what is the craze about super cruise especially if you want to drive and always be in control of your own driving!
@@rogermartinez78 - Lots of us drive 20K+ miles a year for work (including major interstates). Imagine how more refreshed we’d all be after a 5 hr drive if you just “observed” in a relaxed position.
@@nathanminer6890 I think there was a study that shows the dangers of systems that aren't intended to take full control, drivers are just not responsible with them at large. I would personally be more stressed observing the system for when I must take over vs just being at the control from the get go. Observing a system for take over also objectively means there is going to be a delay to any correction, a correction to a behavior that might be placing you in a worse position to whatever it's reacting to, if its even reacting to something real.
I use lane keep on my Kona N sparingly on specific occasions. After testing it for longer periods, I mostly keep it off. I haven't tested this Chevy system so it might be good enough, can't say.
GM's reuse of the "Redline" name makes me long for the Saturn brand. Had two of them and loved them both. They both worked flawlessly for a decade -- and the coupe I had got 40mpg!
That twin cam, 125hp engine in the SC2 loved to rev. You could take it to redline all day and it would not complain. The engine just needed a better chassis.
Great review, and thanks for your comments starting at 10:58 about the usual misinformation. One of the reasons I trust your reviews.
I have a Bolt EV, it's been a great car. I agree with you about wanting a "GTI" package ... I would have bought something like that if it were available. But, I'm thinking of doing it myself. Eibach springs are available, slightly wider wheels and better tires ... done! The car drives very well as-is.
I love the look personally, even seeing post saying it's ugly. I'm already thinking of trading-in my Kona N for one but it if they had an AWD performance version, I would jump on that bad boy today.
This package certainly offers the best look inside and out (I got white), is just a perfect commuter car, and there are still plenty available, though they move through the dealer stock pretty fast in some areas (and lots without the ridiculous dealer markups).
One important thing to note, I absolutely was not going to pay for the SuperCruise until when researching I found out the automatic emergency braking was unreliable above 50 mph, unless you have the SuperCruise hardware. So for safety, I made sure to get it even though I have no intention of subscribing to their pay-for lane centering service.
One other important thing is that this is likely one of the last vehicles from GM you're going to get with CarPlay, which for me is a major consideration to avoid the manufacturers' never-ending subscriptions needed to use the hardware that was already purchased (which ought to be illegal). So just getting a map in future models is going to cost you, but this one is still free.
Excellent review Tom, these Bolts are an intriguing option, and I think they look really sharp. Also wanted to state that I love the extra effort you take to input Closed Captions, as it makes the listening and watching experience that much more enjoyable.
I love my bolt EUV. Such a steal!
Accurate review from a long time Bolt owner now with the 2023 EUV premier S&S package.
Excellent video. You hit all the major points. Really a bummer about the DC charging speed, but I suppose this architecture is at about the end of its cycle, and for everything else offered, it has a very compelling price.
Thank you for the review and the speech at the end Tom!
So much car for the money, with some really great features. I like the idea of full EV’s,but think I would go hybrid if I ever give up driving manual cars. Agreed, GM should have gone a bit farther with this Redline package. Overall GM is really doing well from this all the way to the C8 and Cadillac offerings. Like this car, GM stock might be an excellent value right now.
Driving a hybrid is like having a toaster over, zero fun!
Thank you for the closing comments on charging etiquette. We all need to beat that drum each time we can.
Good stuff. I also like how you educate people for a better charger behavior.
Nice, you filmed the charging segment in the Ballard Fred Meyer lot!
I really think GM has a sleeper hit on its hands. By focusing on affordability first, GM will be able to refine mass market EVs better than the other manufacturers who seem to be only producing EVs targeted to the more affluent.
Also, you made a great Cliffs Note review of this new package.
I have a 2015 Ford Focus Electric (It was my entry into the electric vehicle world) I'm about to upgrade; I appreciate your piece on charging etiquette. I see electric vehicles parked there that not charging; I see "ICE" vehicles parked there not charging. ...Thank God I have a charge station at my home or (excuse my language) I'd be f*****👈 Thank you for the last portion of this video👍
Good luck on finding one in northeast Texas. I have been shopping online so far and it has been an eye opener! I started looking at several online dealers in my area. Well what I have learned is the cars there are mostly in transit. When you call about these the dealership will tell you they are already spoken for. And that is fine I understand but when I go back and look weeks later that same car is still online like no one has spoken for it. Also at the cars online a lot have the same vehicle identification number. I understand there is a chip shortage and backups due to Covid. I did ask about ordering one but the wait is at least 6 months. By then the 24's would nearly be out. I was offered a low mileage 22 but it would have cost more than a new 23 since I don't want the sun and sound package and super cruse. I guess I'll keep driving my 10 year old Volt and 13 year old F150.
I put down a deposit a month ago on one of those "in transit" cars and after a month there's still no sign of it. The dealer originally told me March 20, which passed a week ago, then they said March 27, then April 1 and now no ETA. They leave the cars up on the website even though they're nowhere to be found.
Very realistic review on an affordable EV..thanks
Thanks for the charging etiquette info!
Great content always. Also thanks for mentioning charging etiquettes.
Good charging etiquette tips. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, Tom. I hope you & your loved ones had a beautiful holiday season & a Happy New Year. Cya in the next vid
Great review thank you. Nice and honest.
From a beyond satisfied Bolt EUV Premiere owner: THERE ARE NO PERFECT CARS - but the Bolt is as close to one that you'll find.
Must not be a car, cuz it's perfect
I especially like the etiquette messaging. It takes so little to be better.
A 7 seconds zero to 60 mph is good if you are not drag racing, same as a Toyota V6. The bottom of the battery is sheet steel, so it is a good idea to add extra rustproofing and touch it up every fall if you live where there is salt on winter roads. See the Project Farm videos about truck bed sprays and Fluid Film spray.
Thanks, Tom. Looks like GM is starting to position Chevrolet back to it's traditional role in this EV segment. This Chevy appears to be a practical, great value proposition. Also looks to be well made with decent engineering. Even the styling is nice in the latest overwrought/origami/angry appliance school of design so prevalent these days. Great review!
Love that you proactively fire away at the people who seem to be anti-EV, but for some reason haunt the EV car reviews!
Best EV on the market.
Whoa - Tom, the Bolt said it'd be 50 min to go from 65 - 80% SOC (5:12 min in vid). Battery must have been VERY cold.
The Bose system in my 2LT 2023, is awesome!
I appreciate you saying that if you charge overnight fast charging is not an issue. Your car recharges when you do. And unless you drive 240+ miles a day, you only need to charge every few days.
Would love to see this Bolt here in Australia. Be the perfect car for the wife who only does around 3000-4000 ks per year. Price would be very well placed. Shame it’s not available in RHD tho.
Fantastic little car
Nice touch on the EV charging etiquette, but if the only available station is 350kw and you need to charge, people will judge. You almost need a handicap plate to not get yelled at.
I don't think people will judge if it's the only option. If that's all there is, people will understand (even if they don't like it much). At one station, there was a Mustang Mach-E owner, kind of hovering near the Taycan I was charging at a 350 terminal. I asked him why he wasn't using the open 150 plug. He wanted to charge up faster. D'oh! Even though I explain his car couldn't charge any faster than 150 he insisted that it would. And he wasted 25 minutes waiting for me to vacate my spot.
Tom -- Unfortunately, that's what I expect we will see, no matter what. Yes, some people will learn and understand, but others will have their minds made up, and you won't be able to tell them anything. The thing to understand is that "technology" won't determine how long it will take you to charge your battery electric vehicle -- "humanity" will. Governments banning the sale of new combustion vehicles WILL have apartment renters and others flooding the public charging stations as their main source of "fueling" their electric vehicles, so "place your bets" on how well the infrastructure will keep up with the number of electric vehicles on the roads. It sure won't be like hundreds of vehicles zipping through Costco gasoline stations per hour -- waiting in line for a dozen cars ahead of you is NOT going to be fun in our battery electric vehicle future.
@@tom_hoots 1) I think governments will roll that back if it impacts people too much and infrastructure isn't ready. 2) Never underestimate companies and utilities when it comes to making money. Americans can be VERY ambitious when it comes to making a buck.
@@DrivenCarReviews Sounds like the same guy that would put 93 in a car tuned to run on 87.....
Great review!! Thank you!!
This makes a great city car!!
Electric GTI? Yes please!!
I replaced my MK5 GTI with a Mini Cooper SE.
“Absolutely Magnificent Review
have to admit, it's a great value
It’s worth noting that the Redline is the only way to get black leather on the EUV, otherwise the dark interior option is actually dark blue leather.
Noted, thanks for weighing in.
Thank you for talking charging etiquette, especially when reviewing Bolt 😂
The folks jonesing for the 350 chargers even when their car can’t support it, makes me think it’s the same people who put premium (high octane) fuel in a car that takes 87 octane because “premium makes it run better.”
I hate that, I give a 5-minute explanation of why doesn't make sense, pause, yeah but I just like to give it that extra
Can I request a video going in-depth or expanding on charge station etiquette? Many in or joining the EV crowd aren't electrical engineers and don't understand some of the nuances/capabilities/limitations. As EV adoption grows, this will lead to frustrations which may deter potential future converts. There can't be enough content covering these issues as the message needs to get out.
Everybody always questions how long it take to fully charge from empty. But in the real world, using it around town, by the end of the day you only need to charge half the battery tops! It can be charged in not time
Understood. But it's a measurement metric that's more understandable. Typically most people only drive 35-50 miles in a day and it's pretty easy to realize it won't take all night to top off.
Great etiquette tips
The budget/SS performance suspension trick would be 1.5 in lowered (w skidpate), maybe a different wheel pattern or color, contrast color side mirrors....chrome delete, until then, hrsprs stickers.
Whenever I see a Bolt turning, I'm struck by how low the turn indicators are. Even though I'm not in in a raised seating position (Volvo XC70), I find them easy to miss. What do you think of their height, especially in this SUV-filled world? I do think they look nice aesthetically where they are, but I wouldn't trade that for safety!
they are not unsafe and you can see them with no issue they are led and very bright you also have the third brake light creates a light trinangle you cant miss from behind the car
@@ryansherman4556Is the third brake light activated when you turn on the blinkers? I agree the turn indicators are bright, but that doesn't help if you can't see them below the hood of your car!
@@nicklum3248 you can see all the lights back there you just want to be right about the taillights so what your telling me is any vechicle or trailer that dosent have high mounted lights you just get to run into them
That's how we maintain an aura of mystery / stop looking at our butt
Always the professional, Tom. I would like to add that what might color your view of the Bolt EUV is the upcoming Equinox EV. The latter is slated to have 3x faster DC charging, faster _level 2_ charging (on the upgraded model), AWD, more range, and all served in a larger package. The Equinox EV is miles (pun intended) ahead of the Bolt EUV starting @ $31k.
Check carefully, there's a lot of spec mixing, base model has 250 mi range, 210 hp vs 200, but in a heavier vehicle. $30K, when & if.
The fact about no spare is basically a non-issue for most people, imho. How often do you get a flat and if you do are you interested in changing it along a potentially busy road?!
Common first gassers, seem like peeps make a big deal cut EV
Great review! Bolt EUV seems like a very affordable EV for the money. Too bad they don't offer an all wheel drive package. It's good to have if you live in Canada or close the border of Canada-USA because winters are so harsh. Charging speed and charging reliability is still an issue when going on long road trips as many public chargers don't always work.
This isn't a good Canadien road tripper in winter months. Best as a city car in extreme cold.
@@DrivenCarReviews Canadian*. No e.
@@Digikidthevoiceofreason Tying fast, trying to get to a lot of people.
Tom’s wife: My husband? He’s into cars. 😎
The Bolt is good daily driver but slow charging speeds make it a tedious road tripper. However its goods to know one can road trip in it if needed.
Great video. Since it’s a fwd…. Can you give me advice about hills and driving in about 2inches of snow. How do you think it would handle? Could it handle any hills?
In your case I highly suggest investing in winter tires if it's a common occurrence. On all seasons, chances are the Bolt will do fine going up hill as long as it's a modest grade. Traction control tends to be be better with EVs in my experience, plus the weight helps. BUT, you'll appreciate the extra traction and control of winter tires going downhill (where weight isn't as good). The mistake many AWD drivers make is overconfidence, especially downhill (where AWD has no advantage). Tires make all the difference. The $1,200 you'd spend on a set could easily be the cost of your insurance deductible.
I want one. I hope they're available in a year or so. But I won't count on it.
I would like to see them start towing non-charging EV's parked at the charging station. It has to be the most frustrating aspect of owning an EV, other than finding no charging station at all.
True, weird to be iced by an EV
Where is the bar that tells you if it is going optimistic or pessimistic in the guess-o-meter?
ABC = Always Be Charging with the Bolt
Why? I went about 10 days between charging in summer and 5-6 in winter (but I always crank up the heater).
I like it, it may be super cool like a Tesla but it's way cheaper. It'll get the job done.
And you won't be giving your money to that idiot Elon
Very concise review. This or the VW which would you prefer?
Doesn't matter, only matters to the buyer.
Since you tested the new Prius, how does it stack up? Always enjoy your reviews👍
Different class of car Todd. The Chevy is super quiet, the Toyota will still. have some ICE engine noise.
@@DrivenCarReviews understand that, but the feel on the road…
Gas / no gas
Thanks for pointing out that it’s a great deal if can get it at MSRP. Dealers in CA are currently tacking on an extra 3k or more. It’s a huge disappointment especially after watching videos like this where folks got MSRP and the $7500 tax credit. Some states also have a state rebate or credit as well. And on we go…
You need some luck and you need to play games with the dealer, Hungry Like The wolf, Sly like a fox
Oh, that sound was the "entry greeting." I had to go back in the video and play though it again. I thought it was.... Well, nevermind. 😊
It was... compensating for something?
Nice car but would be amazing if it had ~100 kW DCFC.
No spare: dealbreaker. Does it at least have run-flats?
Yes
They're not run-flats, but they're self sealing so you are much less likely to lose pressure.
If you're really worried there's a fix-a-flat kit the dealers sell for $100. I'm not worried, tires rarely go flat any more, a lot has changed since 1970. I've had two flats in 30 years and one was my own fault.
Fix / update faster charging capability and I would seriously consider it and I am not a GM fan. That battery charging shortfall is a full miss for me.
If they make a “DRIVEN” model I’m sure it will have all the bells and whistles you can’t expect much with”REDLINE”😂The front looks like it has a cold weather kit fitted like you get on semis and pickups in cold States .You should do a video explaining charging separately certainly help clear up some of the info people get sometimes worryingly from their dealers
I think you just made Sofyan cry.
GM issues recall for 120k Chevy Bolts EVs in US alone
According to GM, the exhaust gases from the pretensioner can come into contact with carpeting fibers on the Bolt's floor and ignite. The recall affects 120,000 Chevy Bolt EVs in the US and 20,000 in Canada, and pertains to model year vehicles between 2017 and 2023.Dec 21, 2022
And they fix it with tape. LITERALLY. I have a 21 Bolt EV and watched them do the recall work on mine.
dc charging speed is 55kw which isnt the fastest.. but really how often are you driving 250+ miles. Budget a little bit of time or take a Turo of a prius C for $39 a day, because nobody wants to drive a prius because its slow and not fun.
pocket the extra money becuase your EUV is 27000 minus 7500 tax credit so its 20000 which is great because i cant take the 25000 saved over a model 3 and buy telsa stock
Has anyone had to replace the 2023 EUV battery? My 2023 EUV needed a battery replacement within the first week and I am afraid now I got a lemon
Maybe it got abused at the dealership
Would someone explain to me how all these people have bolts when I have spent many months trying to pay cash for a new Bolt. Every time I would call any of the 5 dealers, most would tell me; "yes we have them but no we can't sell you one." "Why?" I would ask. Their answer was that they still hadn't fix them from the recall, they still burn even when parked. Can I finally get one?
There are plenty of used ones with brand new batteries at dealers because people took buybacks when the battery recall happened. Dealers can't sell the ones waiting for the recall but they can sell the ones that have it done which is most of them at this point.
New ones are impossible to find, but at least they're theoretically available.
@fluffysheap That's OK, I'll stick with my two Prius cars! One a hybrid, one a plug-in.
If I was in marketing at General Motors, I would seriously consider changing the name of the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. I would actually resurrect the Nova name. Although with a little twist. Nova in Spanish means doesn't go. The new name, Nogas. Imagine a Chevrolet Nogas.
Ha! BTW, the Nova thing is an urban myth. Nova sold very well in Latin American countries and it kind of (but doesn't really) translate to "no go".
@@DrivenCarReviews yeah maybe you are right. If Chevrolet Nogas is not that good. Maybe Chevrolet Gasfree. I am not a fan of the naming of supposedly cool vehicles. Gasfree would be a cool name because it would signal that the Bolt EUV was affordable and electric. Excuse me, but I got to go look at an Aventon Level.
@@MrWelfarehater Hmmmm, as you can see, naming a car is a lot harder than it seems.
@@DrivenCarReviews yeah you're right. Although Bolt is pretty lame. Believe it or not the Pontiac Fiero was originally named the Sunfire. One of the janitors at GM suggested Fiero. Rest is history. Chevrolet TomVoelk sounds pretty exciting, but that name is all ready taken. You have to admit, even TomVoelk is more exciting than Bolt.
I thought GM was discontinuing the Bolt at the end of the 2023 model year?
It is
@@DrivenCarReviews. They changed their mind and will release one on the ultimun platform.
What an outrage! No Costco run for the TP test?! How will I know??
I linked to the first EUV piece at the end of this one. Enjoy the softness and absorbency.
Plus you get even panel gaps unlike the crappy Teslas at twice the price, LOL!
Toasty cushions…ill say Poor choice of words toasty
Bolts in Seattle are going for $2000-3000 over sticker
I found a dealer in the area that sells for MSRP, but will take 3-6 mons for delivery.
The Importen question: wireless Android auto
Yes
I just wish it charged faster. Great for an around town car but like you said, you’d have to pack your patience if you were doing the occasional road-trip that most people do.
As long as your occasional long trip doesn't involve driving more than 500 miles a day, the Bolt EV/EUV is still good. In summer time, you drive 230 miles first leg, then you split the rest of the trip in legs of about 110 miles and 35 minutes of charge. At speeds of about 70 mph. At the end of the day, you will be a lot more rested and still be ready for a late night party after checking-in to your hotel.
People like to point out 10-80% SOC charging but who really cares ? An EV6 or Ioniq5 drive about the same distance as a Bolt EV that was charged @ 65%. Charging the Bolt EV from 10% to 65% is about 35 minutes. Ioniq5 from 10 to 80% is 20 minutes. So, 15 minutes difference for about the same distance to travel. And about double the price for an Ionique 5. Now, do the math.
What about the new RECALL for fire risk? It's already the second RECALL for the same reason!
You're wrong. The second recall is for a seatbelt pretensioner that can singe carpet after deploying in an accident. All Bolts made since fall have the updated system.
@@DrivenCarReviews And what is "singe", If not exactly a FIRE RISK? ha ha ha
Great Review. I certainly hope GM/LG Chem has the quality issues resolved particularly before launching the Equinox & Blazer Evs.
Are these safe now? I heard GM suggest u charge outside the garage and within a certain distance due to potential fire. Seriously want a base for a weekly commute and then charge over the weekend. Will use my ICE cars during the weekend
As far as I know, they're safe if they have the new pack. To be safe, if I were an owner and charging in an attached garage, I would limit it to 80% if the range was needed on an everyday basis. That's just smart on all EVs for battery health. Raise it to 100% before longer trips.
It's decent looking on the inside, but not so much on the outside... a good price though.
I'm curious what you think would be a better design. What's your favorite small hatchback styles?
Jan-Mar 2023 to get that $7500 tax credit but things may change again after Mar '23.
redline is just a sticker package
The thing I don't like is that the company is once again leaving the small sub compact car platform. 😒
It's because no one buys them in the US. They have to give them away to help with CAFE standards. Typically automakers lose money on them.
No Tom, Redline does not mean more fun. It just means, Chevrolet has an excuse to 'charge' more money. The Redline didn't work for Saturn (the other GM brand) and it won't work for the Bolt ⚡regardless of the oh-ah red accents. hey, look on the bright side, at least Chevrolet is trying.
Sounds like more fun
Has GM addressed the Bolt battery fire issues and recalls ?
It would seem so.
Not a great long traveling EV because of the super slow 50kW DC no-so fast charging. I also hate seeing Bolts charging on the road because they CLOG UP DC FAST CHARGERS!!! You have to wait forever for owners to unplug. Ugh!
Lot of piano black around that screen.