Chevrolet has unveiled the second-generation Bolt, an electric vehicle (EV) that many see as a significant step forward in making electric driving accessible to a broader audience. Starting at an affordable price of $28,995, the new Bolt aims to bring electric mobility within reach for regular buyers without forcing them to sacrifice key features or performance. This new model arrives at a time when the average price of new vehicles in the United States remains high, making the Bolt’s competitive pricing especially noteworthy.
One of the standout aspects of the new Bolt is its balance of affordability and practicality. Unlike some EVs that cut corners to hit a lower price point, Chevrolet’s latest model addresses many of the shortcomings of its predecessor while enhancing usability and technology. For comparison, Tesla’s more affordable models start at nearly $10,000 higher, which positions the Bolt as a compelling alternative for cost-conscious consumers seeking electric options.
The timing of the Bolt’s release is important. According to June 2024 data from Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price for new vehicles in the US is $48,644. Although this figure has dipped slightly from its peak in December 2023, it remains about 13% higher than prices seen in June 2021. In this market context, the Bolt’s sub-$30,000 price tag stands out as a breath of fresh air for buyers who want to transition to electric vehicles without breaking the bank.
From a technical standpoint, the new Chevrolet Bolt impresses with its 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron-phosphate battery pack, which provides an estimated driving range of 255 miles on a full charge. This range represents a modest improvement over the previous Bolt EV and is more than sufficient for most daily driving needs. The battery technology is also paired with fast-charging capabilities that allow the car to charge from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes using a 150-kilowatt charger, making long trips and quick stops much more convenient.
Chevrolet has also ensured that the Bolt is compatible with a wide range of charging options. The car comes with a CCS adapter for older charging stations, and it features a native North American Charging Standard (NACS) port. This inclusion means that Bolt owners can use Tesla Superchargers right from the start, broadening the charging network and enhancing the vehicle’s practicality for everyday use. Additionally, the Bolt supports bidirectional charging with an output of up to 9.6 kilowatts, enabling owners to supply power back to their homes during outages or peak demand times — a feature that adds resilience and versatility to the vehicle.
Performance-wise, the Bolt delivers a lively driving experience with its front-wheel-drive system producing 210 horsepower. Drivers can also customize the regenerative braking system through three modes—low, high, or blended—allowing for a more personalized and efficient driving style. The car’s design emphasizes practicality as well, with 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 57 cubic feet when those seats are folded down. While it’s not an SUV, this capacity makes it well suited for small families or urban drivers who occasionally need extra room for gear or groceries.
Inside the cabin, Chevrolet has modernized the user experience significantly. The interior features an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system alongside an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, both of which contribute to a clean, contemporary dashboard layout. However, the new Bolt notably omits Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as General Motors has opted instead to rely on its native infotainment system with built-in connectivity. This decision is somewhat controversial, especially considering a 2023 McKinsey study that found about half of US car buyers would not consider purchasing a vehicle without Apple CarPlay. This omission could be a sticking point for some potential customers who value smartphone integration highly.
On the technology front, the Bolt offers optional Super Cruise, a hands-free driving system that provides semi-autonomous capabilities on highways. This feature includes lane changing, route following, and automatic merging between interchanges—capabilities that were once reserved for high-end electric vehicles but are now becoming available in more affordable models. This addition enhances safety and convenience, making highway driving less stressful and more enjoyable.
Chevrolet plans to offer the new Bolt in three different trim levels to cater to a variety of buyers. The base LT trim starts at $28,995, the LT Comfort trim is priced at $29,990, and the sportier