The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV will haul in a host of firsts for the automaker, but the brand is particularly excited to highlight its advanced one-pedal driving modes.
What is one-pedal driving? The regenerative braking system captures lost energy from deceleration and sends it back the Bolt EV’s battery pack. Then, additional software can utilize the energy to stop the vehicle without touching the brake pedal in certain conditions.
“Bolt EV customers who want an engaging driving experience will love the thrill of one-pedal driving,” said Bolt EV Chief Engineer Josh Tavel. “They will be able to tailor the vehicle to their preferred driving style and maximize their range.”
The 2017 Bolt EV will feature four selectable driving modes for drivers to tailor their experience. They include:
- Operating in Drive and easing off the accelerator.
- Operating in Drive and using the Regen on Demand paddle on the back of the steering wheel.
- Operating in Low and easing off the accelerator.
- Operating in Low and using the Regen on Demand paddle in tandem.
Mode one is a traditional experience, which requires the brake pedal for a complete stop. Modes two through four are progressively stronger one-pedal driving modes. However, in none of these cases should the 2017 Bolt EV be trusted to stop itself in an emergency.
In simulated models, Chevrolet found the system to increase the Bolt EV’s range by up to five percent during heavy stop-and-go traffic.
Chevrolet has yet to dish out official range figures for the 2017 Bolt EV, but technology like this should help it push past original 200-mile range estimations.
Comments
GM underpromises and overdelivers. So the Bolt EV will give over 200 miles of range. The 5% extra will; add another 10 to 11 miles.
Still want to see a Buick Bolt ASAP. Only one model that is the top trim level of the Chevy.