Chevrolet has confirmed it will produce the Bolt EV concept at its Orion Assembly plant just outside of Detroit. The concept, introduced at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit last month, was developed “as a game-changing, long-range pure electric for all 50 states, designed to offer more than a GM-estimated 200 miles of range at a target price of around $30,000,” according to Chevrolet.
General Motors North America President Alan Batey says Chevy fast tracked production of the Bolt due to its potential importance in the automotive marketplace. We have a feeling Chevy would also like to make sure the production version of the Bolt arrives well before Tesla’s planned $30,000 model.
“The message from consumers about the Bolt EV concept was clear and unequivocal: Build it,” Batey said ahead of the Chicago Auto Show. “We are moving quickly because of its potential to completely shake up the status quo for electric vehicles.”
Official details on the production version of the Bolt are still few and far between, with Chevy only saying the car will have selectable driving modes for different driving styles. The car will also support DC fast-charging, just as cars from BMW’s ‘i’ brand and other competing EVs do.
GM also announced it is investing $200 million in its Orion Assembly and Pontiac metal center plant to accommodate production of the Bolt. Orion will receive $160 million for tooling and equipment updates, while Pontiac will get the remaining $40 million for new dies.
“We’re proud that Chevrolet has decided to produce the Bolt EV here in Michigan at the Orion Assembly facility,” Gov. Rick Snyder said. “Michigan unquestionably remains the global automotive leader. Chevrolet is tapping a skilled workforce that includes some of the most talented and hard-working people in the world for this cutting-edge vehicle. Chevrolet is an important part of our state’s automotive history, and Michigan-made products like the Bolt EV point to a bright future as well.”
All that remains is one question: what will GM eventually call the production model?
Comments
Cool!
As the top(only) Volt salesman at my dealership (THREE whole Volts in a year!) I am very excited about this car, the Spark EV coming East to Maryland, (and hopefully PA soon too) and of course the 2016 Volt 2.0 ,as well.
My only personal quandary: Would I be NUTS to wait for the “Bolt” , or should I buy a used Spark EV for under the 17K that new ones effectively price at after federal and local rebates and tax credits….I’m leaning towards the Spark……..and then maybe trading on the “Bolt” after the first year…
Exciting times to be a car guy or woman! We may not get our jetpacks, but these are the next best things!
Do not change the design of this CUV winner in any way , at all . Excellent greenhouse , the right size and offer it with a gas engine as well …..SOON !!!!