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Chevy Bolt EV Concept vs. Production Bolt EV vs. Facelift Bolt EV: Comparison

The Chevy Bolt EV is a key model in General Motors’ lineup, leading the charge in the automaker’s push to launch 30 new electric vehicles by 2025. However, to get to where it is now, the Chevy Bolt EV has undergone several changes and updates over the years, evolving from the initial concept vehicle, to the first-generation production model, to the current refreshed model. Now, we’re lining up all three in the following GM Authority Comparison.

General Motors pulled the sheets on the original Chevy Bolt EV concept at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, while the production model was unveiled in 2016 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. More recently, the refreshed 2022 Chevy Bolt EV was revealed alongside the all-new 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV in February of this year, marking the sixth model year for the first-generation vehicle.

Looking at all three models side by side, the lineage is obvious. All three have a small five-door hatchback / crossover body style with smooth body lines and geometric shapes. The front fascia is dominated by a large central bumper and blocked-off grille section, above which are thin headlamps that are pulled back into the fenders.

Moving into the profile, we find a teardrop-shaped window line, which is complemented by polished chrome trim. The body itself also has a teardrop shape to it. The side body lines are underlined by black lower cladding that runs around the lower perimeter of the body. We also spot continuity in the wheel design with a five-spoke layout.

The rear end of all three Chevy Bolt EV models emphasizes the hatchback proportions with a square, vertical rear door section. The two production models are also notable for incorporating a “floating roof” design, wherein the window line flows into the rearmost pillar with black cladding, giving the illusion that the roof is disconnected from the rest of the body.

The tail lamps form a horizontal plane that visually emphasizes the vehicles’ width. Notably, the latest 2022 Chevy Bolt EV looks as though it is closer to the concept in terms of the tail lamp design, with thinner housings compared to the teardrop-shaped tail lamps of the pre-refresh model.

Built on the GM BEV2 platform, the latest Chevy Bolt EV is powered by a 65-kWh lithium-ion battery juicing a single-drive electric motor, sending 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. Range-per-charge is rated at 259 miles. Plugged into a standard DV quick-charger, the 2022 Chevy Bolt EV can net 100 miles of range in just 30 minutes.

With GM gearing up to release a deluge of new all-electric vehicles, the evolution of the Chevy Bolt EV provides a great reference point for what we can expect in terms of GM’s all-electric model styling. Rest assured GM Authority will be there every step of the way as GM makes the transition to an all-electric future.

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Jonathan is an automotive journalist based out of Southern California. He loves anything and everything on four wheels.

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Comments

  1. I love my ’17 Bolt. Styling wise, however, I do feel there are too many details competing for attention rather than working together towards a unified, well defined design.

    Reply
  2. Yeah.
    The Bolt is so important to GM they won’t even keep the ones they’ve sold from catching fire.

    Just a software update to hide the problem.

    Reply
  3. Will GM ever release a set of hybrid vehicles to compete with Toyota and Honda? GM is quoting 259 miles in summer weather and perfect conditions. Convert the miles to winter driving what is the resulting distance, how far does one travel.

    If GM going to support a standard where a GM vehicles will be able to get a charge anywhere. Tesla is able to drive from Toronto to Florida and has recharging sessions available during the whole trip. I do not see extended drives given that the GM advertising implies one need to charge at home before using the vehicle.

    A friend Drive their Trius from California to Toronto and back without any troubles driving extended hours each day without worrying about running out of battery. Fuel mileage each day averaged between 59 to 60 miles a gallon each day.

    If GM goes from traditional gas/diesel powered vehicles to EV only options it is not going to very easy to retain GMs existing customers especially when the vehicle owners must drive when the temperature drops significantly resulting in significant range capabilies for an EV vehicle.

    Reply
    1. Agreed. I personally think a hybrid/plug-in hybrid Equinox/Terrain would make a great stepping stone to EVs and help bridge the gap.

      Reply
    2. My Volt was pretty good. Though there were intentional design choices made to limit its appeal.

      Engine, transmission and electric motors were flawless.

      It would easily scale up to their current offerings.

      Reply
    3. Yea it’s called Hummer..

      Reply

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