Chevrolet Bolt 2017 EV Review: Better than Tesla Model 3 with 238-Mile Range

Sep 18, 2016 08:03 AM EDT

The 2017 Chevy Bolt EV is better than Tesla Model 3 in two aspects: a range of more than 200 miles and a base price below $40,000. The Bolt EV's affordability and higher mileage are some of its awesome features that makes it stand out against other electric cars in the market.

Now, here's the latest about Chevrolet Bolt 2017 EV release date, specs and price.

Earlier this year, General Motors (GM) initially said the Bolt EV will have 200 miles in a single charge. Surprisingly, the car maker increased the car's range by 238 miles, making it the first mainstream electric vehicle with range over 200 miles.

For comparison, Tesla's Model S and Model X only offer 200 miles of range, and their higher prices keep them out of reach for most of car lovers. Also, most of electric cars in the market only muster 100 miles of range.

According to GM officials, the 2017 Chevy Bolt has 240-volt charger that will add 50 miles of range in less than two hours. In addition, the electric car has optional 480-volt quick charger that can add around 90 miles of range in just 30 minutes of charging. On the other hand, the Bolt's 7.2-kW onboard charger needs roughly 8.5 hours to fully recharge its battery.

A report from Car and Driver says the 2017 Bolt's electric motor pumps out 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for running through city traffic or passing on the highway. The same report claims the car has an EPA-rated range of 238 miles per charge and 119 MPGe combined.

Inside, there's 10.2-inch infotainment screen which provides essential information for EV driving and charging. Plus, there's a screen for driving scorecard that rates things like climate-control usage, driving technique and terrain.

The first batch of Bolt EV is expected to be delivered before the year ends. In March, the car went into production phase at GM's Warren Assembly plant in Michigan. GM officials said the electric vehicle is set to hit dealerships by December. 

For those who want to experience the Bolt early, they will have a chance to ride as a passenger if they hail a ride from Lyft, according to Forbes. Chevrolet will reportedly deliver many early production models of the Bolt to the Lfyt Express this fall.

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