Media Takes 'Chevrolet Bolt' for A Test Spin, Produces Impressive Results
Just recently, Chevrolet had allowed media outlets to take the newly built Chevrolet Bolt to a test spin, and despite initial fears caused by the recent emergence of electric and hybrid cars, results have been positive, thus far.
According to a preview by Wired, the consumer-friendly Bolt clocked in a range of 239.9 miles in its odometer, with the range indicator stating that it can still go on an additional 23-mile run - a huge contrast in comparison to EPA's earlier readings, pegging that the Chevy Bolt can go as far as 238 miles.
Furthermore, Wired's test drive has indicated that the Chevy Bolt is capable of producing decent speeds without making much use of its battery power. In 6.5 seconds, the Bolt can traverse an average speed of 60mph from a standstill, a feat unseen in other entry-level vehicles.
Tim Stevens of CNet also took the Bolt for a trial, and has stated utmost praise for the product.
In addition, Stevens commented that the Bolt bore a few similarities with the Honda Fit and the Ford C-Max, musing that it "looks much bigger on the inside than it does on the outside. This alone is not particularly notable for a modern car, but it is still a bit of a rarity for an EV."
Stevens also voiced a positive feedback with the manner its battery packs were arranged.
"Most battery-powered machines feature interiors vastly compromised by the need to make room for big, bulky battery packs. Not here. The pack slots in beneath the front seats and runs beneath the rear, where it doubles up beneath the rear cushions. This does result in a higher seating position than in many cars of this sort, but it also provides a nice flat floor between the rear seats and, crucially, a spacious trunk."
A drastic departure from other hybrid electric cars, the Chevrolet Bolt has a low starting price of $37,500, and presents a wide-range of specifications akin to that of a Tesla model. As of writing, Chevy has received 400,000 deposits from potential buyers of the Bolt, and it might increase once the release date draws nearby.
