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Thursday, January 14, 2016

More About 2017 Chevy Bolt’s Electric Powertrain

Balance of range, performance focus of engineers and designers for Chevrolet’s new all-electric hatchback

With the reveal of Chevrolet’s latest endeavor, the 2017 Bolt EV looks to add an all-electric punch to Chevy’s offerings. The Bolt is scheduled to go on sale in 48 states, and that includes Missouri and the Mid MO Powerhouse.

What’s amazing is not just the electric powertrain itself (which is amazing) but also the capabilities of the Bolt. General Motors estimates the Bolt to have an EV range of more than 200 miles on a full charge. The drivability of the Bolt feels more like a sedan than a small hatchback which will make some hybrid sedan fans feel better about the Bolt. The chief engineer of the Bolt knew this would be an important point for hybrid owners.

“Being the leader in range and affordability means nothing if the car isn’t going to excite you each time you get behind the wheel,” Josh Tavel, Chevrolet Bolt EV chief engineer, said. “That’s why the team was tasked with delivering a propulsion system that would also make the Bolt EV an electric vehicle that owners would love to drive.”

Bolt’s battery

The Chevrolet Volt has logged more than a billion miles in its lifetime across the U.S., and the crews at Chevy found what works and applied it to the Bolt. An all-new cell and battery resulted from a partnership with LG Electronics helps the 200-mile estimated range.

The battery system is 960 pounds of total weight and consists of 288 lithium ion cells and a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. According to Chevrolet, the battery uses active thermal conditioning, similar to the Chevrolet Volt, to keep the battery operating at its optimum temperature, which results in solid battery life performance.

Bolt’s drive unit

The new Chevy Bolt EV can reach 0-60 mph in less than seven seconds which is impressive for an all-electric vehicle. Chevrolet said the electric motor is capable of producing up to 266 lb.-ft. torque and 200 horsepower.

To learn more about the 2017 Chevy Bolt, to reserve a Bolt in central Missouri or to schedule a Chevy test drive, contact the Mid MO Powerhouse online or give us a call at 573-799-4618!

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