As the beginning of Spring looms pleasantly over all of us here at the Powerhouse, much of our attention is focused on how automakers worldwide are pledging to help the environment. During the annual CERAWeek energy conference in Houston, GM CEO Mary Barra announced that due to increasing global demand, Bolt EV production will be ramped up heavily, at the Orion Assembly plant north of Detroit. Even though specific levels were not immediately discussed, a target of around 30,00 units per year has been spoken of in many circles lately.
There is a grave importance regarding the need to remove barriers to consumer acceptance of Electronic Vehicles. All of us here do believe that the energy industry and other stakeholders must partner with auto manufacturers do develop a healthy infrastructure for charging, that drives consumers' confidence that they can drive their EV's in many various locations. Last year, our brand proudly announced an expansion of electric car plans, to add 2 new electric vehicles based on the bolt EV platform within the next 18 months, and 18 more within the next 5 years.
The base LT trim comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, HID headlights, a rearview camera, single-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry/start, an 8.0-inch re-configurable display, and Chevy's MyLink infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen. Ask us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse about the Premiere Trim level: this is where you gain leather upholstery, a 360-degree view camera system, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, heated front and rear seats, blind spot warning, rear parking sensors, and rear-cross traffic alert.
During IIHS testing, last year's Bolt EV received a score of “good” on all crash tests except for the headlight module, and also gleaned a “Superior” rating on the front crash prevention test after it avoided a 12- and a 25-mph collision. This resulted in the model receiving the Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for the year. You'll also enjoy 16.9 cubic feet of cargo space, located behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. When the seats are folded down all of the way, this is expanded to 56.6 cubic feet. The cars section of U.S. News deemed this year's Bolt as having “zippy performance and a spacious interior”, and commended it for its long range, fast charging time, and more than ample power.
The Bolt boasts one of the longest ranges for electric currently available: at 238 miles, you can replenish the battery overnight by use of a 240-volt charger. Ask us here at the Powerhouse about the hundreds of dollars annually you can save on gas, as we anticipate heightened production of the nation's most sophisticated electrical auto option!
