chevrolet introduces bolt, an affordable long-range electric concept car

chevrolet introduces bolt, an affordable long-range electric concept car
all images courtesy of chevrolet

during the 2015 north american auto show in detroit, chevrolet confirmed its commitment to electrification with the introduction of the long range ‘bolt’ EV concept – a vision for an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle designed to offer more than 200 miles of range starting around $30,000 USD. leveraging a system similar to that of the ‘volt‘ and ‘spark EV’, the newest addition to the chevy family offers drivers an option to select operating modes designed around preferred driving styles such as daily commuting and weekend cruising. these modes adjust accelerator pedal mapping, vehicle ride height and suspension tuning.

‘we have made tremendous strides in technologies that make it easier and more affordable for chevrolet customers to integrate an all-electric vehicle in their daily lives,’ said general motors ceo mary barra. ‘the bolt EV concept demonstrates general motors’ commitment to electrification and the capabilities of our advanced EV technology.’

the bolt EV concept also pushes the envelope for crossover aesthetics. its unique proportion, with practically no front or rear overhang, makes the most of interior space and was designed to create a roomy environment for four that feels expansive. lightweight materials, including aluminum, magnesium, carbon fiber and even woven mesh, complement the design, while driving down the curb weight to help maximize range. aero-optimizing features such as vented rear fenders also help contribute to range. high-intensity, efficient light-emitting diode (LED) headlamp and tail-light elements are housed behind jewel-like faceted lenses in which translucent elements illuminate evenly to create the signature lighting effect.

the electric four door hatchback is chevrolet’s vision for an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle

the bolt EV concept has been designed to support DC fast charging

the overall interior ambiance is enhanced with bold use of glass all around – as well as a full-length, frosted glass roof with unique, faceted design elements. a high belt-line sweeps upward with the D-pillar, culminating in an integrated roof spoiler, for a lean, athletic stance. an advanced nano-composite rear hatch and wraparound rear window give the four door hatch a distinctive appearance and flood the interior with more natural light. a dual-cockpit layout incorporates easy-to-use technology designed to make the driving experience easier and more enjoyable. it wraps into the door panels and features a frosted and translucent appearance – and a subtle glow at night.

a large, color 10-inch-diagonal capacitive-touch screen, with interface features allows the projection of all the application and other smartphone data onto the screen. the technology enables passengers – via a smartphone with the ‘concept bolt EV connect app’ – to open doors with the touch of a button, allow ride-sharing management, including reservations, vehicle location, digital key and even payment processing and even incorporate the concept automatic park-and-retrieval technology, which gives the driver the freedom to exit the vehicle and let the vehicle autonomously park itself. when errands are completed, the parked car can be called to return to the owner’s location.