What's New
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV gets a significant refresh inside and out - its first major update since its debut in 2017. A larger SUV-styled Bolt EUV joins the line-up. Both models utilize the same powertrain, which carries over from 2021.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Bolt EV is available in two trims. The 1LT is priced significantly less than before and starts at $31,995 while the 2LT trim is $35,195. For some buyers, this price cut could make the Bolt a more appealing choice than in the past.
Note that the Bolt is no longer eligible for a federal tax credit. However, state plug-in rebates like the California Clean Vehicle Rebate offer up to $2,000 in additional savings in the form of a post-purchase incentive.
Engine Choices
The Bolt EV is powered by the carryover electrical powertrain from last year's model. Its 65 kWh battery pack helps achieve 259 miles of range and 120 MPGe, according to EPA estimates, and provides enough power to hustle the hatchback to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds.
The Bolt is compatible with DC Fast Charging stations to gain up to 100 miles of range in 30 minutes while a new, dual-level charge cord allows for Level 1 and Level 2 plug styles. A 240-volt outlet will fully recharge the Bolt in about seven hours.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
The 2022 Bolt EV remains a five-passenger hatchback and is very similar in size to last year’s design despite the updated styling. Its compact size measures 263 inches long and it rides on a 102.4-inch wheelbase - both of which help enable a city-friendly 34.8-foot turning circle.
Its rear seat affords 36 inches of legroom and the tall roofline allows for a generous 37.9 inches of headroom. The cargo area fits 16.6 cubic feet of space which can expand to 57 cubic feet with the seatbacks folded.
Safety Features
The least expensive Bolt EV trim includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a forward-distance indicator and is available with the $495 Driver Confidence Package that adds blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert.
The 2LT trim includes those safety features as standard equipment and adds an HD surround-view camera system. Adaptive cruise control is bundled in a $970 package and only the Bolt EUV is offered with GM Super Cruise, the automaker's hands-free driving assist system.
The 2022 model has not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.
Connectivity
A 10.2-inch touchscreen display is standard on all trims and is powered by Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 Plus system that incorporates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and 4G LTE.
A Bose seven-speaker sound system is available on the 2LT trim within the $595 Infotainment Package that also includes wireless device charging, and two charging ports for the rear passengers.
The 2022 Bolt EV features exterior updates that include revised front and rear bumpers, new 17-inch wheels, and redesigned LED headlights and taillights that contribute to a fresher look. The interior instrument panel is entirely new with contemporary styling and plenty of horizontal lines that make it look upscale.
The old gear-shift lever is tossed in favor of a button arrangement, the seats have been redesigned and offer six-way manual adjustment for the driver, and the steering wheel controls no longer feel like a weather-proof game controller.
The base trim is standard with an eight-inch digital gauge cluster, proximity entry, and automatic climate control and offers the $945 Comfort and Convenience Package (which first requires the selection of the Driver Confidence Package) which adds an eight-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Bolt EV 2LT is standard with the features of the Comfort and Convenience Package and further includes perforated leather seats, ambient instrument panel lighting, and uniquely styled alloy wheels. The $595 Infotainment Package is the only package offered.
Compare Bolt EV Trims Side-By-Side
The restyled Bolt EV remains a very practical vehicle. Efficient, compact, and now with a lower price, the 1LT trim with the Comfort and Convenience package helps the Bolt meet the feature expectations for a small car in this price range while also being more accessible than ever before.