2020 CHEVY BOLT EV ROAD TRIP PT. 3: CHEERIO TO TEXAS

EV Channels Review

This installment of the 2020 Chevy Bolt EV road trip focuses on charging strategies across East Texas. The reviewer contrasts two approaches: frequent, shorter charging stops (6-65% or 12-48% state of charge) versus longer stops to achieve a higher state of charge (6-96%). Data from Electrify America stations in Bellmead, Royse City, and Mt. Pleasant reveals that the shorter charging strategy is both faster and cheaper. Specifically, two shorter stops totaling 76 minutes and costing $12.35 were more efficient than one longer 104-minute stop costing $16.72. The reviewer notes that even with added time for getting on and off the highway, the shorter stop strategy saves approximately 28 minutes and $4.37. While the Bolt EV's efficiency is noted as slightly lower than expected in flat Texas terrain at highway speeds (around 3.7 miles/kWh), the charging experience itself is described as predictable and seamless, with most stations being online and functional. The video highlights the practical trade-offs in planning charging stops for electric vehicles.