TEARING INTO THE CHEVY BOLT EV - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 385

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline After Hours features Sandy Munro's detailed tear-down of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, commissioned by UBS. The discussion reveals that the Bolt's manufacturing cost was significantly lower than anticipated, approximately $4,000 less than UBS's estimates, largely due to its reliance on LG Chem for the battery, propulsion system, and electronics. While GM initially faced criticism for the Bolt's design and cost, the analysis suggests a more positive outlook for the "B" model (Bolt) compared to the "V" model (Volt). The review highlights the advancements in battery technology, particularly the potential cost reduction with the move to 811 chemistry, and touches upon the long-term cost of ownership parity with internal combustion engines in Europe by 2025. Despite its utilitarian design and the fact that GM still incurs a loss per vehicle, the Bolt is praised for its driving dynamics and overall quality, though its appeal is limited by the market's current preference for crossovers over hatchbacks.