TOP 5 THINGS I LOVE & HATE ABOUT THE CHEAPEST NEW EV YOU CAN BUY

EV Channels Review

The Chevrolet Bolt EV 1LT is presented as the most affordable new EV on the market, with a purchase price of $26,000, potentially dropping to $18,000-$19,000 after tax credits. The reviewer highlights impressive range (259 miles EPA) and battery capacity (65 kWh) for the price, along with a capable 11.5 kW onboard AC charger. Interior space is praised as surprisingly generous for a compact hatchback, and the technology suite, including a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a crisp backup camera, is considered excellent for the cost. The primary drawback identified is the difficulty and frustration of the dealer purchasing process, with markups and added packages often pushing the final price above MSRP, negating some of the affordability advantage. Other criticisms include uncomfortable seats with insufficient thigh support, a cheap-feeling plastic steering wheel on the 1LT trim, flimsy trunk trim, and a lack of a numerical state-of-charge display. DC fast charging is also noted as slow, with a peak rate of only 55 kW, yielding about 100 miles of range in 30 minutes. Despite these issues, the reviewer concludes that if purchased at MSRP, the Bolt EV is an excellent, quiet, and comfortable vehicle for daily commuting and saving money.