How One-Pedal Driving Gives The 2017 Bolt EV Even More Range

A recent announcement by General Motors states that the 2017 Bolt EV will offer “one-pedal driving”, which uses regenerative braking to maximize the vehicle’s total range. Unsure what any of this means? Boiled down, regenerative braking gives this electric vehicle the ability to recapture large amounts of energy and use it to recharge the battery. If the regenerative braking system is powerful enough, it can almost completely cut out the need of using the brake pedal, hence, we have one-pedal driving.

“Bolt EV customers who want an engaging experience will love the thrill of one-pedal driving. They will be able to tailor the vehicle to their preferred driving style and maximize their range.” said Bolt EV Chief Engineer, Josh Tavel.

A test run by Chevrolet engineers found that nearly 5 percent of of range can be added to the Bolt EV when using one-pedal driving. Drivers are able to customize the experience to fit their needs with four different modes, which include:

• Operating in Drive and easing off the accelerator
• Operating in Drive and using the Regen on Demand paddle on the back of the steering wheel
• Operating in Low and easing off the accelerator
• Operating in Low and using the Regen on Demand paddle in tandem

According to a recent Chevrolet press release, number 1 provides the lowest level of regen braking and still requires the use of the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a stop. Numbers 2-4 are progressively stronger and, when using them in certain situations, the driver will be able to stop the Bolt without the brake pedal.

Electric vehicle enthusiasts are excited about this technology making its way to the Chevrolet Bolt. By using regenerative braking, this vehicle has the ability to surpass its already 200+ miles of range… and that’s what it’s all about!

We’ll keep you posted on its arrival to Knoxville!