MotorTrend Deems 2020 Chevy Bolt Range Higher Than Tesla Model 3

It was not that long ago when severe anxiety over electric vehicle range was common. Motor Trend ran a story on their blog last week depicting the progress that has occurred with the range issue for electric vehicles, and the very solid rise in final range for the 2020 Chevy Bolt! The EPA-estimated range for this electric hatchback is now up to 259 miles, a 21-mile increase from last year's 238-mile peak. A 9-percent increase is a gain that will surely turn heads: considering the current state of public charging availability, EV drivers have to scrutinize every single mile during a trip.

We have all been in a situation where another 20 or so miles of driving range would be a game-changer, making or breaking your latest planned journey. Boosting the Bolt's range was much like a world-class barbecue joint's strategy that one would find right here in Knoxville, and involved a bit of “secret sauce”! Engineers went hard to work on altering the cell chemistry of the car's 60-kW-hr lithium-ion power source, making each electrode more energy-dense. The task was completed without any physical changes to the battery pack, so its not any larger or heavier in the long run.

The new model will also start at the exact same price as last year, and will include 200 horsepower, 266 lb-ft front-wheel-drive powertrain, with a 120-volt portable charge cord to provide the necessary juice. DC fast charging capability is also an option, and this range boost now gives the Bolt bragging rights of beating out the entry-level Tesla Model 3, which is situated at 240 miles. Year by year the range has been improving, and Chevy now also trumps the Volkswagen e-Golf, which still crosses the all-important range finish line at just 125 miles.

There are now Oasis Blue and Cayenne Orange Metallic exterior, as well as the All-weather floor liner. The HD Rear Vision Camera replaces the standard Rear Vision Camera, and HD Surround Vision replaces the UVH Surround Vision. What would all of us on staff here at West Chevy of Knoxville like to see for the future? One feature that Tesla provided that could work wonders is the ability to preheat the battery before heading to a DC fast charger in harsh winter conditions, helping in the long run during a time when you need juice in a hurry. One thing that is absolutely certain is that change is rapid and abundant in the electric vehicle marketplace right now, and as consumers will undeniably expect more and more, we will keep you posted about important updates as they come across our desk!