2020 Bolt EV Pre-Orders Begin... Performance Up, Price Unchanged

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Chevrolet Korea GM has unveiled the '2020 Bolt EV' and will begin pre-orders from the 9th.

The newly released 2020 model of the Chevrolet Bolt EV features a class-leading single-charge driving range of 414 km, which is 31 km longer than the previous model.

Kaher Kazem, President of GM Korea, stated, "The new Bolt EV dramatically increases driving range, completely alleviating electric vehicle consumers' concerns about range anxiety." He added, "Designed under the leadership of GM Korea's Design Center, the Bolt EV offers a spacious interior based on the only dedicated electric vehicle platform in its class, optimized driving performance, and electric vehicle-specific infotainment systems and convenience features, providing consumers with the highest satisfaction."

The Bolt EV satisfies both excellent efficiency and dynamic performance simultaneously. The upgraded 66kWh large-capacity new battery pack consists of 288 lithium-ion battery cells supplied by LG Chem, operated with an optimal thermal management system to maximize efficiency and battery life. This enables the longest single-charge driving range of 414 km among electric vehicles in its class, and fast charging can replenish 80% of the battery capacity in just one hour.

Junha Hwang, Executive Director of GM Technical Center Korea, emphasized, "The Bolt EV maximizes battery energy so consumers can confidently undertake long-distance driving. Chevrolet was able to significantly increase the single-charge driving range without changing the size or structure of the battery pack by applying the latest battery technology developed in collaboration with LG Chem."

Additionally, the Bolt EV is equipped with a Regen On Demand system, allowing drivers to actively control regenerative energy generation via paddle switches located behind the steering wheel, maximizing driving range. It also features a new concept regenerative braking system called the One-Pedal Driving system, which enables acceleration and deceleration to a complete stop using only the accelerator pedal without operating the brake pedal, enhancing energy efficiency and providing a unique driving experience.

The powertrain includes a high-performance 150kW single motor electric drive unit delivering a maximum output of 204 horsepower and a peak torque of 36.7 kg.m, achieving dynamic performance by accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds.

The battery pack is horizontally mounted under the vehicle body to lower the center of gravity, ensuring excellent driving stability. The electronic precision gear shift and electric power steering system optimized for electric vehicles complete outstanding handling performance.

Exterior colors and convenience features have also been upgraded. The 2020 Bolt EV offers six exterior colors, including Ibiza Blue, which received favorable reviews on the Trailblazer, and the newly added Midnight Black, expanding customer choices. Additionally, the dual-port grille with a newly applied three-dimensional design pattern adds sophistication.

Various options have been significantly added. A digital surround vision camera that monitors the vehicle's surroundings in real-time during parking has been newly applied, and the existing analog rear camera has been upgraded to a digital system, providing superior image quality. Advanced safety systems that received positive reviews in previous models, such as lane departure warning and lane keeping assist, low-speed automatic emergency braking, forward pedestrian detection and braking system, and smart high beam, remain applied.

The Bolt EV achieves a spacious interior relative to the vehicle size through an electric vehicle-optimized space configuration. In particular, the optimal battery pack placement that does not compromise interior space, along with the crossover-style high roof and wide wheelbase, secures headroom and legroom exceeding that of compact cars.

The 2020 Bolt EV is notable for freezing the selling price despite increased battery capacity, which accounts for a large portion of the cost, and additional product enhancements. Excluding government and local government electric vehicle purchase subsidies, the Bolt EV prices, applying the reduced individual consumption tax, are ▲LT 45.93 million KRW, ▲LT Deluxe 46.93 million KRW, and ▲Premier 48.14 million KRW.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.