While the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV are slated to end production this year, the Bolt EUV continues to make waves, recently debuting in Brazil and setting a remarkable range record. General Motors marked the launch with an efficiency challenge that saw the Bolt EUV travel an astounding 560 miles (901.8 kilometers) on a single charge. This feat nearly doubles the official WLTP range for the Brazilian market and significantly surpasses the EPA-estimated range of 247 miles, demonstrating the true potential of the Chevy Bolt Euv Range under optimal conditions.
This impressive achievement was the result of a dedicated 28-hour and 30-minute efficiency challenge at GM Brazil’s Proving Grounds in Indaiatuba, Sao Paulo. Over 70 participants, including journalists, influencers, customers, dealers, partners, and GM employees, took turns driving three Bolt EUV vehicles. The test was conducted on a 2.7-mile (4.3-kilometer) round track designed to simulate a flat, straight road, ideal for maximizing energy efficiency. The primary goal was to determine the maximum distance achievable using the full 66 kilowatt-hours of energy stored in the Chevy Bolt EUV battery, focusing on driving techniques that minimize energy consumption.
Record-Breaking Chevy Bolt EUV Range Achieved in Brazil
The efficiency challenge highlighted the exceptional Chevy Bolt EUV range capabilities when driven with a focus on energy conservation. The 560-mile record dramatically exceeds both the WLTP and EPA estimates, showcasing the vehicle’s potential in real-world conditions, especially when employing hypermiling techniques. This test underscores that the Chevy Bolt EUV range can be significantly extended beyond official ratings through mindful driving habits and optimized conditions.
Inside the Efficiency Challenge
The key to unlocking the extended Chevy Bolt EUV range was maintaining a low average speed of approximately 22 mph (35 kph). This consistent, slow pace allowed the team to maximize the energy extracted from the battery over the long duration of the test. Drivers changed shifts to keep the vehicles running continuously for over a day, aiming to fully deplete the battery while adhering to strict energy-saving protocols. The vehicle that achieved the longest range recorded an average energy consumption of just 7.2 kWh per 100 kilometers, a testament to the efficiency possible with the Bolt EUV.
Driving Techniques for Optimal EV Range
Participants in the Chevy Bolt EUV range challenge were instructed to employ specific driving techniques to minimize energy usage. These included avoiding sudden acceleration and harsh braking, which are known to be significant drains on EV batteries. Furthermore, comfort features that consume energy, such as air conditioning, seat heating, and steering wheel heating, were intentionally disabled. GM Brazil also ensured that all vehicles operated with optimal tire pressures and that the test was conducted under favorable climate conditions, avoiding extreme temperatures that can negatively impact battery performance due to increased energy demand for cooling or heating.
Chevy Bolt EUV in Brazil and the Future of GM EVs
While the Chevy Bolt EUV will have a limited release in Brazil, with GM offering it in a single batch, this range achievement highlights the vehicle’s capabilities to the Brazilian market. Although the Bolt EV hatchback has been available in Brazil since 2019, the Bolt EUV crossover is expected to be a rarer sight. Looking ahead, General Motors is transitioning to its next generation of electric vehicles in Brazil, starting in mid-2024. The automaker has confirmed that the Blazer EV and Equinox EV will be introduced to the local market, signaling GM’s continued commitment to expanding its EV presence in Brazil even after the Bolt EV and EUV models are discontinued.
In conclusion, the Chevy Bolt EUV range test in Brazil served as a powerful demonstration of electric vehicle efficiency and the potential for exceeding official range estimates. By employing mindful driving techniques and optimizing conditions, the Bolt EUV proved capable of achieving an exceptional 560-mile range, reinforcing its position as a compelling option in the electric crossover market, even as production nears its end.
