Episode 91 - 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Review

May 13, 2020
My take after spending some quality time with a beautiful Oasis Blue MY2020 (slightly refreshed) GM Bolt EV! I’ll provide some stats, driving impressions and thoughts about this all-electric hatchback!
Thanks to GM Canada and Boyer Chevrolet in Pickering, ON for the vehicle!
As always, I welcome any feedback and questions! Thanks for Watching!
Please subscribe and click the "bell" icon to be automatically notified when a new show is posted
CANADIAN EV INCENTIVE INFORMATION LINK:
www.tc.gc.ca/en...
*** Oscar and Hamish Link:
oscarandhamish....
Use this link to get 10% off your order!
Comments and feedback always welcomed:
Email: [e-mail]
Twitter: @EVRevShow
Instagram: #evrevolutionshow
Audio Podcast Shows - Website: www.evrevolutionshow.com
My Patreon page (please consider supporting):
/ evrevolutionshow
My Gear:
Sony PXW-Z90 4K Camcorder
GoPro Hero 7 Black
DJI Osmo Pocket
Apple iPhone XS Max
Saramonic Wireless Lav and Handheld Mics
iRig Lav Mic Connectors for iPhone
RODE VideoMic
Zoom H6 Audio Recorder
Shure XLR Mics
Apple iMac i5 2017 5K
Apple iMove & Apple Final Cut Pro X Software
NOTE: Federal law allow citizens to reproduce, distribute , or exhibit portions of copyrighted material. This is called fair use and is allowed for the purpose of criticism, news reporting, teaching, and parody which doesn't infringe on copyright under 17 USC 107.

[@petertomich]

One of the most useful Bolt reviews I've seen so far. Down to earth, good production quality, straight talker. Thanks for making this available.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Peter, thanks for watching and for the kind feedback. I try to keep it for the non-EV consumers.

[@mosfet500]

2017 was 60 kWh: 2020 is 66.You forgot the regen paddle on the steering wheel. Good overall review - balanced.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! I briefly mentioned the paddle.

[@0ooTheMAXXoo0]

Was 60KWh battery, now 66KWh...

[@EVRevolution]

Yes it is thanks!

[@RobertArrowsmith]

Lovely blue color. I wish they made right hand steering for Australia. With a Holden badge....

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching Robert - hello to you and all my viewers in the land down under! Love your country! Hopefully more EVs will make it's shores as I know the current government is not too keen on pushing them.

[@johnfruh]

But, but, Holden is on it's death bed. GM has abandoned it and right hand drive. Don't you follow AutoExpert TV? Check out John Cadogan's take on Holden/GM in Oz here ... kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6ekXqeAgMmkbLM

[@gregandkaruna6674]

@@johnfruh Good riddance to Holden, especially the Craptiva!

[@johnfruh]

@@gregandkaruna6674 He, He. Holden death in Three, Two, One ... Dead as a door nail!

[@gergall1809]

@@johnfruh Same for UK and Ireland-Bolts were exported to Europe with no forthcoming RHD option,then Vauxhall/Opel (GM Uk/Europe) got sold off to Peugeot (PSA),Resulting in the E-208 and Corsa-E ..

[@annamariebohus4817]

Thanks for another interesting, informative episode! Love the colour of the Bolt Oasis Blue MY2020 . Nice car! Enjoyed your unbiased, well explained review, commentary, and watching your drive. Nice donuts, lol!! . . Btw, I saw your short vid about the snow in your area. Almost the middle of May! Our global climate is in dire crisis. Wish you well. Take care and stay safe.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed this episode and yes, things are not the same for sure!

[@Quickicecarreviews123]

Wow lane assist is only good for safety, not for maintaining lane for real. That kind of ping pong will get you pulled over quickly.

[@EVRevolution]

Yes that is my viewpoint as well.

[@gregandkaruna6674]

All new Toyota's get full adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist including lane trace and its standard across every trim level, even the new 2020 Toyota Yaris gets full TSS 2.0 also on every trim, and I see in Canada they start at just $16k yet a $50k EV lacks any of that and its an extra for the basic system!

[@barney2001]

Thanks Ken. A well balanced review. We have a 2017 Bolt and like it. Our friends Leaf is a more comfortable car, no question. But we were and still are put off with the lack of water cooling for the Leaf battery. As well, even the new 62 kWh Leaf doesn't have the range of our current Bolt. So when we bought, the Bolt was head and shoulders above the competition. The $14,000 Ontario rebate sure helped too. It is very disappointing that GM has coasted with this car. The biggest improvements in 3 years is a little more range and a better backup camera. Wow. At this point if we were in the market I would be looking at Kia and Hyundai. The Bolt seats are not comfortable for us but we bought the car as a second car. I have fast charged just once, at about 40 kW. Our lifestyle means this is a home and cottage charged vehicle so I can put up with the seats. Something you didn't cover is this is a torque monster. No problem spinning tires at 60 kph. The acceleration doesn't die like the Leaf at highway speed either. So good for passing as we live in 2 lane country. Would I buy it again? Probably not because others have caught up. Will we keep ours? Definitely, it was a good purchase, and we have a good dealer.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Ian, much thanks for watching, your feedback and for sharing your thoughts and experiences! For sure, the Bolt does have ATM and more range than the e+. I almost got the Bolt in 2018, however my wife could not get comfortable in it and that was a show stopper for us. Yes GM really could have done more with this in this timeframe I think too. It is a very good BEV in it's own right. Even with the slower rapid charging, for many that will be fine for the odd longer trips. Your use case is perfect. Torque I did give the spec and I think all understand the quick power you get from a BEV. I don't have any issues passing in 2 lane country either with my 40kWh Leaf, so the e+ is also even better. Glad you and your family are happy with you Bolt and also glad you joined the "Revolution" back in 2018 as did I!

[@Error6503]

Another 2017 owner here in the last few months of the lease and sadly it won't be kept or replaced with another Bolt; the narrow seats are just too painful (and I'm a slim guy). The range of the Bolt has never been a problem but the charge time is, so it's disappointing that they tweaked a few more miles for marketing purposes but didn't fix the real root of range anxiety ... having to sit for well over an hour to recharge. Most fast chargers near me limit you to 45 minutes which at the Bolt's 45kW gets you only half full, and at highway speeds (ie. 3 miles/kWh) you'll split 50/50 of your time between driving and charging. When GM released the Bolt, which was a year before estimated delivery of a Model 3, they claimed they'd release something like 12 EVs over the next 5 years but 3 years later all we have is the same car with most of the same flaws intact. Meanwhile hardly a week goes by without Tesla announcing some major new breakthrough, improvement or over-the-air update for current owners. I tried to back the underdog because I didn't want to see a one horse EV race, which would ultimately be good for no-one (even that one horse). But it looks like it was a bad bet on GM as their heart was just not in the competition.

[@ciuvic1984]

totally agree whit what Ian said. I’m the owner of 2018 Bolt. Driving 120 miles a day . That driver seat is killing my back.

[@quantumphaser]

And I thought Teal colored cars died in the 1990s...

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! Seems its a colour that never dies!

[@quantumphaser]

@@EVRevolution I'll be picking one up soon to replace my Prius to use as a delivery vehicle so it should be good for a set of videos as a high mileage eevee demo. I wish they would have fixed the seats for 2020

[@iused2BAfireman]

Good, fair Review. Not much different than my 2017 Bolt Premiere. Some differences on the infotainment screens and the camera operation at rest. Did not note if the rear view mirror camera, is that still a feature? The lane assist is not very good as you note, looks like no improvement over 2017 model. Your DCFC experience mirrors mine. At best, mid 40s on the charge. Disappointed no upgrade in that capability. Seats are too thin although after 3 years I'm used to them. Don't notice so much. I have 60K miles (96,560 Km) on my Bolt. I estimate my battery degradation about >8%. As far as navigation, I don't mind that I use iPhone with Waze, shows up on the screen as if it was built in, updates are more easily accomplished, the phone is usually plugged in anyway and the iPhone can multi-task. Bottom line with me. I save much $$$$$ ($200 US/month) EV vs ICE petrol fill-ups, oil changes, etc. But longer treks are problematic both because of the not so fast charging rate and the lingering scarcity of DCFC on the US side of the border here in WNY. A little less painful taking a trip in Southern Ontario due to the ever increasing charger network, but the charging rate makes each stop a test of patience. And the car is really fun to drive, especially in traffic (401!) with its quickness when you need it.

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and thanks for watching! Appreciate the feedback and I can see your experiences over the longer term mirror my short-term ones. As I said, the Bolt is a solid BEV choice and for many will do the job very very well - at a fraction of the operating costs! Yes it can be improved as really almost all of the BEVs out there and I hope it will be. Good to know about degradation but that it what I expected it to be, in that range. Very good. Yes, WNY is lacking and I hope some more infrastructure is coming.

[@dennislyon5412]

iused2BAfireman - perhaps you haven’t seen, but the Bolt can charge at 55 kw if the battery is warm enough, and the charger can deliver it. It starts tapering down around 50% battery, and the 2020 charge curve doesn’t drop off as much or as fast as the older ones (to around 40 kw, then down to 23 kw at less than 70%).

[@iused2BAfireman]

@@dennislyon5412 I have read about some improvement in the 2020 and my experience is mostly during cold weather. I did get a software update a few weeks ago but have not had occasion to test it since. I intend to do so at a local charger in warmer weather if spring ever comes to WNY!

[@dennislyon5412]

iused2BAfireman - did the dealer give you any grief about asking for the update? I’m in Mich, so could use a little cold weather help myself.

[@jimlambrick4642]

Here on Vancouver Island I didn't see any Bolts until about two years ago. Now see them everyday... along with lots of Kona's. So good to see something other than Model 3's and Leafs of which there are plenty. Even seeing EV's getting advertised, I suspect because that is the only car's that are selling right now.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Jim for watching! Love the island, I used to live there (served in RCN based in Esquimalt) and my companies HQ is in Victoria! Yes once you get an EV or know more of them, you tend to notice more on the roads! Funny how that works. EVs are selling but they to have been hit by the Pandemic slowdown. If you watch my last show Ep 90, I discuss Global Plug-In numbers and stats.

[@dr-k1667]

I hope people will buy it, the new color is very attractive and I think it will help introduce people to the wonderful world of EV driving.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks!

[@toljubojevic]

Great video, nice to see you in the review mode again!

[@EVRevolution]

Hey, thanks! Hard to get cars during this Pandemic. Pretty well most OEMs have closed their press fleets. I am on the waiting list for a couple more!

[@balkantvofficial]

i like the bolt more than the leaf and i had the tesla its shit as a car suspension needed changing after 6 months also battery replacement after 11 months EXPENSIVE SHIT bolt is amazing also the lane assist is just so you dont crash not to let the car go autonomous wich is also stupid in a tesla

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching. For future comments, please refrain from profanity as YT blocked your post but I have allowed it to be viewed by all. It's ok to be negative on a subject and criticize, but please do it in a civil and professional manner next time. I'm sorry for your bad experience with a Tesla product and the Bolt is a fine BEV!

[@Quickicecarreviews123]

The lights should be able to be changed to LED cheaply. I changed all minibulbs on my 13 Camry for 12.99 used Chinese co on amazon with good reviews. Also LED front and fog lights can be bought cheaply with built in fans and heatsink. An easy and cheap way to upgrade.

[@EVRevolution]

I agree, but they really should be standard nowawdays.

[@MadmaxMusic93]

Ugly ass color ooof, no sunroof, no cooled seats, no memory seats, no powered seats, no adaptive cruise control, hell no pass a day, I love my 2019 ford fusion titanium hybrid, get a Tesla Model 3!!!! There the same damn price about especially a premier Bolt no brainier duhhhh

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching!

[@mashfirst]

I would not bother buying one right now until GM takes responsibility for the current recalls where the vehicle bursts in flames

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching!

[@tamick21]

The Chevy Bolt's lane assist is a disaster! It needs to be reprogrammed with a hotfix.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! With Super Cruise for highway, it works well. Non-SC, could use some work. Maybe in a software update.

[@brunothepug8807]

In US, I can buy a loaded LT for under $24K for a 2020. Is it a bargain at that price?

[@EVRevolution]

Hello Bruno, thanks for watching and yes that is a great price. Here the LT costs us almost double, even when factoring the FX rate! If you like the car and want an EV, the Bolt is a great machine!

[@bigchadsmall]

Late! But im still watching! Little later than usual i want a bolt so bad! I even kind of dig the color

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Chad. I too loved the colour and got many compliments from people on it. You may be able to find a good deal on one, depending on your region.

[@jackryder6732]

Dont understand why this GM massive company comes up with crapy technology ev when there is a deadly severe competition with Tesla. If you make something make it good. Or dont make one or you will get a bad impression and no one will ever care to look at your future good cars. What a joke

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching Jack! Remember that Tesla only does Battery Electric Vehicles. That's all they've done since their beginning and they are and should be the experts. All the other OEMs (Major) have reluctantly gotten into this market within the last decade. That is a really short period of time and 98% of their sales today are still ICE vehicles, so they put their money where the sales are. You have to remember that. A Goliath like GM and others don't turn on a dime and for them to re-focus, it takes billions of dollars and 5-10 years. Now in saying that, the Volt was a very good PHEV and the Bolt is really good too. With regards to range and overall functionality. For millions it is a great BEV that will satisfy their use cases easily. So I would not say the Bolt is a "joke" - it is a serious BEV. With Telsa setting the bar so high, because again that is all they do....many others seem less in comparison. However, not everyone is enamoured nor wants a Tesla, so we need more choice.

[@jackryder6732]

@@EVRevolution appreciate your reply. I understand

[@davidcampbell1899]

$53,000.00 for that little puppy turd of a car! You can keep it GM!

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and thanks for watching! Yes BEVs are more expensive than comparable ICEVs so that is why we still need incentives. It is still a very good all-electric!

[@gwarlow]

GM: Americans asked for an uninspiring underwhelmingly designed compliance EV, and we listened. Feast your eyes on the very best that one of the largest and longest running car makers in the world came up with... the Bolt! This car's sales record speaks for itself. Watch out Tesla and Hyundai!

[@learnedits5341]

lololooolololololololol

[@mikecarter2737]

A South Korean product, final assembly in US. Long live Daewoo design and engineering.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks all for watching! Hey, at least it is a BEV!

[@michaelhogan6770]

Last June paid $27,300 US in NJ, with no state sales tax.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! Wow that is a great price! And you will get basically a new battery pack and warranty!

[@AFlyingCookieLOL]

Bigger battery than over priced tesla m3 base model

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching!

[@flipperbear9]

Nice, but still missing the Tesla Supercharger network

[@markfitzpatrick6692]

Patrick Carroll we have the electrifyamerica.com network see plug and play ev videos on KZbin

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching Patrick. Yes for sure that is one of Tesla's most strong attributes. If the Bolt supported 100kW charging, that would make a world of difference.

[@EVRevolution]

Yes Mark that is true. I think what Patrick is referring to is Tesla's ability to charge their vehicles much faster than what, in this case, the Bolt can do today - even if plugged in to an EA EVSE. As you saw from my video, I went to an ultra-fast EVSE that provides up to 200kW of CCS power, and was only able to pull into the low-mid 40's. To me, that is disappointing as if I would take it for a long road trip, after about 3 hours or so of normal highway driving, I would need to stop for at least an hour to get back to the 80% range. That is too long IMO for such a capable battery pack as the Bolt has. It really should offer the ability to hit 80% in about 30 mins or less. That is where Tesla shines.

[@flipperbear9]

Speed is unpretentious but there is just more charging practically anywhere you'd go in North America at a cheaper price compared to the third party networks. It's the secret sauce that makes owning a Tesla easier and more valuable. I know the CEO is crazy sometimes.

[@xchopp]

Did they fix the front seats yet?

[@EVRevolution]

Don't think any modifications were done. As I stated, it is very subjective. I know lots of Bolt owners with original 2017's who love the car and have no problem with the seats. Thanks for watching!

[@johnguarino6891]

Nice job Ken 👍

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks 👍

[@ronaldfradet4033]

Well done ken

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Ronald!

[@turbomar6667]

Holy crap, I agree the ride is awful rough!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! Was not terrible, but noticeably more rougher than in my Leaf.

[@atlmz6]

👍🏾👍🏾 great review

[@EVRevolution]

I appreciate it, thanks for watching!

[@Tomgillchevy]

Great review. Thanks for sharing!

[@EVRevolution]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@erikstephens34]

Good fair review Ken. Your DC charge rate was slow because the battery was just a bit on the cooler side. The battery likes to be above 30C to hit maximum rate. The 2020 Bolt EV also has a new BMS that smooths out the charge curve on the high end which also improves DC charging a bit. As you probably know we own a 2018 Bolt EV. We drove it to Florida and back last March with no major issues. The seats are narrow and firm but personally I don't have an issue with them either. Some people may just prefer a more cushy seat. The suspension is also on the firm side. This is a tradeoff for better handling. The Bolt EV suspension was actually tuned by the Corvette team and apparently handles quite well despite it's rear torsion beam setup. Personally I don't like in car navigations because they mostly suck. Hard to beat google maps these days. GM's my chevrolet app also now has route planning through android auto but it still isn't a very smooth experience and needs some polishing to make it really useful. Of note GM has two Bolt's coming. A fully refreshed Bolt EV (same size) that was supposed to launch early this fall but because of Covid has been delayed to early 2021 (and will now be a 2022MY car). And in addition there will be a larger Bolt EUV which will have more features like a sunroof and the first GM non Cadillac to have a Supercruise option. This vehicle too will launch in early 2021 as a 2022 MY vehicle. Both of these vehicles were shown at GM's EV day in early march to the attendees. Rumour has it the refreshed Bolt EV will see a substantial price cut as well but continue with the same 66KWh battery.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Erik for watching and appreciate your feedback and comments! Yes agreed, the Bolt is a great BEV that could be better, and that can be said for most cars - that they can always be better. I'm hopeful with GM's future plans and releases and I really hope they stick to their commitments.

[@normt5463]

"When I finally parked it(Bolt) at my home charging station, it had gone 322 miles on a single charge. Not bad for a car rated at 238 miles per charge. Even more impressive was the fact that I didn't really try very hard to get that many miles out of it. I spent plenty of time in traffic, which helped, but there were a few sections that I was moving along at 65-70 mph as well. No matter how you look at it, 322 miles out of a Bolt is pretty impressive." - Ed Hellwig Edmund's

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Norm for watching and the info. Yes like I said, other then some minor quibbles, the Bolt is an excellent BEV and I highly recommend it!

[@jeffh5903]

Thanks for the review. I agree the headlights should be LED as should both the front and rear turn lights. The front indicators should move to a combination LED DRL strip that changes to amber and the rear lights have GOT to move out of the bumper....I can’t stand that look (the Kona does it too). Leave the required reflectors in the bumper, change the reverse lights to white LED’s and move the turn lights up and incorporate them into the running/brake light LED’s. Did you happen to look behind the windshield rear view mirror? Are they including a USB slot behind the mirror? I’ve long wanted car makers to include that so drivers can mount a traffic camera and have a convenient spot to plug in for power. Better yet, makers should include (or make it an option) integrated forward, rear, right and left side cameras connected to a small (but easily accessible through an app?) 4 channel DVR...off topic I know. Thanks again from the states.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Jeff for your comments and for watching! No I did not look behind the RV mirror sorry!

[@jamescorrigan7999]

Enjoyed the review. This is the car that I purchased at the end of March. I love the car, love the Oasis Blue color. I do think that the aluminum roof racks are unattractive and overkill. I am a big guy, 6'3"( almost 2 meters in the rest of the world ) and well over 250 pounds. I find the front seats to be very comfortable, and I love the ride and handling. I was going to try to drive to Montreal in September ( from Philadelphia ) in September, but don't know if the border will be re-opened.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi James, thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts about your Bolt! Great that you have joined the "Revolution" with the Bolt EV - a solid choice. I too really like it and my critique was focused on a few small things which every car can have. Overall its a fantastic BEV with excellent range. I hope they do open the border by the fall so you can do your trip. Would love to hear your experience from that trip and you can email me at [e-mail] if interested. Best of luck and stay safe!

[@tysonb1486]

Really great review. I had a bolt this past summer on a 24hr test drive and I experienced lots of the same observations you did. After I got over the amazing tech from my 2012 volt I found the ride was rough. The lane correction felt like I was a drunk driver with how hard it over corrected on the highway. I had a real bad pain in my right side after driving it because the seats were so hard. The range was incredible though it was like that battery range was never dropping. I can't believe gm wants 53k plus tax for this car it's just not worth it. Here in Manitoba we only get the 5k off so it doesn't really help much. I heard the 2020-21 model was supposed to get upgraded seat padding. Anyways great review

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Tyson and love Manitoba! Have not been to Winnipeg for a couple of years now but always enjoy visiting! Thanks for sharing your experiences too! We will have to wait and see what is next for the Bolt in the future!

[@ivankuljismusic8895]

A couple of days ago, we had 'rain with a chance of snowballs' in the suburbs east of Melbourne! NO GLOBAL WARMING HERE____MOVE RIGHT ALONG, PLEASE!

[@EVRevolution]

Wow yes for sure, things are changing!

[@gamergeek8933]

I love it when people mix up climate with weather. Great job.

[@EVRevolution]

Ok...thanks for watching! I guess! :)

[@gamergeek8933]

@@EVRevolution I actually like your reviews, but I wish you would keep it to the car. Don't appreciate all of the other stuff. I want to hear about the cars and not your opinion on things like global warming and covid. It is your show so you do you but just some advice.

[@catchgrappler]

If you would have let the charge session go all the way to 90 or 95%. You could have gotten an idea of the charging curve. It’s my understanding that it maintains a consistent charging speed for longer and thus you get a overall shorter charging speed. Some vehicles with higher charging rates throttle the charging speed early.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Shane, thanks for watching and for the info. There are many other videos out there which provide more in-depth charging. I simply did not have the time. My point is that even with the charging improvements in more power in different ambient temps and consistent charging speeds for longer pulls, to get to 80% in an hour is still a long time. Not a factor if you don't rapid very much or need to.

[@dcvariousvids8082]

Yep. That’s a great colour!

[@EVRevolution]

I think so too!

[@tjs114]

I think the reason companies are using standard bulbs for turn signals is because of the additional switch/resister pack needed for making LEDs flash slow and long. It's an additional cost and there is still a lot of reliability issues with LEDs when they are turned on and off a lot.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for the info and for watching!

[@morbotheturtle3796]

Cant wait to get one in a year or 2! I'd say this is the best non-Tesla electric car. Especially on the used market. Maybe the 2nd gen leaf e+ is better, but they are still way too expensive used

[@EVRevolution]

Good choice!

[@teaearlgrey9052]

Very nice car. The price compared to a Tesla makes it a winner for me, especially given the current economic climate. Much better colors to choose from as well at cheaper prices rather than red, black, white.. boring.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! Yes it is and I got a lot of compliments on the color!

[@spencerkidd2877]

You forgot to mention the steering-wheel mounted region paddle and what about some performance testing in the twisties or a 0-100 run?!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Spencer, I mentioned it very briefly but did not want to focus on it. There are many reviews that go deep dive into it and I try to keep my reviews more for the average consumer that really wants to just get in and drive.

[@markfitzpatrick6692]

Ken you should know that evs put the cost in the drivetrain not creature comfort unless you are a luxury maker like Tesla jag etron and porshe

[@EVRevolution]

Yes Mark, I get it but I don't agree with it still. I really don't buy the higher costs for batteries and drivetrain components (which are very few) anymore. In 2010, battery pricing was about $1200-$1500 USD per kW. Now they are about $120-$150 per kW roughly. DC Motors are bullet proof and small and many many companies are making them. With about a quarter or less of the parts compared to an ICEV, an EV really should NOT cost how much they do right now. IMO, the reason is recouping the changeover investments (like retooling, sourcing contracts, labour retraining, etc.) that OEMS are doing to make the switch to electrification, as well as plain old corporate greed. I know I am over-simplifying this, but really a Model 3 should not sell for $35K USD ($52K CAD). It should be selling for $20-$25K USD, as an example. Sorry to rant, but it burns me when I see OEM pricing at high levels (yes maybe lower then when they originally started) when this is the main objection now for most EV adoption.

[@stansunderwirth41]

Ken, you forgot to mention the regen paddle on the steering wheel. It can bring the car to a halt very quickly in either D or L mode. I have the 2018 Premier, which I love. The 2020 has some nice improvements including wider seats (from 2019) and the high-def cameras and views. The charging curve is slightly better than the 2018, although I understand you can get a software update to improve the 2018 curve. I drove a 1400-mile trip with the Bolt alongside a friend's Tesla Model X dual-motor long range and honestly, the difference in range and charging speed didn't make much practical difference between we both charged during meals and at night at the hotels. When the charging network in the western U.S. gets better, it will make even less difference.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Stan, thanks for watching! Yes I very briefly mentioned it and did not really use it too much except for hill holding, etc. It does work well. Thanks for sharing your story regarding the trip with the Model X. That is a great real-life example of how many can actually use a BEV!

[@erikstephens34]

@@EVRevolution Just of note the regen paddle can also allow one pedel driving while in D mode. The regen paddle will also disable the creep in D mode.

[@phileasler5401]

Currently lease a 2019 Leaf e+ in the states. Test drive a Bolt about 2 years ago. Good drivetrain and range....horrible seats. Even with my Leafs lack of internal BMS, it’s still soooo much nicer then the Bolt. Love the Propilot and on interstates and large two lane roads I use a wrist weight on the bottom of the steering wheel for FSD with my supervising of the vehicle. Love the seats, heat pump, and space in leaf as well. I’ll take a look at the Airya and E when they come out too. Good videos keep up the good work!!!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Phil for your comments and for watching! I too love my 40kWh Leaf for similar reasons as you mentioned!

[@gregandkaruna6674]

Yeah that new Nissan Airya SUV should be awesome! Just hope that at least do what Lexus has done with their first full EV and have the AC cool and heat the battery.

[@gregandkaruna6674]

Crazy short warranty! Here in NZ some brands like Honda, Mazda and Ford get 5 year unlimited km warranty. And the Kona EV gets a 10 year battery warranty, the first models even had unlimited mileage warranty on its battery, unfortunately now they only have 160,000 km but still 10 years :-(

[@0ooTheMAXXoo0]

8 years 100,000 miles is the same as most EVs...

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for sharing

[@mikecarter2737]

"Not as good as a Tesla" - no reviewer can escape it. But one has to compare what you actually pay, not MSRP. I lease 2 2019 BEV for less than lease $ of ONE M3+.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Mike for watching!

[@mikecarter2737]

@@EVRevolution Sorry, just trying to help.

[@torytronrud2413]

Like the overhead camera view.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks! I'll get back into some drone shots but have to get my basic license first!

[@davidmccarthy6061]

I'll have to ask if my 2017 can be retrofitted with the new pedestrian sound. Ours is too subtle and sounds like white noise. I disagree about built-in Nav. Most vehicles it is seldom or never updated but my phone maps are constantly up to date. I would only get it on a Tesla and only because it takes terrain into account for travel range.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching. Yes I understand about the nav and smartphones, but there are still many areas where we don't get good cell coverage and sat nav always works. still think for $53K it should be offered, even with maps that don't get updated that fast.

[@davidbutt406]

For the short portion(s) of a trip lacking cellular coverage, nav is usually unimportant, as you are simply travelling along the same route. If I’m going to be travelling in an area without cellular, (a rarity) and needing routing directions, I’d choose an App such as Copilot, or Here Maps, which allows the download of up to date maps prior to your trip, and use that for navigation.

[@CookiePepper]

It could be much better if you can put a white tape on the top of the wheel while showing lane keeping feature.

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and thanks for watching! That's a great idea and will try to remember that in the future!

[@Violins77]

Did you forget to talk about the regen paddle in when you talked about the regen option? Good review nonetheless!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching, I've had a few comments about it and I briefly mentioned it but did not focus on it.

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

Happy to see some Canadian content and you're in Caledon, cool! You've gotten a new subscriber.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for the sub!

[@evtrekker1317]

The Bolts lane assist is not Lane keep. It is made to help you stay in the lane as you drive. Not like Nissan or Tesla. Bolt is supposed to be getting Super Cruise for next model year I've heard. though.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching. Yes understood and Super Cruise is very good so that should really help!

[@erikstephens34]

Bolt EUV is confirmed to get supercuise. Bolt EV is rumoured to possibly get adaptive cruise control.

[@gregandkaruna6674]

Electric seats are awful unless they have at least 2 driver memory as they are so slow to adjust

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching Greg! I like the infinite movements with electric seats for maximum adjustability!

[@Andi_mit_E]

Unfortunately it will be not available in Europe. Even the European brother Opel Ampera-e is hard to get here.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Andi, yes I understand that. It is too bad. However in Europe, you have way more brands to pick from, especially for EVs like Peugeot, SEAT, Skoda and others. We have a very limited all-electric choice here in NA.

[@erikstephens34]

The Ampera-e was only available up until the end of 2019 because of Opel's sale to PSA and the introduction of the new Opel Corsa-e which sort of replaced the Ampera.

[@lindseyhatfield9017]

Nice review, are you able to find out if it will be released to the Australian market ?

[@EVRevolution]

Not that I know of, but if I find out any new info, I'll mention it. Thanks for watching.

[@robbfitz8602]

Why is the Leaf more expensive even though the bolt has so many more advantages to it? is it exporting costs?

[@allansmith7305]

It may simply be that NIssan is taking advantage of demand exceeding supply and boosting the price to increase profits.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Robb, thanks for watching. Pricing is dependent on regions. The Leaf 40kWh is less than the Bolt for obvious reasons, so Nissan does have a variant of a BEV which is less costly. To compare apples to apples would be to look at the e-plus Leaf and the Bolt EV. Pricing here in Canada for the top-trim e-plus is $52,998 before any other fees and taxes, and the Bolt Premier is $51,113. So a bit less for the Bolt. However, you get a better Lane Keeping function with Pro-Pilot and Adaptive Cruise on the Leaf. Faster DC charging as well. I was able to pull 55kW in my tester e plus last summer and I've read reports from other owners that they have pulled well into the 60 kW ranges. In summary, they are fairly well matched so it would be a personal preference. I did like the Bolt, but I personally would prefer the Leaf e+ if I had to pick between the two.

[@johnnykemenes6992]

Super show number 91 Ken and one day to try out the new model Y.🙂😎👍

[@EVRevolution]

You should! Thanks for watching!

[@petersilva037]

To get more kw from a fast charger... the battery was too full... try going to 5% and then you will see a peak rate.. something lik 55Kw ...it will start tapering already at 25 to 30% to that 40 ish rate. I'd be surprised if you can get faster charging with a leaf... yes the new leaf can do > 50Kw, but almost none of the chargers can. most Chademo chargers are last gen, and top out at 50kw... in terms of pricing... MSRP on a Tesla Model 3 is like 1.5K$ more... and you get a much prettier car, electric seats, built-in maps on a much nicer screen, better drive, more room, charges more than twice as fast ( >100 kw), with a better (more stalls, more places, easier usage) DC charging network... if there is not a chunky discount on the Bolt... there is no contest. On the other hand, I guess you were testing the Premier Trim? There is a base model with MSRP @ 44K$ which is a much more basic proposition, and perhaps easier to justify (spending a lot less to get a lot less, but still a good car, just less goodies.)

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Peter for watching and for your info. Certainly I know that lowering the starting SoC will provide initially better starting pull rates. I just did not have the time to drain the car down enough. I am still working full time everyday from home and I go to our local office a couple days a week too. Yes understand the M3 has more features and agree. Again, it's a choice. Not everyone loves Tesla nor wants one and the Bolt is a very practical and good offering as well. So to say "no contest" is subjective for many and I like to tell people the choices and advantages/disadvantages of these offerings, and let them make up their own minds. I'm just as happy if I can replace a tailpipe with a Bolt or Model 3 or any other BEV. That is my point. My tester was the Premier, as I indicated. Yes there is a lower cost model, but with base MSRP and the basic fees, it's still comes pretty close to $50K before the Federal Incentive. Even with that, $45K is a lot of money in my opinion. Oh and yes, the Leaf e Plus does pull more than the Bolt. I have seen other vids of people pulling into the 70kW range.

[@iused2BAfireman]

I've run my battery down to "riding on fumes" territory and the fast charging does NOT get any better than noted. Really wish it did, but it don't.

[@robertbrigham1620]

I have found the peak charging rate on my 2017 Bolt is very temperature dependent. Your experience of 42kW peak at 16C is even better than my Bolt. I have found that I can only get the peak 55kW charge rate when the temperature is at or above around 25C, and I am just below half charged (it steps down to below 40kW between 50-55% charge).

[@mikecarter2737]

@@robertbrigham1620 Does the Bolt have a battery heater for Canada, and can it be used to warm battery before charging?

[@erikstephens34]

@@mikecarter2737 Bolt EV does have a battery heater. But it does not pre-heat the battery before charging. The Bolt EV has a full liquid heated and cooled battery.

[@courtneyvegan9448]

Cant wait until you review volvo (recharge),polestar(2).

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching courtney! Me too!

[@jamesdubben3687]

Is there anything spec difference on US vs CA Bolts? Just a curiosity.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi James, I'm not aware of anything other than maybe no DRL's in the U.S., possible.

[@jamescorrigan7999]

I think that the DC Fast charging port is standard on all Bolts sold in Canada. In the USA it is a $750 upcharge - but almost every Bolt has one. I do not see how you could take long trips without it.

[@erikstephens34]

Yes DC fast charging is standard in Canada. Also heated steering wheel and front heated seats are standard in Canada as well.

[@ivankuljismusic8895]

Just my first 'glance'_____BORRRRRRRRING DESIGN [imho] zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[@EVRevolution]

It can be to you, but to some it is very likeable!

[@ivankuljismusic8895]

@John Edwards Yes. Like the i3__ innovative too, for it's time !

[@ivankuljismusic8895]

@EV Revolution Show Yes indeed. The Beetle was 'very likeable' __ It is now a CLASSIC! Perhaps l look 'Back To The Future'

[@KTPurdy]

It used to be a 60 kWh battery. It's up by 6

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching!

[@pilot1226]

Will these cars need tires every 50,000 kilometers like Teslas do?

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and thanks for watching! Great question and that really depends on how much of a lead foot you have! It's not hard to spin the drive wheels (AWD is harder) on BEVs with so much instant torque on hand. Plus with the additional weight of the battery packs and lower centre of gravity, the tires are asked to do more in handling and grip. I'm approaching 43,000kms (in just over 2 years of ownership) on the original manufactures set of all-seasons with no issues in tread life. However, I do f-b/b-f rotations every 10K as well as swap out to snow tires for the winter season (Dec - April). I also rotate the winters in the same manner. The key to long lasting tires is rotation, proper inflation and easy on the accelerator! I should get over 50,000kms on mine and will probably plan on investing in a new set of all-seasons for my 2018 Leaf in 2022. I should be able to go this year and next year on them. Hope this helps.

[@pilot1226]

EV Revolution Show Thanks for the detailed reply! I appreciate your video. I’m a little conflicted because the lack of adaptive cruise or SuperCruise.

[@erikstephens34]

We have 47,000 kms on our 2018 Bolt EV right now. Lots of tread left on the tires.

[@MrDisasterboy]

Where do GM get their battery packs and motors from?

[@stevedutcher3875]

LG

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Steve, yes they have an agreement and co-manu with LG.

[@michaelnussbaumer1534]

Love my 2020 Bolt.Best car I've ever owned.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching and for feedback Michael! And glad you have joined the "Revolution"!

[@stevenbarrett7648]

Very nice, we don’t get these here in Great Britain 🇬🇧

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Steven for watching !

[@Prodigious1One]

No Opel Ampera?

[@markfitzpatrick6692]

Ken the bolt will get super cruise in 2021 or 2

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Mark, yes I hope so and had heard. My review however was on what is available now. SuperCruise is very very good too so I hope it does get it!

[@erikstephens34]

Bolt EUV is getting supercruise. The Bolt EV might or might not get adaptive cruise.

[@mycull]

global warming FTW

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching.

[@mbeliv3763]

it looks like a toy

[@EVRevolution]

Maybe to you, but to many who love it, it's a good all-around BEV!

[@johndonaldson5126]

I am interested in a BEV (currently have a PHEV) and the Bolt looks interesting. But I've gotten used to some features that the Bolt doesn't have which would have me looking elsewhere. No ACC is disappointing. No power driver's seat would be a big step back for us.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi John, thanks for watching and for currently owning a PHEV! It's a step in the right direction. Understand, the Bolt may not be for you, however there are other choices (ie. the Koreans) and more will be coming!

[@mbeliv3763]

gm haven t change the model since the beginning of life

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching.

[@markfitzpatrick6692]

M Beliv it is only 3 years old the next car gets super cruise

[@martialman.4563]

How do you turn the noise maker off?

[@EVRevolution]

Hi there, thanks for watching. Not sure what you are referring too, if you can be more specific I can answer.

[@jamespaul2587]

@@EVRevolution I think he means that pedestrian warning sound Ken not sure if that can be turned off or not

[@jamespaul2587]

Great review Ken I see it doesn't have the automatic rear door opening that the US models have :-) I heard the interior refresh was delayed hopefully there will be some improvements for the interior and the infotainment system sounds like you like your leaf better other than the reduced range. For the price it seems like the model 3 might be better value for those that don't need a hatchback however it's nice to have variety.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks JP, did not see any options for that and I believe that the current or pending laws will not allow the pedestrian sounds to be disabled. A backup beeper like what the Leaf has, yes you can turn that off (but you need LeafSpy to do it)!

[@SimonMichaelBenz]

It has it's own fuse. You pull the fuse and the sounds is gone. Check forums for which fuse, or your owners manual