Summary
- People have negative things to say about the Chevy Bolt due to slower charging speed and longer charging times
- The EV Geek on YouTube conducted a road trip test comparing a Chevy Bolt to a Tesla Model Y
- Despite the Tesla’s advantages in range and charging speed, both vehicles had a similar trip time
- The Tesla only had a one-hour advantage over the Bolt, showcasing that the difference is not as significant as perceived online
- The Bolt, available at a lower price point, can still be a viable option for those looking for an affordable EV option
Article
The debate surrounding the performance of the Chevy Bolt in comparison to other EVs, particularly Tesla, is a topic of discussion among EV enthusiasts. While some criticize the Bolt for its slower charging time and limited range, others argue that it is still a viable option for road trips. A recent test conducted by The EV Geek on YouTube aimed to compare the efficiency of a Tesla Model Y against a Chevy Bolt in a road trip scenario.
Starting from Little Rock, Arkansas, the two vehicles embarked on a trip to Austin, Texas, with the Tesla Model Y having the advantage of faster charging and greater range. Despite the Model Y’s higher EPA-rated range of 288 miles compared to the Bolt’s 260 miles, the real test came down to charging speed. Both cars set off at 9 AM with 100% charge, following similar trip plans with multiple charging stops along the way.
The drive between the two vehicles remained relatively close as they maintained a consistent speed of about 80 MPH. However, external factors such as rain in Texas affected the efficiency and range of both cars. The Tesla driver faced a challenge when his car’s range exceeded his bladder capacity, necessitating an unplanned stop at a rest area. Additionally, rain led to reduced range and lower speeds for safety reasons.
Throughout the journey, both vehicles encountered different charging challenges at various stations. The Tesla driver experienced delays at a charging station in Nash, Texas, while the Bolt driver faced issues with charger availability and functionality at Walmart. Despite these setbacks, the Tesla ultimately completed the trip in 10.5 hours, with the Bolt arriving an hour later after a 35-minute charging wait in Waco.
Overall, the test showed that the difference in trip time between the two vehicles was minimal, despite the Tesla’s perceived advantages in range and charging speed. The Bolt proved to be a practical option for road trips, especially considering its affordability compared to the Tesla. While both vehicles had their share of challenges during charging stops, the Bolt required more manual intervention and awareness of charging infrastructure, whereas the Tesla handled most of the charging logistics automatically.
In conclusion, the test highlighted that the Chevy Bolt, while not as high-performing as a Tesla, is still a viable option for road trips when used strategically. The affordability of the Bolt makes it accessible to a wider range of EV enthusiasts who may not be able to afford a more expensive Tesla. Ultimately, the test demonstrated that with some planning and understanding of EV charging infrastructure, the Chevy Bolt can be a reliable choice for long-distance travel.
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