Rahul Somvanshi
General Motors is all set to halt production of the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV by the end of this year. However, the Bolt EUV electric crossover is making its debut in Brazil. In a celebratory launch event, General Motors achieved a range record of 560 miles (901.8 kilometers) on a full battery charge for the Bolt EUV.
This range is almost double the WLTP range for the Brazilian market and more than double the EPA-estimated range of 247 miles. Over 70 individuals, including journalists, influencers, customers, dealers, partners, and GM employees, participated in an efficiency challenge, taking turns driving the Bolt EUV for 28 hours and 30 minutes.
The challenge took place at GM Brazil’s Proving Grounds in Indaiatuba, Sao Paulo state, on a round track that simulated an infinite plane line. The test was to check how far the Chevy Bolt EUV could be driven using the entire 66 kilowatt-hours of energy stored in the battery while stressing energy efficiency.
The participants drove the Bolt EUV at low speeds and employed techniques that minimized energy consumption. General Motors recently announced the world record set by the Bolt EUV for the longest range achieved by the model and any EV in its category.
The average speed during the challenge was approximately 22 mph (35 kph), explaining why it took over a day to fully deplete the battery, with stops only for driver changes. The most energy-efficient vehicle recorded during the challenge had an average efficiency of 7.2 kWh/100 kilometers.
Participants were advised to avoid sudden acceleration and braking and refrain from using air conditioning or heating features. General Motors ensured that the Bolt EUV had proper tire pressures and that the test took place in favorable climate and geographic conditions to minimize energy consumption.
The Bolt EUV will be sold as a limited batch in Brazil, but the exact number of vehicles available was not disclosed. Following the discontinuation of the Bolt EV and EUV, General Motors plans to introduce its next-generation EVs to Brazil, starting in mid-2024.
The upcoming EV models confirmed for the Brazilian market include the Blazer EV and Equinox EV. The Bolt line is considered a technological achievement and a global reference for offering high autonomy at an affordable price. The Bolt EUV Autonomy Challenge involved more than 70 participants and took place at the GM Cruz Alta Proving Ground, authorized by the Mauá Institute of Technology in Brazil.
