Does a Chevy Bolt come with a charger?
Yes. A basic Level 1 charging cable is included with a new Chevy Bolt, allowing charging from a standard household outlet. A dedicated Level 2 home charger isn’t included by default, so many owners add one if they want faster charging at home. This article explains what ships with the Bolt, how charging works, and what to consider if you’re upgrading your setup.
The Bolt lineup, including the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV, uses a J1772 inlet for Level 1 and Level 2 charging and a CCS port for DC fast charging at public networks. What’s in the box matters for daily use and for planning faster at‑home charging, so here’s a closer look at what to expect.
What charging gear is included with the Bolt?
The following items are typically included with a new Bolt’s charging equipment:
- 120‑volt portable charging cord (Level 1) that plugs into a standard 120‑volt outlet and connects to the vehicle’s charging inlet.
Bottom line: the included Level 1 charger covers basic overnight or casual charging, but it’s not a fast at‑home solution. If you plan frequent charging or shorter trips, you’ll likely want to add a Level 2 charger.
Level 2 charging at home: options and what to expect
If you want faster charging at home, you’ll need to add a Level 2 setup. Here are the key considerations:
- Install a dedicated 240‑volt circuit in your garage or parking area to power a Level 2 EVSE (home charger). Typical installations support a range of amperages, commonly around 16–40 amps depending on the charger and service available.
- Choose between a wall‑mounted Level 2 charger or a portable Level 2 EVSE, based on your space, installation preferences, and whether you want a permanent mount or flexibility.
- Ensure the EVSE you select is compatible with the Bolt’s J1772 inlet and that your electrical service can accommodate the charger’s needs. Check for any local rebates or utility incentives that could offset costs.
Public charging and DC fast charging are separate from home charging. The Bolt supports DC fast charging at public CCS stations in addition to the home Level 1/Level 2 options described above.
Public charging and DC fast charging
The Bolt provides a CCS (DC fast charging) port in addition to its AC charging inlet. Public CCS networks let you top up quickly on longer trips, with charging speeds that vary by station, battery temperature, and remaining capacity. These fast charges are convenient for long drives but are outside the basic home charging setup.
How fast is DC fast charging?
DC fast charging with CCS on the Bolt can deliver tens of kilowatts at capable public stations. The actual rate depends on the station, battery state, and temperature, but drivers typically experience noticeable range restoration in 20–60 minutes at a busy CCS charger.
Summary
In standard configurations, a Chevy Bolt includes a Level 1 120‑volt charging cord for basic overnight charging. A Level 2 home charger is not included and must be added if you want faster at‑home charging. For long trips or quick top‑ups away from home, the Bolt supports CCS DC fast charging at public stations, providing another fast charging option beyond the Level 1/Level 2 home setup. When considering ownership, assess your daily driving needs, your home electrical capacity, and any available incentives to determine the right mix of charging gear for you.
Does the Chevy Bolt come with a charger?
Every Chevy Bolt comes with a Level 1 120-volt portable charging cord. Level 1 charging uses the same three-prong outlets that power everything from lamps to computers to microwaves. All you have to do is plug your Level 1 charger into an outlet, and you'll be good to go!
What kind of charger do I need for a Chevy Bolt?
As with other EVs, you can charge the Chevrolet Bolt at home or public charging stations equipped with either a J1227 connector for Level 1 and Level 2 charging or a CCS Combo connector for DC fast charging. Typically, most EV owners charge their electric cars at home.
Where is the charger on a Chevy Bolt?
I have been very impressed with the car. And today I'd like to go through some of the tips I've learned as far as charging the vehicle. And how to maximize it for your day-to-day.
When you buy an electric car, does it come with a charger?
Yes, most new electric cars come with a Level 1 charging cable that can be plugged into a standard household outlet, but many manufacturers have stopped including more advanced charging equipment or may offer it separately. This standard cable is for slow charging, while a dedicated home charger (Level 2) is recommended for faster and more convenient charging. Some manufacturers have even stopped including the Level 1 cable and sell it as an optional purchase.
What to expect
- Level 1 charger: Most EVs include a portable, 120-volt charging cord for use with a standard wall outlet. This is the slowest charging method, adding only a few miles of range per hour.
- Home charging: While the Level 1 cable is included, a dedicated Level 2 charger installed at your home provides much faster charging speeds (adding about 25 miles of range per hour) and is highly recommended for most owners.
- Optional or missing equipment: Some manufacturers, like Tesla and Kia, have stopped including a home charging cable in the standard purchase price, making it an optional add-on. Other models may come with a more advanced cable for public and faster home charging, but not always.
What to do
- Check the vehicle's specific inclusions: Confirm with your dealership what type of charging cable is included with the specific model you are buying.
- Budget for a home charger: Be prepared to budget for the purchase and professional installation of a Level 2 home charger if you don't want to rely on slow overnight charging.
