Does a Chevy Bolt EUV have a transmission?
Yes, but not in the way a gasoline car does. The Chevy Bolt EUV uses a single‑speed, fixed‑gear drive unit rather than a multi‑gear automatic or manual transmission.
As an all‑electric vehicle built on GM’s Ultium platform, the Bolt EUV pairs its electric motor with a fixed gear ratio reduction gear. This setup delivers immediate torque and seamless acceleration without any gear changes, while keeping the powertrain simple and low maintenance.
How electric drivetrains differ from traditional transmissions
Electric motors provide strong torque across a wide range of speeds, reducing the need for multiple gears. In the Bolt EUV, the single fixed gear ratio ensures efficient power delivery from a stop through highway speeds, eliminating the need for shifting or a torque converter.
Details of the Bolt EUV's drive unit
Key facts about the Bolt EUV's drive system include:
- Type: single‑speed reduction gear integrated with the electric motor
- Gear ratio: fixed to optimize performance across the motor’s torque band
- No conventional transmission: no multi‑gear automatic or manual
- Torque delivery: high torque from zero RPM, with smooth, uninterrupted acceleration
- Maintenance: generally lower maintenance than traditional transmissions; no routine transmission fluid changes
These characteristics contribute to the Bolt EUV’s smooth acceleration and low maintenance profile.
Implications for drivers
For drivers, this means instant, effortless acceleration without shifting or clutch operation. The absence of a traditional transmission reduces mechanical complexity and potential failure points, while regenerative braking works in concert with the single‑speed drive to optimize efficiency and range.
Summary
The Chevy Bolt EUV does have a transmission in the sense that it uses a drive unit with a fixed gear, i.e., a single‑speed transmission. This is standard for most EVs and provides simple, reliable power delivery with minimal maintenance, delivering smooth performance from urban streets to highway speeds.
What are the common problems with the Bolt EUV?
Various Electrical Issues
The 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV's electrical issues are making some owners' dreams of smooth, eco-friendly driving a nightmare. From flickering lights and unresponsive controls to complete system shutdowns, these gremlins transform the once-exciting Bolt EUV into an unreliable companion.
Is there a class action lawsuit against Chevy Bolt?
A class action lawsuit for the Chevy Bolt EV battery defects resulted in a $150 million settlement that provides compensation to owners of 2017-2022 model years. Eligible owners could receive up to $1,400 if they had the specific software update installed before a deadline (which has passed) or a minimum of $700 if they sold or leased their vehicle before the software remedy was available.
Lawsuit overview
- What it was about: The lawsuit, In re Chevrolet Bolt EV Battery Litigation, alleged that 2017-2022 Chevy Bolt vehicles had defective batteries that could overheat and catch fire, leading to reduced range and a decrease in the vehicle's value.
- Affected vehicles: All 2017-2022 Chevrolet Bolt EVs (and 2022 Chevy Bolt EUVs) that were shipped to a dealer on or before August 19, 2021, are eligible if they have not received a buyback.
- Settlement details: A preliminary settlement was granted in September 2024, with a final approval hearing held in May 2025. The settlement includes cash payments, service awards for class representatives, and administrative costs.
Compensation for eligible owners
- Up to $1,400: For owners who had the required diagnostic software update installed by the deadline (December 31, 2023) but did not receive a battery replacement or a buyback from GM.
- Up to $700: For owners who sold their vehicle or terminated their lease before the software remedy was released and did not receive a battery replacement or buyback.
- Other options: Some owners may have already received a battery replacement from GM and may be eligible for a different payment from the settlement if they met the criteria.
Important notes
- The deadline to file a claim was July 31, 2025.
- This settlement is part of a larger recall effort that cost GM nearly $2 billion.
- The final approval hearing for the lawsuit was in May 2025.
- For any changes to dates, check the official settlement website: www.boltevbatterysettlement.com.
Does the Chevy Bolt EV have a transmission?
2022 Chevy Bolt EV transmission fluid changes are exceptionally essential to keep your vehicle's transmission cool and lubricated. If you don't routinely and consistently change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2022 Chevy Bolt EV transmission will immediately slip.
Why is Bolt EUV discontinued?
Discontinuation. On April 25, 2023, GM CEO Mary Barra confirmed that the Bolt and Bolt EUV would be discontinued at the end of 2023 to make room for GM's "new generation of electric vehicles." On July 25, 2023, GM announced it would continue production of the Chevy Bolt and will utilize Ultium and Ultifi technologies.
