Does Chevy Bolt have automatic braking?
Yes. In current Chevrolet Bolt models—both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV—Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is included as part of GM's Safety Assist suite. For older model years, availability depended on trim and options; some early Bolts did not include AEB.
What Automatic Emergency Braking does
Automatic Emergency Braking is a driver-assist feature designed to reduce crash risk by detecting potential collisions and applying the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond in time. In the Bolt, AEB is typically paired with Front Pedestrian Braking and Forward Collision Alert as part of GM's Safety Assist suite.
Before you read the list, here is a quick overview of how it works and its limitations.
- It uses sensors (radar and camera) to monitor traffic ahead.
- If a potential crash is detected, the system can apply the brakes automatically to slow or stop the vehicle.
- It is a driver-assistance feature, not a substitute for attentive driving; certain conditions (weather, road surface, sensor occlusion) can affect performance.
- Pedestrian braking is included in many Bolt configurations, aiding in collisions with pedestrians.
Concluding: AEB helps mitigate crashes but may not always prevent them; drivers should remain attentive and be prepared to brake manually when needed.
Availability by model year
The availability of Automatic Emergency Braking and related Safety Assist features has evolved across Bolt generations. The most recent model years include AEB as standard, while earlier Bolts offered limited or no AEB depending on trim and options.
- 2017–2019 Chevy Bolt EV: AEB was not offered as a standard or widely available option; safety features like Forward Collision Alert or Lane Change Alert may have been included on certain trims, but AEB was not typical.
- 2020–2021 Chevy Bolt EV: GM expanded safety features; AEB availability varied by trim or optional packages; many units did not include AEB as standard.
- 2022–present Chevy Bolt EV and Bolt EUV: Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, and related Safety Assist features are standard on all trims as part of GM Safety Assist.
Concluding: If you own or lease a 2022 or newer Bolt, you should have AEB as standard. For earlier models, check the specific trim and options with a dealer to confirm AEB availability.
How to verify on your vehicle
Use the Bolt's infotainment system and settings to confirm which driver-assistance features are active. Look under Safety or Driver Assistance menus for Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control (if equipped).
- Check the instrument cluster for icons or indicators when sensors detect a potential collision.
- Review the owner's manual or the trim's standard equipment list for Safety Assist features.
- Consult your window sticker (Monroney) for Safety Assist features.
Concluding: If you rely on AEB, ensure it is enabled in settings where available and understand its limitations in adverse conditions.
Summary
In short, the Chevy Bolt currently offers Automatic Emergency Braking as standard on the latest models (Bolt EV and Bolt EUV from 2022 onward). Earlier Bolts may not have AEB depending on year and trim. For the most accurate assessment, check your specific vehicle’s safety features in the owner's manual or with a dealer.
