How long does it take to fully charge a Chevy Bolt at home?
At home, a Chevy Bolt typically charges fully in about 7–10 hours with a common 240V Level 2 charger. Using a standard 120V outlet (Level 1) can take roughly a day or more. Public DC fast charging is much faster but is not a home option.
Charging at home: what to expect
Below are the typical time frames for charging a Bolt from zero to full, assuming a healthy battery and steady charging conditions. Real-world results vary with starting state of charge, temperature, and the charging equipment you use.
Before each list, here is a quick overview of what these numbers assume: the Bolt has about 60 kWh of usable battery capacity, and the home charging setup delivers the standard maximums commonly available in households.
- Level 1 charging (120V, standard household outlet): The Bolt can draw about 1.4 kW (roughly 12 A). To fill roughly 60 kWh, you’re looking at about 40–50 hours from empty to full, with real-world results often stretching toward the two-day range depending on the exact outlet and losses.
- Level 2 charging (240V, home EVSE): Most home installations provide around 7.2 kW (32 A) of charging power. From empty to full, expect roughly 8–10 hours under typical conditions, though many people charge overnight and start each day with a refreshed battery.
- Note on battery taper: Charging speed slows as the battery approaches 100% to preserve longevity. Reaching the final 10–20% can take longer than the rest of the charge, so the full 0–100% time is often a bit longer than a straight calculation would suggest.
In conclusion, if you’re charging at home, Level 2 is the practical option for most Bolt owners, delivering a full charge overnight in a single session. Level 1 is primarily for those without a dedicated EV charger and can take substantially longer.
Factors that influence home charging time
Several variables can affect how long a full charge takes when you’re plugged in at home. Understanding them helps you estimate more accurately and optimize your charging routine.
State of charge and charging taper
A battery does not charge linearly. The Bolt’s charging rate tapers as it nears full capacity, so the final portion of a 0–100% charge will take longer than the middle portion, extending the total time beyond the simple calculation.
Temperature and climate
Cold temperatures can slow charging and reduce effective capacity. Preconditioning the battery (warming it while plugged in) can help maintain faster charging, especially in winter.
Charger capability and wiring
Home wiring and the EVSE (charging station) matter. A properly installed 240V circuit with a 32A (7.2 kW) or higher rating will yield faster charging than a lower-capacity setup. Poor connections or undersized wiring can reduce charging speed or cause trips.
Battery health and recall-related changes
Battery health affects charging efficiency. If the Bolt has undergone battery module replacement or software updates related to recalls, charging behavior may differ slightly from earlier configurations. Always follow GM’s guidance for safe charging after any recall-related service.
What to expect in practical terms
Most Bolt owners plug in at night on a Level 2 charger. If the battery is below about 20–30%, a full overnight charge typically brings you to roughly 90–100%, depending on weather and equipment. If you routinely start from a higher state of charge, you may not need a full 0–100% cycle every day.
Charging recommendations for Bolt owners
To maximize convenience and longevity, consider these best practices:
- Install a dedicated 240V circuit (Level 2) for reliable overnight charging.
- Keep daily charging to around 80% for regular use, and only charge to 100% for longer trips when needed.
- Precondition the battery in cold weather to help maintain charging efficiency.
In summary, home charging times for the Chevy Bolt are most predictable with Level 2 charging: about 8–10 hours from near-empty to full under typical conditions, with Level 1 charging taking significantly longer. Always account for temperature, battery health, and taper near full when planning daily charging needs.
Summary
For everyday use, most Chevy Bolt owners can expect a full home recharge of a depleted battery in roughly 8–10 hours with a 240V Level 2 setup, and 40–50 hours with a standard 120V outlet. Real-world times vary with temperature, battery health, and the final portion of charging due to tapering. Upgrading to a proper Level 2 charger and wiring can make overnight, convenient charging the norm.
