What is the mpg equivalent of the Chevy Bolt?
The Chevy Bolt's mpg equivalent is roughly 118 MPGe for the Bolt EV and about 112–117 MPGe for the Bolt EUV, depending on year and trim. Exact figures vary with model year and configuration.
MPGe stands for miles-per-gallon-equivalent. It measures how far an electric vehicle can travel on the energy contained in a gallon of gasoline, using the EPA's standard of 33.7 kilowatt-hours per gallon. For the Bolt, EPA ratings reflect efficiency under city/highway splits and vary with battery size and weight. Real-world results depend on speed, climate, driving style, and terrain.
MPGe in practice for the Chevy Bolt
For most buyers, MPGe is more meaningful when paired with range expectations and charging setup. Here's a snapshot by Bolt variant based on typical EPA results in recent years.
- Bolt EV (latest generations with a 66 kWh battery): EPA ratings commonly around 118 MPGe combined, roughly 126 MPGe city and 108 MPGe highway.
- Bolt EUV (slightly heavier, similar battery): EPA ratings commonly around 112–117 MPGe combined, roughly 125 MPGe city and 102–105 MPGe highway.
In short, the Bolt EV typically posts a higher MPGe than the Bolt EUV, reflecting lighter weight and efficiency advantages, with actual numbers depending on year and configuration.
Understanding the numbers by year
Chevrolet offered Bolt EV and Bolt EUV across several model years with incremental refinements, and EPA MPGe numbers shifted slightly as weights and aerodynamics changed. For the most accurate figure for a specific car, check the EPA label on the vehicle or Chevrolet's official spec sheet for that year.
Where to find EPA MPGe figures
Common sources for MPGe data include the EPA's fueleconomy.gov ratings and Chevrolet's official product pages.
- EPA fueleconomy.gov rating for Bolt EV (66 kWh): around 118 MPGe combined (city ~126, highway ~108).
- EPA fueleconomy.gov rating for Bolt EUV (65 kWh): around 111–117 MPGe combined (city ~125, highway ~102–105).
Note: Exact figures vary by model year and trim. Always verify the numbers for your specific vehicle.
Tips to maximize MPGe in everyday driving
Driving behavior and charging habits can influence real-world efficiency as much as the official MPGe. Here are practical tips:
- Keep speeds moderate and use gentle acceleration to minimize energy use.
- Use regenerative braking to recover energy during deceleration.
- Precondition the cabin while still plugged in to reduce in-vehicle energy draw when you start driving.
- Charge to an appropriate level for your daily needs; avoid leaving the battery near 0% or 100% for extended periods.
Small habits can add a few extra miles per gallon-equivalent on typical commutes and improve overall efficiency.
Summary
The Chevy Bolt delivers MPGe in the mid-to-high 100s, with the Bolt EV typically posting higher figures than the Bolt EUV. Exact numbers depend on model year and trim, so consult the latest EPA ratings or Chevrolet spec sheets for precise figures tailored to your vehicle. Overall, MPGe serves as a useful benchmark to compare energy efficiency across electric cars, alongside real-world range and charging infrastructure.
Can a Chevy Bolt charge at a Tesla station?
Yes, a Chevy Bolt can use a Tesla Supercharger with an adapter, but it depends on the type of charger. For DC fast charging, you need a special adapter (NACS to CCS) and must use the Tesla app to start the session. For AC Level 2 "destination" chargers, you may need a different adapter (NACS to J1772).
You can watch this video to see how to charge a Chevy Bolt at a Tesla Supercharger: 59sDrive The Lightning - The EV Tech ChannelYouTube · May 14, 2025
For Tesla DC Superchargers
- You will need an adapter: A NACS to CCS adapter is required for the Bolt, which has a CCS port.
- Use the Tesla app: You must use the Tesla app to find a compatible station, initiate and monitor the charging session, and pay for the charge.
- Find compatible stations: The Tesla app will show you compatible stations. Check the station's information page to verify your vehicle's compatibility.
- Not all stations are compatible: Only certain stations have been enabled for non-Tesla vehicles. Tesla also has a limited number of stations with a built-in "Magic Dock" that can charge a non-Tesla car directly.
For Tesla AC Level 2 (Destination) Chargers
- You will need an adapter: A NACS to J1772 adapter is needed for these chargers.
- Plug and charge: Once the adapter is connected, you can typically plug and charge without using an app.
- Not all destination chargers work: Some destination chargers may not be compatible with the adapter.
Other things to know
- Check your car's compatibility: Not all Chevy Bolt models are compatible with all Tesla charging networks.
- Charging speed: The Chevy Bolt can charge at a maximum speed of around 50 kW at a Supercharger, which is the car's max rate.
- Use the official adapter: Some third-party adapters may not be compatible with all Tesla stations. If possible, use an adapter from a trusted brand or the official adapter from GM.
What is the real world range of the Bolt EV?
259 miles
The Bolt is powered by a single 200-horsepower motor that powers its front wheels, a propulsion system that nets an EPA-estimated 259 miles on a single charge. The Bolt has DC fast-charge capability that Chevy says can add up to 100 miles of range in just 30 minutes.
How many miles will a Chevy Bolt go on a full charge?
A Chevy Bolt EV gets an estimated 259 miles on a full charge, while the Bolt EUV gets an estimated 247 miles. However, the real-world range can vary significantly due to factors like driving style, speed, and weather conditions.
- Chevy Bolt EV: 259 miles
- Chevy Bolt EUV: 247 miles
- Real-world factors: Driving at highway speeds, using air conditioning, and cold weather can all reduce the actual range you get.
- EPA estimates: The official numbers are based on EPA testing under specific, controlled conditions that may not reflect your daily driving.
Why is Chevy discontinuing the Bolt EV?
Chevy discontinued the Bolt to make way for more profitable, advanced EVs on its new Ultium battery platform. The Orion plant where the Bolt was made is being retooled for electric pickups, and the Bolt's older battery technology was outdated compared to newer models, including the upcoming Equinox EV. While the Bolt was popular, GM needed to focus on its next-generation vehicles for higher profitability.
Reasons for discontinuation
- Transition to Ultium platform: The Bolt used an older battery architecture that was not compatible with GM's new, more advanced Ultium platform. GM is shifting resources to this new platform for its future EVs.
- Production capacity: The Orion Township, Michigan plant that built the Bolt is being retooled to produce electric versions of the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado pickups.
- Profitability: While the Bolt was a top seller, it was reportedly not a very profitable vehicle. GM is prioritizing higher-end EVs, like the upcoming pickups, which are expected to be more profitable.
- Outdated technology: The Bolt's battery technology was becoming obsolete, with slower charging speeds compared to newer competitors.
- Brand shift: The discontinuation also marks a strategic shift for GM to focus on larger, more expensive EVs, though they still plan to offer a budget-friendly option with the future Equinox EV.
