With a combined fuel economy rating of 118 MPG, the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV is efficient and a major change in personal transportation. This isn’t about using fuel conservatively, it’s about nearly eliminating gasoline for drivers who prioritize lower fuel costs and low running costs. The Bolt EV isn’t for everyone, but its efficiency is the defining feature for some drivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Bolt EV’s economy at 127 MPG in the city and 108 MPG on the highway. The higher city rating reflects the Bolt EV’s regenerative braking system, which recovers energy during deceleration and sends it back into the battery. Stop-and-go traffic is ideal for maximizing this technology: the more you brake, the more energy you recover. Highway driving, with its consistent speeds and fewer chances for regeneration, results in lower, but still good, efficiency. This difference highlights the Bolt EV’s suitability for urban and suburban commutes, where its strengths shine.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV at $650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average electricity prices. Remember that this is an estimate, and your actual costs will vary depending on electricity rates, driving habits, and the percentage of charging done at home versus public charging stations. Factoring in potential changes, the Bolt EV offers substantial savings compared to gasoline-powered vehicles, a significant incentive for eco-conscious and budget-minded buyers.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a standard, but real-world BOLT MPG across all years depends on several factors. Hard acceleration, frequent use of climate control, and sustained high speeds will lower efficiency. Gentle driving, pre-conditioning the cabin while plugged in, and using the “Low” driving mode can help you get close to or exceed the EPA estimates. Elevation changes and outside temperature also affect electric range, and cold weather can significantly reduce battery power. Learning to adjust your driving style and optimize vehicle settings is important for maximizing the Bolt EV’s efficiency.

How it compares

The Bolt EV is in a market with an increasing number of electric vehicles, but its efficiency is still a selling point. The Nissan LEAF S achieves 123 city / 99 highway / 111 combined MPG. The base LEAF is more affordable, but lacks the Bolt’s range, making the Chevy a better choice for drivers who drive longer distances. The Hyundai Kona Electric gets 132 city / 108 highway / 120 combined MPG, a close competitor that is similar to the Bolt. The Mini Cooper SE checks in at 118 city / 100 highway / 109 combined MPG. Its sporty driving is for a different driver than the Bolt’s owners, who prioritize economy. Looking at all Chevrolet fuel economy data shows how the Bolt doesn’t fit the Chevy family’s focus on gasoline engines.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Precondition the cabin while the Bolt EV is plugged in. Heating or cooling the interior using grid power, rather than battery power, can extend your driving range, especially during extreme temperatures, allowing you to start driving with maximum battery capacity and avoid draining it to change cabin temps.

Use the “Low” driving mode for increased regenerative braking. This mode provides stronger deceleration when you lift off the accelerator, allowing you to recover more energy and reduce reliance on the friction brakes. Mastering one-pedal driving boosts efficiency and provides a unique driving experience which requires minimal effort.

Maintain optimal tire pressure because underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the motor to work harder and reduces range. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. A little extra tire pressure also helps.

Limit hard acceleration and high speeds. Electricity is consumed quickly when you are driving aggressively. Instead, drive smoothly, maintaining a steady pace and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking; driving 55 versus 75 will have a large effect on your range.

Plan routes strategically: use apps and navigation systems to identify charging stations along your route and avoid unexpected detours or heavy traffic. Route planning services also show the precise effect of a certain path on your state of change, and adjust driving according to the terrain it highlights.