115 MPGe combined is a great number for the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV. It attracts practical buyers looking to minimize their running costs and environmental impact without sacrificing the everyday usability of a small SUV. The Bolt EUV isn’t trying to be sporty or luxurious; it’s focused on delivering efficient, affordable transportation, and the MPGe rating is key to its appeal. It promises cheap commuting and fewer trips to public charging stations. Buyers choose the Bolt EUV because that number represents freedom from the gas pump and the potential for significant long-term savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV’s efficiency further, revealing an impressive 125 MPGe in the city and 104 MPGe on the highway. These figures are due to the nature of electric motors; maximum torque is available from zero RPM, making them especially efficient in stop-and-go city driving where regenerative braking can recapture energy. The Bolt EUV excels in urban environments, proving to be a nimble and economical vehicle for navigating crowded streets. The slight drop in highway MPGe is typical for EVs as aerodynamic drag at higher speeds begins to take its toll. 104 MPGe is still a remarkable achievement, demonstrating the Bolt EUV’s viability for longer journeys, especially when using readily available public charging infrastructure. The transmission, with its variable gear ratios, ensures that the motor operates in its most efficient range for all driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV at $650. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average electricity prices. This figure highlights the dramatic savings potential of the Bolt EUV compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. It translates to hundreds, even thousands, of dollars saved per year, especially as gas prices fluctuate and electric vehicle charging infrastructure becomes more prevalent and cost-effective. For budget-conscious consumers, this $650 figure is a strong argument to switch to electric vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standardized benchmark, real-world MPGe can vary based on several factors, including driving style, ambient temperature, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will decrease efficiency, and using the air conditioning or heater extensively. Cold weather, in particular, can significantly reduce battery range and MPGe due to the energy required to heat the cabin. However, skillful drivers who use gentle acceleration, regenerative braking, and pre-condition the cabin while plugged in can often meet or even exceed the EPA estimates. The BOLT MPG across all years highlights this fact.

How it compares

The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is one of many electric vehicles. The Hyundai Kona Electric, for example, boasts a combined 120 MPGe, putting it slightly ahead in terms of efficiency, but it caters to a slightly different audience in terms of size and style. Tesla’s Model 3, in its base trim, gets around 132 MPGe combined, a higher figure, but the Model 3 also carries a significantly higher price tag. A Nissan LEAF achieves around 111 MPGe combined, making it a closer competitor to the Bolt EUV in terms of both efficiency and price. The Bolt EUV offers a good balance of efficiency, price, and practicality for buyers prioritizing value and lower fuel costs. You can compare all Chevrolet fuel economy data on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

take advantage of regenerative braking. The Bolt EUV allows for one-pedal driving by maximizing regenerative braking. Learn to anticipate traffic flow and lift off the accelerator early, allowing the car to slow down naturally while recapturing energy to recharge the battery. This simple technique can significantly extend your driving range, especially in city driving.

Pre-condition the cabin while plugged in. Heating or cooling the car’s interior while it’s still connected to the charger draws power from the grid rather than the battery, preserving valuable range. Most EVs, including the Bolt EUV, offer pre-conditioning features that can be controlled via a smartphone app.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces efficiency. Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. While you can’t change the shape of your vehicle, you can avoid carrying unnecessary cargo on the roof or in the cargo area, which increases drag and reduces efficiency. If you must carry cargo, consider using a streamlined cargo carrier.

use the car’s drive modes wisely. The Bolt EUV typically offers different drive modes that prioritize either efficiency or performance. Select the most efficient mode for everyday driving and reserve the performance mode for situations where extra acceleration is needed. The default “L” (Low) driving mode substantially increases regenerative braking over the standard “D” (Drive) mode.