
The Good
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV offers zippy performance and impressive efficiency, making it a fun and practical choice. Its comfortable ride and modern design appeal to emotional buyers, while its long range, value for money, and potential for low running costs attract the practical ones. The instant torque is addictive, and owning an EV is a statement.
The Bad
A significant weakness of the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV is the battery recall due to fire risk, which affected many model years. Other drawbacks include the somewhat basic interior materials and limited fast-charging speeds compared to some rivals. Also, the rear seat space is adequate but not exceptionally generous. Potential buyers should verify recall status and inspect the interior carefully.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Single electric motor
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Fuel Economy: 131 MPGe (city) / 109 MPGe (highway) / 120 MPGe (combined)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- LT:
- 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
- Automatic climate control
- Keyless open and start
- Premier (adds to LT features):
- Leather upholstery
- Heated front and rear seats
- Heated steering wheel
- 360-degree camera
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control (optional)
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2021 |
Make | Chevrolet |
Model | Bolt EV |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Truck |
Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | WENTZVILLE |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5000 pounds |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | - |
Engine Size | - |
Engine Cylinders | - |
Transmission | 1 Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | Standard |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
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Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Have?
Beyond the battery issue, some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system, such as occasional glitches or slow response times. Others have mentioned issues with the climate control system. However, the battery recall dominated the conversation and significantly impacted owner confidence.
Long-term reliability concerns, aside from the battery, are generally in line with other electric vehicles. EV powertrains are simpler than internal combustion engines, so theoretically, they should be more reliable. However, the longevity of the battery pack remains a key concern for many owners, even with the replacement under the recall.
How long will the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Entertainment: The Bolt EV includes a standard six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offer options like wireless device charging.
Driver-Assistance: Standard driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and a following distance indicator. Optional features, particularly on the Premier trim, include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Safety: The 2021 Bolt EV includes ten standard airbags, a high-strength steel safety cage, and electronic stability control.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating.
Overall, the 2021 Bolt EV offers a compelling blend of standard and available tech and safety features, making it a solid choice in its class.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Prices and Market Value
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Cost of Ownership
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Fuel Efficiency
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Seat Belts:pretensioner
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Seat Belts:pretensioner
Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery
Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery Thermal:management:software
Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV Compare to Other Truck?
Performance: The Bolt EV's acceleration is comparable to its rivals, providing a fun driving experience.
Features: Feature-wise, it held its own, but some competitors offer more advanced technology or luxurious interiors.
Reliability: The battery recall significantly impacted the Bolt EV's reliability perception. The Hyundai and Kia models have generally enjoyed better reliability ratings.
Price: The Bolt EV was often positioned as a value leader, especially before the price cuts on new models.
Alternatives: Depending on priorities, the Hyundai Kona Electric or Kia Niro EV are similar alternatives offering a more refined experience, albeit potentially at a higher price point. The Tesla Model 3 (though pricier) provides superior performance and charging infrastructure access. The VW ID.4 is another option offering more space.
Ranks #145 Truck
1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
145 | 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV a Good Truck?
George Knighton on December 23, 2022
Trouble Free25K trouble free miles so far. Everybody picks on the 55 kW maximum charge speed, but the car is so efficient that it still adds 100 mi in ½ an hour at a DC station. Imagine a 200 HP Fit, and you've got the idea. Zero dollars on maintenance/repair.
Big John on June 14, 2022
Big EV in a small packageThis is my first venture into EV ownership and the Bolt has exceeded expectations. Please know that I am 6'-10" tall and weigh 335 lbs. Studying specifications, I noted the quite large legroom and headroom dimensions for this car and ventured to the dealership to see if this was the case. My salesman looked skeptical as I approached the vehicle, and was even more surprised than I was at how well I fit! The Premier trim level is pretty amazing from a technology perspective, but some features of the interior finish seem rather odd to me. The driving range that I am experiencing is better than the specifications and I cannot fault the performance. I am looking forward to a long-term relationship with this peppy little car!
Retired age 74 on May 17, 2022
BOLT IS A PIECE OF JUNK. PLEASE READ THIS POSTWe have a 2018 Chevy bolt with 30K miles on it. It will not charge past 79 miles. It has been at the Roseville, John Sullivan Chevy Delwrship for three weeks now. Corporate cannot figure out the problem. They replaced the main battery pack recently. THIS CAR IS A PIECE OF JUNK. RUSS GRASS VALLEY, CA.
RRKR on June 7, 2021
My awesome first electric carThis is my first electric car. It accelerates like a rocket! Rides are bit pitchy, but the car is roomy and its performance makes up for everything. Love this car.
Olddog3006 on June 6, 2021
1st electric car owned, love it! Has good range.Love it! Installed a 240 charger, quick, no "range anxiety"! Solid feel and easy to adjust to "quiet" driving. Would be nice if offered a better sound system!
Levi on June 1, 2021
Best value electric on the marketI bought this Bolt after owning a Chevy Volt and a Fiat 500e. Its range is more practical than the Fiat, and it is more comfortable than the Volt.
STL_Andrew on May 24, 2021
Smooth Transition to Electric VehicleThis car is a great introduction to owning an electric vehicle. It has reasonable range (260 miles), can be driven like a normal gas vehicle or single pedal driving, and comfortable for 4 adults. The promotional price made it very attractive to lurchase. Reviews about cheaper looking interior are true, but the seats are comfortable for trips around town. I have not taken a road trip (>50 miles) with the vehicle yet.
Bolt owner on May 11, 2021
Great little car, exactly whats needed to commuteGreat car for commuting to work, shopping and for pleasure. This car will work for my needs for the next ten years. Recommend this for anyone working and commuting.
Anthony T on May 11, 2021
Handles great die tp the low center of gravity.It is our first EV and we are pleased with every aspect of the vehicle. It handles extremely well. We like the large windshield, we are able to see left and right much better than our previous car.
Car fan on May 5, 2021
It’s a very fun and practical carIt’s a perfect car for daily drivers, plenty room for for passengers and great cargo space. All I have to charge it twice a week on 220v four hours at a time and that more than sufficient for about 600/700 miles a month