2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV spied testing

The next member of Chevrolet‘s electric car cadre has been spotted in testing at the GM proving ground. Even in a full body wrap, this first look gives a good idea of what changes we might expect to see compared to the Bolt Concept that was unveiled in January at the Detroit Auto Show. Although the production-intent prototype Bolt retains the same basic 5-door crossover-like hatch form, a number of the exterior styling details appear to have taken on a more traditional character. 

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The Bolt Concept’s short overhangs and rising shoulder line remain intact, but the op-art camo on this test mule seems to be concealing a more conventional Chevrolet dual-port grille up front and the tail and rear pillar treatment have clearly lost a bit of the overt edginess exhibited in the show car. While the volume-build Bolt will be built on a version of GM’s Global Gamma G2xx platform, there’s still no word on whether it will share any powertrain elements with the current Chevrolet Spark EV. The automaker also has no comment as to what type of battery pack will be used to enable the Bolt reach its targeted 200-mile per-charge range. 

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Start of production for the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt is set for October 2016. It will be built at GM’s Orion Assembly facility — which also is home to the Chevy Sonic and Buick Verano – and marketed nationally. While there’s no official word on pricing, Chevrolet execs indicate the new Bolt should start around $30,000 after factoring in the $7,500 federal tax credit.