2027 Chevrolet Bolt Loses 10% Range at 80 MPH
A real-world test shows the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt LT travels 219 miles at 80 mph, a 24-mile drop from its 70 mph result.
The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt LT travels 219 miles at a constant 80 mph, according to a new test.
YouTube channel State Of Charge conducted both range evaluations. The tests highlight how driving speed is a critical factor for electric vehicle range. The 80 mph test consumed roughly the same total energy but covered significantly less distance.
Test Methodology and Vehicle Specs
State Of Charge performed the tests on the base LT trim of the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt. The vehicle uses a single-motor, front-wheel-drive powertrain and a 65-kWh LFP battery. For consistency, the tester used the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure, the most efficient driving mode, and minimal climate control. Speed was maintained using GPS on a looped route to mitigate elevation and wind effects.
The car has an official EPA Combined range of 262 miles. Its EPA Highway rating is 232 miles.
| Trim | EPA Combined Range | EPA Highway Range |
|---|---|---|
| LT | 262 miles | 232 miles |
| RS | 262 miles | 232 miles |
70 MPH vs. 80 MPH Range Results
The 70 mph test ended with the Bolt's battery at 1% state of charge after 243 miles. The new 80 mph test concluded at the same 1% charge level, but after only 219.3 miles. The difference of 23.8 miles represents approximately a 10% range loss at the higher speed.
Tom from State Of Charge noted the 219-mile result "is not bad" given the demanding speed. Both tests ran the battery from 100% to nearly empty.
Energy Consumption and Efficiency
While total energy used was nearly identical between the two runs, efficiency dropped markedly at higher speed. The vehicle's average energy consumption increased by about 12%.
| Test Speed | Average Efficiency | Energy Consumption per Mile |
|---|---|---|
| 70 mph | 3.6 miles/kWh | 278 Wh/mile |
| 80 mph | 3.2 miles/kWh | 313 Wh/mile |
The car's computer reported using 66.3 kWh during the 80 mph test, similar to the 66.6 kWh used at 70 mph.
Impact on Driving Time and Cost
Driving 10 mph faster reduces travel time by about 14% for a given distance. This comes with trade-offs. The reduced range may necessitate additional charging stops on long trips. It also increases energy costs.
State Of Charge provided cost estimates for frequent high-speed driving. Based on their calculations, driving 10,000 miles at 80 mph versus 70 mph would increase charging expenses. The exact amount depends on the charging method used.
| Charging Type | Cost per kWh | Estimated Extra Cost per 10,000 Miles |
|---|---|---|
| Home Charging | $0.23 | $80 |
| DC Fast Charging | $0.50 | $175 |
The channel plans further testing on the higher RS trim of the 2027 Bolt. They also promise an analysis comparing its DC fast-charging capability to the previous-generation model.
