Book

The Chevrolet Bolt: The World's First Mass-Market Electric Vehicle

2024

Synopsis

When the Chevrolet Bolt hit the market, it was the only EV offering a range of over 200 miles for less than $60,000. This book tells the story of this remarkable car, delving into GM’s track record with electrified vehicles, why GM designed the Bolt in Korea, the bizarre investment in tooling for four different body designs, and the battery developments and government incentives that made it all possible. It also covers controversies over Onstar, GM’s unprecedented experimental partnership with LG, and how the two companies responded with a $2 billion recall when Bolts burst into flames.

The Bolt’s evolution into the Cruise robotaxi, built on the GM assembly line, made it the world’s first mass-produced Autonomous Vehicle. This book covers how the ambitious plans came off the rails when an accident led to Cruise’s temporary suspension and the firing of executives.

After GM announced its discontinuation, Mary Barra intervened, reversing the decision, extending production, and committing to reintroducing the car in an even better form.

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