The Chevrolet Bolt EV is an all-electric hatchback that offers practicality, technology, and efficiency in one affordable package. With two well-equipped trim levels, 1LT and 2LT, buyers have options when it comes to features and pricing.
This article will compare the key differences between the 1LT and 2LT to help you decide which Bolt configuration is best for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Bolt 1LT | Bolt 2LT |
| Price | $27,200 + destination | $30,395 + destination |
| Range | 259 miles | 259 miles |
| Motor | 200 hp/266 lb-ft torque | 200 hp/266 lb-ft torque |
| Wheels | 17″ aluminum | 17″ aluminum, different style |
| Seats | Cloth | Perforated leather |
| Infotainment | 10.2″ touchscreen, 6-speaker | 10.2″ touchscreen, Bose 7-speaker |
| Safety Tech | FCA, LKAS, etc | Adds RCTA, LCA, Rear Park Assist |
Bolt 1LT Overview
As the base trim, the Bolt 1LT comes well-equipped with plenty of standard features. The exterior includes 17” aluminum wheels, automatic halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, and rear vision camera. Inside, the 1LT has a 10.2” color touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, keyless open, push-button start, cloth seats, heated front seats, and single-zone automatic climate control.
For safety, Chevrolet equips the 1LT trim with Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Front Pedestrian Braking, Automatic Emergency Braking, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams.
The 1LT uses a single electric motor powered by a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, generating 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This allows for quick acceleration and a driving range up to 259 miles on a full charge. Charging is flexible with the standard 7.2 kW onboard charger or available DC Fast Charging capability.
Bolt 2LT Adds More Features
Stepping up to the 2LT trim adds several upgrades over the 1LT to enhance comfort, convenience, and styling.
On the outside, the 2LT gains distinct 17” aluminum wheels, roof rails, and bright lower bodyside accents. Inside, the perforated leather-appointed seats are heated in both rows and ventilated up front. The rear seats gain heating functionality as well. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is heated, lending extra comfort on cold days.
For convenience, the 2LT trim adds the Infotainment Package with a color Driver Information Center, HD Surround Vision rear camera, HD rear vision camera, rear camera mirror, wireless phone charging, and Bose premium 7-speaker sound system.
Advanced safety technologies like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, and Rear Park Assist become standard on the 2LT. Adaptive cruise control improves the driving experience, automatically adjusting speed to maintain a set distance between the Bolt and vehicles ahead.
Performance And Range
Performance and battery specs remain identical across 1LT and 2LT models. The electric motor generates 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. The 60 kWh lithium-ion battery enables an EPA-estimated driving range of 259 miles on a full charge.
DC Fast Charging capability allows the Bolt to recharge up to 100 miles of range in 30 minutes. The standard 7.2 kW onboard charger fully recharges the battery overnight when using a 240-volt outlet.
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Cargo Space And Passenger Room
With its hatchback design, the Bolt EV offers excellent cargo versatility. Both trims provide 16.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. Folding the 60/40 split rear seat opens up a maximum of 56.6 cubic feet of cargo room.
Passenger space remains the same in both trims, with seating for five adults. Front seat legroom measures 41.6 inches, while rear seats have 36.5 inches of legroom. This makes the Bolt very spacious for its compact footprint.
Infotainment And Connectivity
A 10.2” color touchscreen comes standard on both trims, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth wireless. The intuitive infotainment system makes it easy to stream music, navigate, and access connected apps on the go.
Stepping up to the 2LT adds supplemental tech like wireless device charging, HD camera views, and a Bose premium audio system for amplified entertainment. The Rear Camera Mirror provides a wider rear view that’s not obstructed by passengers or cargo.
Safety Technology
The Bolt 1LT comes well equipped with active safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Alert. The IntelliBeam system automatically switches between low and high beams when it detects other vehicles.
The 2LT adds more advanced driver assists like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Park Assist, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies provide an extra layer of awareness and protection all around the vehicle.
Also watch the video about Chevy Bolt 1LT!
Warranty Coverage
Chevrolet covers the Bolt EV with the following warranty protection:
- 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper coverage
- 8 years/100,000 miles for electric components and battery
- 5 years/60,000 miles for roadside assistance
The battery warranty covers repairs and replacements needed for defects in materials or workmanship. It helps give peace of mind for owning an electric vehicle.
Pricing Comparison
The 2023 Chevy Bolt 1LT starts at an MSRP of $27,200 plus a destination charge of $995. Opting for the 2LT trim bumps the MSRP to $30,395.
Adding options like DC Fast Charging to the 1LT can close the price gap somewhat. But the 2LT includes many upgrades bundled together for convenience and value. Incentives and tax credits may also help reduce real-world pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences are the 2LT has more stylish wheels, roof rails, perforated leather seats, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, Bose audio, HD camera system, advanced safety tech, and adaptive cruise control.
GM is discontinuing the Chevy Bolt after 2023 in favor of launching two new electric crossovers, the Equinox EV and Blazer EV. The Bolt helped pave the way, but GM is shifting focus to larger EV models.
The L gearing mode on the Chevy Bolt increases regenerative braking. It allows for one-pedal driving, slowing the car when lifting off the accelerator to charge the battery and save range.
The 1LT is the base trim level across many Chevrolet models. It offers core features and styling in an affordable package. Upgrading to 2LT or 3LT adds more premium details and technology.Also Read
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Conclusion
The 2LT trim upgrades key elements like the exterior styling, interior comfort, infotainment tech, and safety aids. If staying within budget, the 1LT still provides a well-equipped electric vehicle. But for the full Bolt EV experience, the 2LT may be worth the extra cost.
Evaluate how you’ll use the Bolt and which features match your needs. For a commuter vehicle, the 1LT offers plenty of range and function. The 2LT caters more to tech and comfort expectations. Both offer the essential electric vehicle advantages of the Bolt platform.
This covers the key differences between the 1LT and 2LT trims of the Chevy Bolt EV. The 2LT provides more styling, comfort and tech upgrades for a higher price. Both offer similar performance and electric driving range. Choose based on budget and feature priorities.