DETROIT _ The Chevrolet Bolt wins the electric-vehicle range race.
That's the finding from Consumer Reports, which said the extended-range electric vehicle rolled to an impressive 250 miles on a charge in its testing. That put the compact Bolt ahead of its closest competitors, two Tesla models, both of which cost more than the Bolt.
"In our electric-vehicle range test, we put the Bolt head-to-head against our 2016 Tesla Model S 75D. The Tesla ran out of juice at 235 miles, while the Bolt motored on for another 15 miles," the publication reported.
The Bolt has a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rating of 238 miles on a charge.
Consumer Reports said its electric-vehicle range test involves mixed driving, much of it at 65 mph.
"If you were to meander on country roads at 45 mph, you might get even more range. To ensure repeatability, the CR tests are done with the air conditioning and heater off. Hard acceleration and running the HVAC system can cut the range significantly, as can driving in very cold temperatures," the publication reported.
The electric-range testing results prompted Consumer Reports to place the Bolt at No. 2 in its overall electric vehicle rankings, behind only the Tesla Model S. The publication said it gave the Bolt kudos for range, agility and a quiet cabin and lower marks for an "overly squishy brake-pedal feel," charging time, choppy ride and uncomfortable seats.
Price, however, could be a major factor for some considering a purchase, with the Bolt at $37,495 and the Tesla Model S 75D at $75,700 before a $7,500 federal tax credit, the publication said.
