In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), the names Nissan and Chevrolet loom large. This article will compare two popular models from these automakers: the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Nissan and Chevrolet, both titans of the automotive industry, approach EV manufacturing with different philosophies and design cues reflected in their respective models.
Interestingly, both the Leaf and Bolt EVs are priced competitively, with a recommended retail price (RRP) that hovers around the average price point for EVs, making them attractive options for a wide range of consumers.
The Nissan Leaf, the flagship EV offering from the Japanese automaker, has a lot to offer. The Leaf has made a name for itself with its reliable performance, spacious interior and highly efficient electric powertrain.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a product of American ingenuity and engineering. The Bolt EV is renowned for its long electric range, innovative safety features and sporty yet comfortable design.
These two vehicles, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV, are direct rivals in the global EV market. In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will delve deeper into their individual characteristics, comparing the vehicles and figuring out what each model brings to the table.
In terms of looks, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV have their own unique appeal. With its sleek, aerodynamic design, the Leaf boasts a futuristic look. Its signature V-Motion grille and boomerang-shaped lights lend it a distinctive Nissan identity.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV maintains a more traditional hatchback appearance with its compact proportions and smooth curves. It incorporates the iconic Chevrolet grille, blending the familiar and the new.
Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Some may prefer the futuristic stance of the Leaf, while others might find comfort in the Bolt's more traditional design cues.
Inside, both vehicles showcase their commitment to comfort and technology. The Nissan Leaf's interior is modern and spacious, with a simple, user-friendly layout. One of its standout features is the innovative e-Pedal, which allows drivers to accelerate, decelerate and brake using just one pedal.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV provides a surprisingly roomy interior for its size, with a clean, intuitive design. Its key differentiator is the 10.2-inch diagonal colour touch-screen, providing easy access to information and entertainment.
The Bolt EV might edge out the Leaf with its larger infotainment screen and slightly more premium materials used in the interior construction.
With its generous legroom and headroom, the Nissan Leaf offers comfortable seating for five passengers. Its ample luggage space makes it a practical choice for families or those with regular cargo needs. The Leaf also boasts a robust infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV, while compact, cleverly utilises its space to provide ample room for passengers and cargo. Its flat floor design allows for even more storage capacity than expected. The Bolt EV also features a high-quality infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
In terms of practicality, both vehicles are strong contenders. The final choice will come down to your preferences.
The Leaf provides a fun, nimble driving experience with its instant torque and smooth power delivery. It takes about 7.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, with a top speed of around 89 mph. It's equipped with a front-wheel-drive powertrain, offering a balanced blend of efficiency and performance.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, with its responsive electric motor and low centre of gravity, delivers a surprisingly zippy drive. It can hit 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 91 mph. Like the Leaf, the Bolt EV is also front-wheel drive.
While the Bolt EV is a bit quicker off the line and has a marginally higher top speed, both vehicles offer a smooth, quiet ride characteristic of electric cars. The Leaf's e-Pedal feature adds an additional layer of convenience to city driving, while the Bolt's slightly sportier driving dynamics might appeal to those looking for a more engaging drive.
Range anxiety is a common concern among potential EV buyers, but both the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are designed to alleviate such worries. The Nissan Leaf comes in two variants: the standard Leaf offers a range of about 149 miles, while the Leaf Plus extends that to around 226 miles on a single charge.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV impresses with an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles on a single charge. This longer range places the Bolt EV among the top non-luxury electric vehicles for range, and it certainly helps alleviate range anxiety.
In terms of sheer range, the Chevrolet Bolt EV has the edge over the Nissan Leaf. However, both vehicles offer enough range to cover daily driving needs for most users comfortably.
Charging is a crucial factor when considering an electric vehicle, and both the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV offer competitive charging capabilities. Both cars can be charged using AC or DC power, with DC fast-charging significantly reducing the time it takes to recharge the battery.
The Nissan Leaf has two battery options, depending on the model: a 40 kWh battery for the standard Leaf and a 62 kWh battery for the Leaf Plus. It is equipped with a CHAdeMO connector for DC fast charging, allowing it to recharge at speeds up to 50 kW.
At this max DC charging speed, the Leaf can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 60 minutes. For AC charging, the Leaf can handle rates up to 6.6 kW. Charging at this maximum AC rate, the standard Leaf would take around 6 hours to charge fully, while the Leaf Plus would take approximately 9.5 hours.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is equipped with a 66 kWh battery. It uses a CCS (Combined Charging System) connector for DC fast charging, supporting charging rates up to 55 kW.
At this maximum DC charging speed, the Bolt can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 60 minutes. For AC charging, the Bolt EV can handle up to 7.2 kW. It would take around 9 hours to charge the Bolt EV fully at this maximum AC rate.
Nissan and Chevrolet drivers can rely on a growing network of third-party charging stations. Using an app like Bonnet can help drivers locate available chargers with suitable charging speeds.
It's important to note that for long-term battery health, it's often recommended to charge your EV battery between 10% and 80% rather than from 0% to 100%. This strategy can help to prolong battery lifespan.
Here is a table comparing estimated charging times for the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV at different charging speeds:
Please note that charging times can vary based on factors like the state of the battery, temperature and the exact power output of the charging station. Also, continually charging at rapid speeds may negatively impact the battery's health over time. As mentioned, maintaining a charging range of 10% - 80% is often a better practice for optimal battery health.
The Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV are competitively priced in the UK market.
For the Nissan Leaf, UK buyers have two main options. The Nissan Leaf Acenta, with a 40 kWh battery and a range of 168 miles, starts at around £28,940. The Nissan Leaf e+ Tekna, which comes with a 62 kWh battery and a range of 239 miles, is priced at £36,390.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is not officially sold in the UK under the Chevrolet brand. Instead, a very similar vehicle is sold by Chevrolet's parent company, General Motors, under the Vauxhall brand, known as the Vauxhall Corsa-e. The Corsa-e starts at £33,930.
When comparing value for money, the choice between the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV (or its UK equivalent, the Vauxhall Corsa-e) can depend on several factors. For instance, while more expensive, the Nissan Leaf e+ Tekna offers a longer range and more features than the base model Vauxhall Corsa-e. However, the Corsa-e might be seen as a better value for those who don't require the extra range and features.
While the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are strong contenders in their price range, there are other electric vehicles in the UK market that potential buyers might want to consider.
The Renault Zoe is a popular choice for a similar price, starting at around £29,240.
For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus starts at around £42,000. It offers a range of 278 miles, advanced autopilot features and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
After a comprehensive comparison of the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV in areas such as performance, range, charging, price, exterior and interior design, and practicality, it becomes clear that each vehicle has its strengths.
The Nissan Leaf excels in terms of its battery size and range options, offering flexibility for drivers with different needs. Its interior is also well-designed and comfortable, while the exterior design is distinctive and stylish. The Leaf's performance is solid, and its charging capabilities are commendable.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV also puts up a strong performance, with a fun-to-drive nature and impressive range from its 66 kWh battery. It offers a practical and spacious interior and a modern exterior look. Its fast charging capabilities are competitive, and its pricing provides good value for money.
The decision between the two might come down to personal preferences and specific requirements. However, considering all factors, the Nissan Leaf stands out slightly due to its versatility in terms of range options and a slightly more premium feel in its higher-end models.
While some motorists have the luxury of home charging stations or workplace chargers, most rely on public charging to keep their batteries topped up. Public charging offers the quickest charging speeds, including rapid and ultra-rapid charging.
Although public charging is affordable and widely accessible, some drivers might find it annoying due to the different requirements of each charging network, from RFID cards and memberships to multiple apps. This is where Bonnet steps in, simplifying the charging experience for EV drivers.
Bonnet is an intuitive app allowing drivers to quickly locate the nearest and most cost-effective charging station that provides the required charging speeds. With Bonnet, you can access multiple network charging points using a single app, eliminating the need to clutter your phone with numerous apps.
In collaboration with some of the UK's leading charging networks, Bonnet ensures that every driver can find their ideal charger using our app. Our reach extends beyond the UK to European destinations like the Netherlands, France and Germany. We're partnered with over 17 charging network providers, including notable networks such as Alfa Power, char.gy, Shell Recharge and GeniePoint.
You can use Bonnet for free to access charging stations, but we also offer a membership called Bonnet Boosts for customers seeking discounts on their charging. Our Light Boost membership, priced at £2 per month, provides 10% off your charging bill, translating to substantial annual savings. This option is ideal for drivers with a personal charging point but still use public charging stations.
For drivers without access to a home or work charging point and who depend on public charging, our Turbo Boost membership, at £8 per month, offers 15% off charging at our partners' stations.
The Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Bolt are known for their reliability. The Leaf has been in production for over a decade, and its long track record and widespread use have shown it to be a durable and dependable vehicle. On the other hand, the Bolt has also been praised for its reliability and build quality. Specific reliability ratings can vary year by year and model by model, so it's worth checking out up-to-date resources for the latest data.
Regarding dimensions, the Chevy Bolt is slightly shorter than the Nissan Leaf. However, the Bolt is taller and offers more headroom, which could make it feel more spacious, especially for taller passengers. Regarding cargo space, the Nissan Leaf offers more overall cargo capacity.
The Chevy Bolt is a strong contender in the electric vehicle market due to its substantial range, practical interior and competitive pricing. However, whether it's the "best" electric car will depend on individual needs and preferences.
Some criticisms include a less sporty driving experience compared to some rivals and a relatively plain interior design in lower-end models. The range of the standard Leaf model might also be insufficient for some drivers.
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), the names Nissan and Chevrolet loom large. This article will compare two popular models from these automakers: the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Nissan and Chevrolet, both titans of the automotive industry, approach EV manufacturing with different philosophies and design cues reflected in their respective models.
Interestingly, both the Leaf and Bolt EVs are priced competitively, with a recommended retail price (RRP) that hovers around the average price point for EVs, making them attractive options for a wide range of consumers.
The Nissan Leaf, the flagship EV offering from the Japanese automaker, has a lot to offer. The Leaf has made a name for itself with its reliable performance, spacious interior and highly efficient electric powertrain.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a product of American ingenuity and engineering. The Bolt EV is renowned for its long electric range, innovative safety features and sporty yet comfortable design.
These two vehicles, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV, are direct rivals in the global EV market. In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will delve deeper into their individual characteristics, comparing the vehicles and figuring out what each model brings to the table.
In terms of looks, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV have their own unique appeal. With its sleek, aerodynamic design, the Leaf boasts a futuristic look. Its signature V-Motion grille and boomerang-shaped lights lend it a distinctive Nissan identity.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV maintains a more traditional hatchback appearance with its compact proportions and smooth curves. It incorporates the iconic Chevrolet grille, blending the familiar and the new.
Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Some may prefer the futuristic stance of the Leaf, while others might find comfort in the Bolt's more traditional design cues.
Inside, both vehicles showcase their commitment to comfort and technology. The Nissan Leaf's interior is modern and spacious, with a simple, user-friendly layout. One of its standout features is the innovative e-Pedal, which allows drivers to accelerate, decelerate and brake using just one pedal.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV provides a surprisingly roomy interior for its size, with a clean, intuitive design. Its key differentiator is the 10.2-inch diagonal colour touch-screen, providing easy access to information and entertainment.
The Bolt EV might edge out the Leaf with its larger infotainment screen and slightly more premium materials used in the interior construction.
With its generous legroom and headroom, the Nissan Leaf offers comfortable seating for five passengers. Its ample luggage space makes it a practical choice for families or those with regular cargo needs. The Leaf also boasts a robust infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV, while compact, cleverly utilises its space to provide ample room for passengers and cargo. Its flat floor design allows for even more storage capacity than expected. The Bolt EV also features a high-quality infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
In terms of practicality, both vehicles are strong contenders. The final choice will come down to your preferences.
The Leaf provides a fun, nimble driving experience with its instant torque and smooth power delivery. It takes about 7.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, with a top speed of around 89 mph. It's equipped with a front-wheel-drive powertrain, offering a balanced blend of efficiency and performance.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, with its responsive electric motor and low centre of gravity, delivers a surprisingly zippy drive. It can hit 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 91 mph. Like the Leaf, the Bolt EV is also front-wheel drive.
While the Bolt EV is a bit quicker off the line and has a marginally higher top speed, both vehicles offer a smooth, quiet ride characteristic of electric cars. The Leaf's e-Pedal feature adds an additional layer of convenience to city driving, while the Bolt's slightly sportier driving dynamics might appeal to those looking for a more engaging drive.
Range anxiety is a common concern among potential EV buyers, but both the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are designed to alleviate such worries. The Nissan Leaf comes in two variants: the standard Leaf offers a range of about 149 miles, while the Leaf Plus extends that to around 226 miles on a single charge.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV impresses with an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles on a single charge. This longer range places the Bolt EV among the top non-luxury electric vehicles for range, and it certainly helps alleviate range anxiety.
In terms of sheer range, the Chevrolet Bolt EV has the edge over the Nissan Leaf. However, both vehicles offer enough range to cover daily driving needs for most users comfortably.
Charging is a crucial factor when considering an electric vehicle, and both the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV offer competitive charging capabilities. Both cars can be charged using AC or DC power, with DC fast-charging significantly reducing the time it takes to recharge the battery.
The Nissan Leaf has two battery options, depending on the model: a 40 kWh battery for the standard Leaf and a 62 kWh battery for the Leaf Plus. It is equipped with a CHAdeMO connector for DC fast charging, allowing it to recharge at speeds up to 50 kW.
At this max DC charging speed, the Leaf can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 60 minutes. For AC charging, the Leaf can handle rates up to 6.6 kW. Charging at this maximum AC rate, the standard Leaf would take around 6 hours to charge fully, while the Leaf Plus would take approximately 9.5 hours.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is equipped with a 66 kWh battery. It uses a CCS (Combined Charging System) connector for DC fast charging, supporting charging rates up to 55 kW.
At this maximum DC charging speed, the Bolt can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 60 minutes. For AC charging, the Bolt EV can handle up to 7.2 kW. It would take around 9 hours to charge the Bolt EV fully at this maximum AC rate.
Nissan and Chevrolet drivers can rely on a growing network of third-party charging stations. Using an app like Bonnet can help drivers locate available chargers with suitable charging speeds.
It's important to note that for long-term battery health, it's often recommended to charge your EV battery between 10% and 80% rather than from 0% to 100%. This strategy can help to prolong battery lifespan.
Here is a table comparing estimated charging times for the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV at different charging speeds:
Please note that charging times can vary based on factors like the state of the battery, temperature and the exact power output of the charging station. Also, continually charging at rapid speeds may negatively impact the battery's health over time. As mentioned, maintaining a charging range of 10% - 80% is often a better practice for optimal battery health.
The Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV are competitively priced in the UK market.
For the Nissan Leaf, UK buyers have two main options. The Nissan Leaf Acenta, with a 40 kWh battery and a range of 168 miles, starts at around £28,940. The Nissan Leaf e+ Tekna, which comes with a 62 kWh battery and a range of 239 miles, is priced at £36,390.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is not officially sold in the UK under the Chevrolet brand. Instead, a very similar vehicle is sold by Chevrolet's parent company, General Motors, under the Vauxhall brand, known as the Vauxhall Corsa-e. The Corsa-e starts at £33,930.
When comparing value for money, the choice between the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV (or its UK equivalent, the Vauxhall Corsa-e) can depend on several factors. For instance, while more expensive, the Nissan Leaf e+ Tekna offers a longer range and more features than the base model Vauxhall Corsa-e. However, the Corsa-e might be seen as a better value for those who don't require the extra range and features.
While the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are strong contenders in their price range, there are other electric vehicles in the UK market that potential buyers might want to consider.
The Renault Zoe is a popular choice for a similar price, starting at around £29,240.
For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus starts at around £42,000. It offers a range of 278 miles, advanced autopilot features and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
After a comprehensive comparison of the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV in areas such as performance, range, charging, price, exterior and interior design, and practicality, it becomes clear that each vehicle has its strengths.
The Nissan Leaf excels in terms of its battery size and range options, offering flexibility for drivers with different needs. Its interior is also well-designed and comfortable, while the exterior design is distinctive and stylish. The Leaf's performance is solid, and its charging capabilities are commendable.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV also puts up a strong performance, with a fun-to-drive nature and impressive range from its 66 kWh battery. It offers a practical and spacious interior and a modern exterior look. Its fast charging capabilities are competitive, and its pricing provides good value for money.
The decision between the two might come down to personal preferences and specific requirements. However, considering all factors, the Nissan Leaf stands out slightly due to its versatility in terms of range options and a slightly more premium feel in its higher-end models.
While some motorists have the luxury of home charging stations or workplace chargers, most rely on public charging to keep their batteries topped up. Public charging offers the quickest charging speeds, including rapid and ultra-rapid charging.
Although public charging is affordable and widely accessible, some drivers might find it annoying due to the different requirements of each charging network, from RFID cards and memberships to multiple apps. This is where Bonnet steps in, simplifying the charging experience for EV drivers.
Bonnet is an intuitive app allowing drivers to quickly locate the nearest and most cost-effective charging station that provides the required charging speeds. With Bonnet, you can access multiple network charging points using a single app, eliminating the need to clutter your phone with numerous apps.
In collaboration with some of the UK's leading charging networks, Bonnet ensures that every driver can find their ideal charger using our app. Our reach extends beyond the UK to European destinations like the Netherlands, France and Germany. We're partnered with over 17 charging network providers, including notable networks such as Alfa Power, char.gy, Shell Recharge and GeniePoint.
You can use Bonnet for free to access charging stations, but we also offer a membership called Bonnet Boosts for customers seeking discounts on their charging. Our Light Boost membership, priced at £2 per month, provides 10% off your charging bill, translating to substantial annual savings. This option is ideal for drivers with a personal charging point but still use public charging stations.
For drivers without access to a home or work charging point and who depend on public charging, our Turbo Boost membership, at £8 per month, offers 15% off charging at our partners' stations.
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), the names Nissan and Chevrolet loom large. This article will compare two popular models from these automakers: the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Nissan and Chevrolet, both titans of the automotive industry, approach EV manufacturing with different philosophies and design cues reflected in their respective models.
Interestingly, both the Leaf and Bolt EVs are priced competitively, with a recommended retail price (RRP) that hovers around the average price point for EVs, making them attractive options for a wide range of consumers.
The Nissan Leaf, the flagship EV offering from the Japanese automaker, has a lot to offer. The Leaf has made a name for itself with its reliable performance, spacious interior and highly efficient electric powertrain.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a product of American ingenuity and engineering. The Bolt EV is renowned for its long electric range, innovative safety features and sporty yet comfortable design.
These two vehicles, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV, are direct rivals in the global EV market. In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will delve deeper into their individual characteristics, comparing the vehicles and figuring out what each model brings to the table.
In terms of looks, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV have their own unique appeal. With its sleek, aerodynamic design, the Leaf boasts a futuristic look. Its signature V-Motion grille and boomerang-shaped lights lend it a distinctive Nissan identity.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV maintains a more traditional hatchback appearance with its compact proportions and smooth curves. It incorporates the iconic Chevrolet grille, blending the familiar and the new.
Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Some may prefer the futuristic stance of the Leaf, while others might find comfort in the Bolt's more traditional design cues.
Inside, both vehicles showcase their commitment to comfort and technology. The Nissan Leaf's interior is modern and spacious, with a simple, user-friendly layout. One of its standout features is the innovative e-Pedal, which allows drivers to accelerate, decelerate and brake using just one pedal.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV provides a surprisingly roomy interior for its size, with a clean, intuitive design. Its key differentiator is the 10.2-inch diagonal colour touch-screen, providing easy access to information and entertainment.
The Bolt EV might edge out the Leaf with its larger infotainment screen and slightly more premium materials used in the interior construction.
With its generous legroom and headroom, the Nissan Leaf offers comfortable seating for five passengers. Its ample luggage space makes it a practical choice for families or those with regular cargo needs. The Leaf also boasts a robust infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV, while compact, cleverly utilises its space to provide ample room for passengers and cargo. Its flat floor design allows for even more storage capacity than expected. The Bolt EV also features a high-quality infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
In terms of practicality, both vehicles are strong contenders. The final choice will come down to your preferences.
The Leaf provides a fun, nimble driving experience with its instant torque and smooth power delivery. It takes about 7.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, with a top speed of around 89 mph. It's equipped with a front-wheel-drive powertrain, offering a balanced blend of efficiency and performance.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, with its responsive electric motor and low centre of gravity, delivers a surprisingly zippy drive. It can hit 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 91 mph. Like the Leaf, the Bolt EV is also front-wheel drive.
While the Bolt EV is a bit quicker off the line and has a marginally higher top speed, both vehicles offer a smooth, quiet ride characteristic of electric cars. The Leaf's e-Pedal feature adds an additional layer of convenience to city driving, while the Bolt's slightly sportier driving dynamics might appeal to those looking for a more engaging drive.
Range anxiety is a common concern among potential EV buyers, but both the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are designed to alleviate such worries. The Nissan Leaf comes in two variants: the standard Leaf offers a range of about 149 miles, while the Leaf Plus extends that to around 226 miles on a single charge.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV impresses with an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles on a single charge. This longer range places the Bolt EV among the top non-luxury electric vehicles for range, and it certainly helps alleviate range anxiety.
In terms of sheer range, the Chevrolet Bolt EV has the edge over the Nissan Leaf. However, both vehicles offer enough range to cover daily driving needs for most users comfortably.
Charging is a crucial factor when considering an electric vehicle, and both the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV offer competitive charging capabilities. Both cars can be charged using AC or DC power, with DC fast-charging significantly reducing the time it takes to recharge the battery.
The Nissan Leaf has two battery options, depending on the model: a 40 kWh battery for the standard Leaf and a 62 kWh battery for the Leaf Plus. It is equipped with a CHAdeMO connector for DC fast charging, allowing it to recharge at speeds up to 50 kW.
At this max DC charging speed, the Leaf can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 60 minutes. For AC charging, the Leaf can handle rates up to 6.6 kW. Charging at this maximum AC rate, the standard Leaf would take around 6 hours to charge fully, while the Leaf Plus would take approximately 9.5 hours.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is equipped with a 66 kWh battery. It uses a CCS (Combined Charging System) connector for DC fast charging, supporting charging rates up to 55 kW.
At this maximum DC charging speed, the Bolt can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 60 minutes. For AC charging, the Bolt EV can handle up to 7.2 kW. It would take around 9 hours to charge the Bolt EV fully at this maximum AC rate.
Nissan and Chevrolet drivers can rely on a growing network of third-party charging stations. Using an app like Bonnet can help drivers locate available chargers with suitable charging speeds.
It's important to note that for long-term battery health, it's often recommended to charge your EV battery between 10% and 80% rather than from 0% to 100%. This strategy can help to prolong battery lifespan.
Here is a table comparing estimated charging times for the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV at different charging speeds:
Please note that charging times can vary based on factors like the state of the battery, temperature and the exact power output of the charging station. Also, continually charging at rapid speeds may negatively impact the battery's health over time. As mentioned, maintaining a charging range of 10% - 80% is often a better practice for optimal battery health.
The Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV are competitively priced in the UK market.
For the Nissan Leaf, UK buyers have two main options. The Nissan Leaf Acenta, with a 40 kWh battery and a range of 168 miles, starts at around £28,940. The Nissan Leaf e+ Tekna, which comes with a 62 kWh battery and a range of 239 miles, is priced at £36,390.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is not officially sold in the UK under the Chevrolet brand. Instead, a very similar vehicle is sold by Chevrolet's parent company, General Motors, under the Vauxhall brand, known as the Vauxhall Corsa-e. The Corsa-e starts at £33,930.
When comparing value for money, the choice between the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV (or its UK equivalent, the Vauxhall Corsa-e) can depend on several factors. For instance, while more expensive, the Nissan Leaf e+ Tekna offers a longer range and more features than the base model Vauxhall Corsa-e. However, the Corsa-e might be seen as a better value for those who don't require the extra range and features.
While the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are strong contenders in their price range, there are other electric vehicles in the UK market that potential buyers might want to consider.
The Renault Zoe is a popular choice for a similar price, starting at around £29,240.
For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus starts at around £42,000. It offers a range of 278 miles, advanced autopilot features and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
After a comprehensive comparison of the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV in areas such as performance, range, charging, price, exterior and interior design, and practicality, it becomes clear that each vehicle has its strengths.
The Nissan Leaf excels in terms of its battery size and range options, offering flexibility for drivers with different needs. Its interior is also well-designed and comfortable, while the exterior design is distinctive and stylish. The Leaf's performance is solid, and its charging capabilities are commendable.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Bolt EV also puts up a strong performance, with a fun-to-drive nature and impressive range from its 66 kWh battery. It offers a practical and spacious interior and a modern exterior look. Its fast charging capabilities are competitive, and its pricing provides good value for money.
The decision between the two might come down to personal preferences and specific requirements. However, considering all factors, the Nissan Leaf stands out slightly due to its versatility in terms of range options and a slightly more premium feel in its higher-end models.
While some motorists have the luxury of home charging stations or workplace chargers, most rely on public charging to keep their batteries topped up. Public charging offers the quickest charging speeds, including rapid and ultra-rapid charging.
Although public charging is affordable and widely accessible, some drivers might find it annoying due to the different requirements of each charging network, from RFID cards and memberships to multiple apps. This is where Bonnet steps in, simplifying the charging experience for EV drivers.
Bonnet is an intuitive app allowing drivers to quickly locate the nearest and most cost-effective charging station that provides the required charging speeds. With Bonnet, you can access multiple network charging points using a single app, eliminating the need to clutter your phone with numerous apps.
In collaboration with some of the UK's leading charging networks, Bonnet ensures that every driver can find their ideal charger using our app. Our reach extends beyond the UK to European destinations like the Netherlands, France and Germany. We're partnered with over 17 charging network providers, including notable networks such as Alfa Power, char.gy, Shell Recharge and GeniePoint.
You can use Bonnet for free to access charging stations, but we also offer a membership called Bonnet Boosts for customers seeking discounts on their charging. Our Light Boost membership, priced at £2 per month, provides 10% off your charging bill, translating to substantial annual savings. This option is ideal for drivers with a personal charging point but still use public charging stations.
For drivers without access to a home or work charging point and who depend on public charging, our Turbo Boost membership, at £8 per month, offers 15% off charging at our partners' stations.
The Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Bolt are known for their reliability. The Leaf has been in production for over a decade, and its long track record and widespread use have shown it to be a durable and dependable vehicle. On the other hand, the Bolt has also been praised for its reliability and build quality. Specific reliability ratings can vary year by year and model by model, so it's worth checking out up-to-date resources for the latest data.
Regarding dimensions, the Chevy Bolt is slightly shorter than the Nissan Leaf. However, the Bolt is taller and offers more headroom, which could make it feel more spacious, especially for taller passengers. Regarding cargo space, the Nissan Leaf offers more overall cargo capacity.
The Chevy Bolt is a strong contender in the electric vehicle market due to its substantial range, practical interior and competitive pricing. However, whether it's the "best" electric car will depend on individual needs and preferences.
Some criticisms include a less sporty driving experience compared to some rivals and a relatively plain interior design in lower-end models. The range of the standard Leaf model might also be insufficient for some drivers.
