This EV Is Affordable Enough for Almost Anyone

Buying an EV may not have crossed your mind if you’re looking for affordable used cars. This electric vehicle will make you think again.

The reality of buying an EV is that they are more expensive than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. However, prices have decreased in recent years, and as with all used cars, pre-owned models are more affordable than new ones.

There aren’t many used cars, in general, that you can buy for less than $15,000, let alone used EVs. Of the handful of vehicles that fall into this category, the Chevrolet Bolt EV stands out. Read on to discover why you should consider this impressive EV if you plan to buy used on a budget.

Solid Range for the Price

Given its use of relatively small 66 kWh lithium-ion batteries, the Chevrolet Bolt EV has a surprisingly high range. It gets an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles, which is about average for the segment, even among today’s much higher-priced new EVs.

If you compare the Chevrolet Bolt EV’s range to its chief competitor, the Nissan Leaf, you’ll see that the range is nothing to scoff at. Even the Leaf+ only gets an EPA-estimated 212 miles per charge.

Unique Style and Compelling Tech for an Older EV

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is no luxury vehicle. You’ll find run-of-the-mill materials throughout, not premium alternatives. That said, it is a uniquely stylish ride. If you can find a model from 2022-2024, you’ll find enhanced interior and exterior designs thanks to a mid-cycle facelift.

packed with cutting-edge tech for the time. You’ll get an eight-inch, fully digital gauge cluster and a 10.2-inch infotainment center with smartphone integration in any model. In 2022, GM added available Super Cruise and introduced the Bolt EUV, a more rugged alternative to the traditional Bolt EV.

What You Should Look for in These Used Cars

EVs age differently from ICE cars. Buyers should know what to look for when purchasing used EVs to get vehicles with plenty of life left in them, particularly given the Bolt’s 2020 battery recall.

At the time, Chevrolet used lithium-ion nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries made by LG Chem. After the 2020 Chevy Bolt EV was released, it was determined that it had a high chance of battery fires when charged to 100%.

The recall fixed these batteries, and people who brought their cars back in got an additional eight-year warranty starting from the date of the new battery installation for some extra peace of mind. In other words: buy a 2020 Chevy Bolt EV if you can find it, but ensure the battery has been replaced.

Otherwise, the Bolt EVs are known for being reliable used cars. Their simple design netted them an iSeeCars reliability score of 7.1 out of 10, so there’s little to watch out for in the Bolt EV. Just check the battery’s health and how long it has left under warranty.