Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity as more environmentally conscious consumers seek greener transportation options. Two compelling EV options on the market are the 2023 Chevy Bolt EV and the upcoming Volvo EX30. These electric cars have unique strengths and weaknesses that appeal to different buyer priorities. By comparing critical factors like range, performance, tech features, and more, we can determine the better overall EV choice.
Overview of the Chevy Bolt EV and Volvo EX30
The Chevy Bolt EV is an affordable, functional electric hatchback with ample range for daily driving. An EPA-estimated 259 miles of range allows you to comfortably commute and run errands between charges. Plus, with a $7,500 federal tax credit, the Bolt keeps EV ownership budgets reasonable.
Meanwhile, the Volvo EX30 positions itself as a premium electric crossover SUV. Volvo offers multiple EX30 trim levels, each with a different battery size and range estimate. The base model offers 214 miles of range, while the extended range version boasts up to 298 miles on a single charge. That extended range allows confident long-distance road tripping. As a new model, EX30 tax credit eligibility is still unconfirmed but likely.
Driving Range and Battery Tech
Driving range is a top priority for EV buyers. The further you can drive between charges, the more convenient and usable the electric car.
The Chevy Bolt EV has an EPA-estimated 259 miles of range. For comparison, that edges out the 2023 Nissan Leaf Plus range of 215 miles. So among affordable EV hatchbacks, the Bolt leads for range.
Real-world range depends on your driving style and conditions. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds deplete range quicker. Cold winter weather also cuts range by up to 25%, an important consideration for buyers in northern climates. But cautious, energy-efficient driving in temperate conditions can achieve closer to the EPA estimate.
The Volvo EX30 lineup offers two battery options:
- Standard range: This base battery option offers an estimated 214 miles of range, just shy of the Chevy Bolt. It uses a less resource-intensive Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry focused on sustainability. But range takes a small hit.
- Extended range: The upgraded battery pack utilizes Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery cells with higher energy density. That nets an estimated 282 to 298 miles on a single charge, outdistancing both the standard EX30 and Chevy Bolt range. This battery matches what you’d find in more expensive EVs from Tesla or Lucid.
In real-world driving, owners may achieve 230+ miles with the extended range option, allowing for confident long distance road trips between charging sessions.
The Volvo EX30 extended range handily surpasses the Bolt for maximum distance while standard range models tie in closer contention. For buyers focused purely on range, the upgraded EX30 wins out. But keep costs in mind, as extended batteries raise purchase prices substantially.
Performance, Handling and Drivetrain
While range defines an EV’s basic usability, performance and handling make day-to-day driving more exciting. Peppy acceleration and composed cornering transform mundane commutes into an experience to savor.
The Chevy Bolt EV accelerates briskly thanks to robust torque from its electric motor. Its 200 horsepower motor produces 266 lb-ft torque, allowing a 0-60 mph time of just 6.5 seconds. Chevy tunes the traction control system to allow for performance while maintaining control. Handling leans more toward comfort than all-out agility, but it remains pleasing to drive.
As a front-wheel drive (FWD) EV with a single front motor, the Bolt is simpler and more efficient. Power goes straight from the electric motor to the front wheels. Regenerative braking helps recapture energy while a low center of gravity produced by the underfloor battery placement gives the Bolt a planted feel. A one-speed direct drive transmission further boosts efficiency while yielding smooth acceleration.
The Volvo EX30 brings more choice to the table depending on your priorities and budget. At launch, Volvo will offer two powertrain options:
- Single motor FWD: Much like the Chevy Bolt, the standard EX30 features a front-mounted electric motor powering the front wheels only. Output specs are not yet available but this model favors efficiency over performance. Expect brisk but not blistering acceleration for confident merging and passing. Handling balance trends toward understeer typical of an FWD vehicle. This model positions itself against mainstream affordable EVs like the Bolt, Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
- Twin motor AWD: Performance enthusiasts will gravitate toward the twin-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model. With a motor powering both the front and rear axles, it can put down all that power more effectively for faster acceleration while also improving handling balance. This layout better manages the vehicle‘s weight for flatter cornering with less body roll. Volvo estimates this version does 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds while churning out 402+ hp and 486 lb-ft torque. Expect a firmly tuned, aggressively nimble suspension and steering setup catered to driving excitement. The twin-motor AWD EX30 clearly targets premium alternatives like the Tesla Model Y.
AWD improves foul weather traction as an added bonus over FWD rivals. But the tradeoff for that power and traction is reduced range and efficiency versus a single motor.
In summary, the Chevy Bolt EV provides pleasing daily driving performance combining efficiency and zippy acceleration for merging and passing. But performance hungry buyers who relish responsiveness and driver engagement above all need to upgrade to the high-output Volvo EX30 twin-motor AWD.
Interior Space and Practicality
As with any vehicle purchase, balancing excitement with practical priorities determines long term satisfaction. You may adore a coupe or roadster in the showroom, but regret missing space for family and activities weeks after purchase.
The Chevy Bolt EV‘s tall hatchback bodystyle pays practicality dividends. With all seats upright, 19.2 cubic feet of cargo volume swallow small furniture runs and bulk grocery trips. Fold the split folding rear seat and space balloons to 56.6 cubes to fit mountain bikes, camping gear and other sizable items. Small item storage is generous as well, with abundant cup holders, door pockets and a storage bay under the shift lever.
Passenger space favors legroom over headroom, an artifact of the battery pack living underfoot. But compared with compact internal combustion rivals, the Bolt feels similar, if slightly tighter.
Overall the Bolt strikes a pleasing balance blending utility, passenger space and a reasonable footprint for urban parking. Families make this hatchback work as their sole vehicle, though cost sensitive buyers are more likely to relegate it to commuting and local errands.
Early information suggests the Volvo EX30 also skews practical. As a crossover utility vehicle, the EX30 starts from a higher baseline for cargo flexibility than the lower Bolt hatchback. Boxy proportions open up the Storage and passenger compartment versus a swoopy coupe shape. Volvo quotes 15.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. Folded down, that space opens up to ~57 cubic feet by estimates, nearly matching the Bolt.
The EX30‘s taller, boxier orientation does exact a slight toll on driving dynamics versus the sleeker Bolt. But for growing families with active lifestyles, the added utility should offset any handling deficit while maintaining a lower center of gravity than gas-powered crossovers.
Expect similar passenger dimensions between the two EVs as well—cozy for six footers up front, sufficient leg room in back. And with Volvo’s Scandinavian design ethos emphasizing minimalism, storage for phones, cups and other small items should prove generous.
For maximum utility the Volvo EX30 holds a slight edge. But Bolt owners who frequently haul bulky items will have few complaints thanks to clever packaging. Call it a split decision based on your priorities for maximum cargo versus driving pleasure.
Tech, Entertainment and Connectivity
With consumers more reliant than ever on infotainment features to manage travel and entertainment needs, comparing the tech is mandatory. Does basic Bluetooth calling and audio streaming suffice? Or do built-in apps, gaming and web access rank higher on feature wish lists?
The base Chevy Bolt EV comes standard with an easy-to-use 10.2-inch touchscreen interfacing with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The clean, familiar interface makes accessing music streaming apps like Spotify intuitive while supporting Waze, Google Maps and more for navigation.
Upgraded trims expand connectivity via built-in apps like Alexa and XM satellite radio. Qi wireless charging keeps phones topped off and a six-speaker Bose audio system brings premium sound. 4G LTE WiFi hotspot functionality turns the Bolt into a rolling internet hub for tablets and laptops. Multiple USB ports ensure all passengers stay fully charged.
New for 2023, Chevy expands driver assistance tech availability to more trims. Now all Bolt models add automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist to help mitigate crashes from distracted driving while available adaptive cruise control reduces cognitive load. A surround view camera and rear camera mirror keep tight spots from turning ugly.
Though not bleeding edge, Chevy configures intuitive infotainment with up-to-date driver assistance to deliver a satisfying tech experience without intimidation, meeting most buyer needs.
As a new entry, Volvo aims to distinguish the EX30 through cutting-edge connectivity and an immersive user interface. Volvo already leads for Google infotainment integration, bringing embedded Google apps and services into its latest models. Expect the EX30 to retain that focus, incorporating Google Maps, voice commands and automotive apps into an interface familiar to Android users.
Over the air updates promise to continuously upgrade EX30 software and functionality without a trip to the dealership. And an open API allows third party app integration down the line. Think potential integration with smart home controls or mobile gaming apps via the EX30’s interface.
On the safety front, Volvo already promises class-leading advanced driver assistance like auto emergency braking and pilot assist lane centering. And the EX30’s taller ride height improves visibility and obstacle detection versus lower sedans and hatchbacks. Expect EX30 concept styling features like autonomous emergency corridors to make production as well, routing the EV off the road during a medical episode.
While Chevy delivers satisfying infotainment with the Bolt EV, early EX30 indications point to a more cutting-edge, future-forward interface and deeper integration. Give the tech win to Volvo assuming promises hold up on production models.
Charging Considerations
Home and public charging accessibility shape overall EV ownership experiences just as much range and performance. Lack of home charging lengthens charging sessions while missing infrastructure on road trips quickly sours perceptions.
The Chevy Bolt EV sports a relatively modest 65 kWh battery compared to over 100 kWh battery packs seen in premium Teslas and Lucids. So while the range trails luxury rivals, the battery charges faster on Level 2 and DC fast charging.
Via a 7.2 kW Level 2 charger, the Bolt battery recharges completely in under 10 hours. That equates to around 25 miles of added range per hour. A 32 amp installation recharges even faster while staying within what most homes can support. This makes overnight charging highly convenient for waking up to a “full tank” daily.
For public charging, the Bolt accepts up to 55 kW on DC fast charging, with a 0-80% charge achievable in under an hour. While not category leading, Bolt charging still proves sufficiently speedy for road trip stops.
Volvo EX30 charging capability remains partly under wraps until production model debuts. However the standard range model’s ~55 kWh LFP battery should charge at Level 2 speeds comparable to the Bolt. The larger capacity extended range battery spec is still to come.
We do know Volvo promises to optimize charging speed over battery preservation more than some luxury competitors. So expect charging times to compete with classes above despite cheaper pricing. Volvo also offers comprehensive charging services like home installation coordination for simplified transition to EV ownership. Over the air updates promise to improve functionality down the line as well.
The Chevy Bolt EV delivers satisfactory charging performance for blending commuting and road trips usefully. And Volvo appears on track to deliver comparable or slightly better charging provisions factoring the full ownership experience. Even so, neither model leapfrogs segment leaders like a Tesla Model 3 or Kia EV6 in raw charging times.
Safety
Safety ranks among any car shopper’s top purchase considerations for protecting their investment and peace of mind. And electric vehicles generally excel in crash protection compared to internal combustion counterparts. Lower center of gravity battery positioning stabilize handling while long front crumple zones absorb kinetic energy.
The Chevy Bolt EV performed well in government and insurance industry crash testing since its launch. A five star overall rating from NHTSA along with “Top Safety Pick” status from the IIHS reflects crashworthiness on par with top conventional compacts. 10 standard airbags protect occupants in a collision while antilock brakes, automatic emergency braking and other assists help the Bolt EV avoid crashes altogether. Stability control and motor calibration allow confident emergency maneuvers as well.
Volvo meanwhile hangs its entire brand identity on safety, tracing back decades before sustainability became trendy. Range aside, expect safety to define and justify the higher Volvo EX30 pricing over a Bolt.
Thus far, we only have Volvo’s concept EX30 safety demos from which to set expectations. But if the production version retains even half of those features, the EX30 will establish new safety standards in its price range.
Showcased safety concepts include exterior airbags to cushion pedestrians on impact, automotive grade lidar and cameras enabling precise obstacle detection, vehicle-to-vehicle communication helping avoid multi-crash pileups and an autonomous emergency stop system safely routing itself off the road when sensing a driver medical emergency or distraction. Survivability basics seem well covered too with enough front crush space for a Mack truck.
While the Chevy Bolt provides satisfactory occupant protection, Volvo’s concept EX30 demos indicate safety will remain a primary selling point now and into an electrified future. Expect 5 star crash ratings and class-leading avoidance systems once testing commences.
Cost Considerations
For the majority of shoppers, purchase price weighs heavily in any vehicle transaction. And both EVs qualify for tax credits defraying costs over internal combustion alternatives.
The Chevy Bolt EV starts from an MSRP of $26,595 plus destination fees. Even before incentives that matches smaller gasoline hatchbacks and undercuts midsize crossovers significantly. Well equipped LT and Premier trims push pricing closer to $30,000. Production timing provides buyers a $7,500 federal tax credit, along with state incentives in many areas. That tax credit alone closes the pricing gap to economy car territory while offering Tesla range at Toyota Corolla money.
Despite inflationary pressures, Chevy has kept 2023 Bolt pricing in check versus outgoing years recognizing budget limitations among early EV adopters. For cost-sensitive shoppers or those making the transition from aging gas cars, value positioning gives Chevy a leg up.
The upcoming Volvo EX30 starts around $10,000 north of the cheapest Bolt EV when including estimated delivery fees. So on the surface, Volvo’s new EV carries a hearty price premium over its Bowtie rival. Justifying that sticker jump requires superior execution on the attributes outlined above like range, performance and charging.
But remember Volvo still targets mainstream volume sales with the EX30, not low production luxury territory. Comparing the electric XC40 Recharge crossover pricing provides a more useful ballpark until Volvo finalizes EX30 spec and options. There the Recharge Pure Electric starts at $56,395 delivered, versus a Bolt EV Premier ringing up around $38,000.
That said, Volvo continues working to optimize pricing through common battery packs between vehicles and building off mature gas platforms. So while the EX30 will cost considerably more than a Chevy Bolt EV, expect meaningful savings versus other luxury EVs.
Federal tax credits provide another wild card between the two EVs. Chevy clearly qualifies for the full $7,500 maximum credit today while Volvo’s eligibility remains unconfirmed. Regulations generally favor domestically sourced battery materials which may prove problematic importing from Europe. Still, some level of subsidy appears likely considering political environmental priorities. Factor available incentives when comparing transaction prices.
Verdict: 2023 Chevy Bolt EV vs Volvo EX30
The 2023 Chevy Bolt EV and upcoming Volvo EX30 represent two unique visions blending sustainability and appealing utility. As more affordable EVs, both primarily target mainstream buyers rather than luxury status seekers. Shared priorities like family friendliness and road trip readiness reflect that mass market mission.
But the two EVs take notably different paths to reach those goals. The Chevy Bolt remains one of the best affordable EVs balancing purchase price, ownership costs and daily livability. Relatively compact dimensions promote maneuverability while ample cargo room swallows everyday tasks. All while providing over 250 miles of driving range and surpassing internal combustion rivals for tech features. An unexciting but agreeable driving experience favors comfort over corner carving. For an optimal balance favoring value and usability over emotion, the reliable Chevy Bolt EV hits the EV sweet spot.
Meanwhile the Volvo EX30 leans more upscale while widening configuration options. The standard single motor FWD model seemingly targets a similar audience to the Bolt judging from output and range estimates. Yet superior design, brand prestige and the latest Scandinavian styling should sway style-focused buyers at a moderate premium.
But performance crossover shoppers coveting both sustainability and driving exhilaration need only consider the high output twin motor AWD version. With supercar-rivaling acceleration, confident handling and standout traction, this top EX30 trim redefines expectations of practical EVs. Cutting-edge connectivity, autonomous emergency capability and long distance range certify the Volvo as an EV home run, albeit for over $15,000 more than a base Bolt EV once equipped similarly.
So while the Chevy Bolt likely retains its reign as the value EV champion, Volvo looks to set new benchmarks for technology, safety and performance in the compact crossover segment. The model providing the optimal blend for you comes down to budget and priorities. Seek a smart EV deal prioritizing efficiency and functionality at reasonable cost? Stick with the Chevy Bolt EV. Want a technology statement ushering in the automotive future while stoking driving passion? The forthcoming Volvo EX30 beckons. Either way, the future of electric mobility looks particularly bright.
