What Will Replace the Chevy Volt as a Everyday Electric Car?
General Motors (GM) recently announced that the Chevrolet Volt will be discontinued in the future. So, you might be wondering, what will replace it as an electric car for everyday driving needs? Let’s explore the options and see which one best fits your needs.
General Motors' Decision to Discontinue the Chevy Volt
The Chevrolet Volt was an experimental car that GM lost money on. They decided to move on to better and more advanced technology. Instead of the Volt, GM is now producing several other electric vehicles (EVs) that are expected to capture the market soon.
One of the key EVs from GM is the Chevrolet Bolt, which offers a reasonable price point with a range of 250 miles. Additionally, GM is set to release several other EV models, including the Blazer and Equinox in 2024 alongside the Silverado EV truck. The company is also in the process of developing additional EV versions of popular models such as the Corvette and Camaro.
Other EV Options on the Market
Toyota and Nissan are both known for their electric vehicles but have faced challenges with recalls. Toyota’s BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) has been recalled twice – once due to wheels falling off and another due to range degradation in cold weather. Nissan’s Leaf has also faced criticism, with sales lagging behind expectations over the past decade.
However, other brands like Kia and Hyundai have been producing well-regarded EVs. These vehicles offer a better range and performance, making them more appealing to consumers.
Used Volt as an Alternative
While GM is discontinuing the Volt, many recommend considering a used model. For example, a 2017 Volt with 14.5K miles on it might be a great alternative. It was up for auction after coming off lease and was clearly not driven much. It offers better features, including CarPlay, and is less expensive than a Tesla Model 3. However, it is also true that some people have experienced issues with their Volt, leading to it being bought back by GM.
The Tesla Model 3 as the Best Option
The Tesla Model 3 is currently the best option for those looking for an efficient and reliable electric car. It offers a long-range and easy-to-use Supercharger network. The Tesla Model S, Model X, and the upcoming standard version (expected in late 2019) have significantly reduced the range anxiety that previous electric cars faced.
The Supercharger network is almost everywhere, and charging times have been optimized. Typically, it takes about 15-20 minutes to top up while on the road. This is comparable to the time it takes to refuel a conventional car for a short break. For those who doubt the viability of electric cars, tools like Better RoutePlanner can simulate trips and compare them to Google Maps, highlighting the convenience of electric cars on long road trips.
While there are some areas in the US and Canada that are not covered by Tesla Superchargers (like I94 through North Dakota), the vast majority of potential buyers can find Tesla’s network to be sufficient.
Electric cars like the Tesla Model 3 require very little maintenance other than battery checks, wiper fluid, and tire changes. The core components, such as the battery and electric motor, are designed to last, making them a robust choice for everyday use.
In conclusion, while there are several options for electric car buyers, the Tesla Model 3 stands out as the best choice for those seeking a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective electric vehicle for everyday driving needs. Whether you opt for a new Tesla Model 3 or a used Volt, the future of electric cars is bright and promising.