Tesla could face competition from General Motors going forward, as the latter is gearing up to launch an all-electric car at the Detroit Auto Show on Monday, says a report from USA Today. The said car, the Chevrolet Bolt has a range of 200 miles, which is a concerning factor for Tesla. According to reports, the Bolt could be launched by 2017.
An all-electric car from GM
Just like Tesla’s Model S, the Bolt will be a pure electric car, unlike the Volt, which, according to General Motors, was “an extended-range electric” having a backup gas engine. During the North American International Auto Show, the second-generation 2016 Volt will also make its debut.
The auto company is planning to price the Bolt somewhere between $30,000 and $35,000 after incentives, including a $7,500 federal tax credit, says a report from The Wall Street Journal citing unnamed sources. Tesla is also planning to debut its mass market Model 3 at the same price point. However, it will not be launched in the next two years.
Compared to the Volt, the Bolt is a bigger car, but it has similar hatchback body style. Fitted with LG Chem-made batteries, the car has a range of 200 miles on a single charge. The Bolt’s powertrain will be similar to that of the Spark EV that is sold in California and Oregon.
General Motors said that, as of now, it will not likely say anything on its future products.
Taking inspiration from Tesla
General Motors has taken a number of initiatives to bring out the Bolt, including the $240 million investment by CEO Mary Barra in October to expand the company’s Warren transmission plant to make the drive train for the new Volt.
Tesla car maker has jolted the auto industry by melding a long range with suave looks into one car, unlike other electric cars on the market. As of now, there is only one Tesla car available, and it is grabbing all the attention. The entry level is priced around $80,000.
General Motors did not take on Tesla as its competitor, but rather, took inspiration from this electric car company and taking lessons from the whole process. In 2013, GM executives said they are in the process of designing a 200-mile range vehicle but did not reveal any time frame.
