If GM wants to play seriously in the compact EV segment, Opel and Vauxhall versions of the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt are nearly certain to appear in Europe.
Right now, BMW owns the class with the i3. The German EV is a commercial success not only because it's no true rivals, however, also due to its modern styling inside and out, practicality, efficiency and full arsenal of modern tech.
Being a premium product, it doesn't come cheap. The Bolt, on the other hand, has a price tag of around $30,000, after the federal tax credit, which is not bad for an all-electric car with a range exceeding 200 miles (321 km) on a full charge.
Of course, since we've yet to see the product, we can't comment on GM's pricing strategy in Europe. We can, however, point out some of the Bolt's features like the 10.2" MyLink touch-screen display, Surround Vision tech, EV Navigation Mapping and the Gamification, where Bolt owners will be able to compare their driving styles among themselves and see who's the most efficient driver. A gimmick? That's debatable, however, we'll have to see if it becomes popular with Bolt owners.
Rendering courtesy of Theophilus Chin