General Motors Company recently made an announcement concerning its new pure electric vehicle that will boast a range of more than 200 miles. The new car will be marketed across the U.S and will be referred to as Bolt EV. According to an emailed statement by the company, the name Bolt EV has quickly been linked to Chevrolet since being unveiled three months ago. Therefore, when the vehicle goes into production, the name will be used. By unveiling the Bolt EV, Chevrolet has shown its commitment and strides towards electrification. The name is also well suited for this electric vehicle that is game-changing and made for attainability rather than exclusivity. Criticisms had been raised with respect to the name being closely related to Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid car by Chevy.

The Bolt concept was first shown by GM at the Detroit’s North American International Auto Show in January and at the Chicago Auto Show a month later. In Chicago, GM made a confirmation of building a five-passenger car in Orion Township at the carmaker’s Orion Assembly plant. According to Michael Albano, Chevrolet spokesman, the final decision to use the name Bolt EV was made by GM about a month ago. In an email, Albano said that the confirmation was reached following consultation with dealers and customers. Most of the customers felt that the name was suitable and its connection to the Volt was viewed positively. Alan Batey, the GM present in North America said in February that the automaker was still debating on whether to or not to go with the name Bolt. He further added that GM may not come up with the decision this year. This is because some people claimed that the name was confusing.

GM and Chevrolet officials have not yet given the exact production date for the vehicle. The only information given is that the vehicle is on “fast track production.” An industry forecasting and analysis firm, LMC Automotive, projects the Bolt to be built later next year and enter the market in 2017. GM produces a high of 20,000 and a low of 30,000 vehicles on an annual basis. The new Bolt will serve as a replacement for the Chevy Spark EV and will have double the range. It has been estimated to cost around 30,000 dollars following a federal tax credit of 7,500 dollars. According to GM, 160-million dollars will be invested in purchasing the equipment and tools needed for manufacturing the future vehicles.