GM Exec Slams Tesla Model 3: 'I Am Very Proud Of The Chevrolet Bolt That's Coming Out'

Apr 14, 2016 07:48 AM EDT | Carl

On Wednesday, a General Motors executive expressed his confidence at the Chevrolet Bolt, the highly-anticipated rival of the Tesla Model 3.

Dan Nicholson, GM's vice president of global propulsion systems, spoke at the SAE World Congress, "I am very proud of the Chevrolet Bolt that's coming out, which will be the first to market as a long-range affordable battery electric vehicle."

The exec's comment sprung days after the hyped Tesla Model 3 was up for reservation grabs, the Detroit Free Press reported. At least 325,000 refundable preorders had been accepted, the outlet said, for $1,000.

'Your $1,000 is Unnecessary'

Speaking for the Chevrolet Bolt, Nicholson argued that plopping a thousand dollars is unnecessary. "It [Bolt] will have more than 200 miles of range and it will be in production by the end of 2016, so it's not necessary to put down $1,000 and wait until 2018 or some time after that."

The Tesla Model 3 is set to sell at $35,000, while the Chevrolet Bolt is priced higher at $37,000, according to the Detroit Free Press.

What the Bolt Promises

As told by Slash Gear, the Chevrolet Bolt's pre-production kicked off in March. Branded all-electric and all-efficient, the vehicle is said to be designed from the inside out, having "perfectly sculpted proportions and distinctive technology." It features a 240-volt charging unit, touted to be as simple as charging a cell phone.

Power lies in the nickel-rich, lithium-ion battery of the Chevrolet Bolt, designed to enhance heat resistance. It comes with a liquid cooling system which adapts to environmental climate.

Meanwhile, the 10.2-inch diagonal center display screen and 8-inch diagonal driver cluster provide timely information on battery levels, range estimation, charge settings and climate controls. Featuring split-screen and expanded viewing, the interactive display is controlled by intuitive gestures, all for convenience.

Nicholson sees no problem with GM's balance sheet. These and more support Nicholson's confidence in the expected market showdown.

Which car excites you more? Sound off in the comments section.

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