By now, you’ve probably heard the buzz about the all-new 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV, or what many are calling the Bolt EV plus or the Bolt EV’s bigger sibling. Designed on the same platform as the popular Bolt EV, Chevy promises the Bolt EUV will not only be bigger but will also offer more advanced technology that will give new meaning to “driving into the future.” That’s right, tech buffs and gadget gurus, the 2022 Bolt EUV will be the first Chevy to offer Super Cruise, which is the first true hands-free driving assistance tool on the market. But how exactly does a feature like Super Cruise work, and will the Bolt EUV really drive itself?
Self-Driving or Not? That’s the Question
While Super Cruise is new to the Chevy lineup, it isn’t new to GM after the automaker debuted the technology on its luxury Cadillac brand on the 2017 CT6. Fortunately, Cadillac drivers won’t be the only ones to enjoy this true hands-free driving system as it finds a new home on the 2022 Bolt EUV. This certainly seems fitting since the Bolt EUV is oozing with innovative tech. But what does Chevy mean when it says Super Cruise is a true hands-free driving system?
Super Cruise isn’t a “set it and forget it” type of deal where you can jump into the driver’s seat, activate Super Cruise, and let the technology do the rest. There is no vehicle on the market where this is possible, at least not yet. Instead, most vehicles offer advanced driver assistance systems that semi-automate the driving process. To further prove this point, the Society of Automotive Engineers categorizes this technology into five levels beginning with Level 0 vehicles that offer none of this technology to Level 5 vehicles that are so futuristic that they aren’t equipped with a steering wheel, an accelerator pedal, or a brake pedal. Today, most vehicles fall at a Level 2 even when equipped with Super Cruise.
Giving a New Meaning to “Cruising”
Super Cruise may not enable the Bolt EUV to drive itself from start to finish, but it will certainly make cruising easier. Super Cruise is designed so that drivers can keep their eyes on the road and their hands off the wheel, which explains why it’s marketed as the first true hands-free driving experience in the industry. So, how does it work?
The Bolt EUV is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control as well as Chevy’s Safety Assist suite of advanced driver-assist and safety features. This is vital since Super Cruise works in conjunction with Adaptive Cruise Control, which adjusts the Bolt EUV’s speed according to the flow of traffic ahead. But while Adaptive Cruise Control can be used anywhere and still requires that you keep your hands on the wheel, Super Cruise uses precision LiDAR map data to navigate over 200,000 miles of compatible roads throughout the United States and Canada. The map data reports every curve in the road to fully engage the Super Cruise feature and give you the confidence to take your hands off the wheel.
However, engaging Super Cruise on a compatible road doesn’t mean you’re free to take a nap. In order to make sure you are still engaged, there is a Driver Attention System that utilizes a small camera located at the top of the steering column. The system uses infrared lights to monitor where you’re looking when Super Cruise is activated. Remember, eyes on the road at all times. If you look away from the road for too long, the Driver Attention System uses a green light bar at the top of the steering wheel to alert you. When this inattentiveness occurs frequently, the system uses both visual and audible alerts to get your attention to refocus your eyes on the road and place your hands on the steering wheel.
Cruising Into the Future
The 2021 Cadillac lineup offers an enhanced version of Super Cruise that features Lane Change on Demand. This technology allows the vehicle to change lanes hands-free when Super Cruise is activated. Once you activate the turn signal, Super Cruise will look for an opening in the desired lane and make the change when it’s safe. Throughout the process, the system alerts you using the Cadillac’s gauge cluster with notifications like “changing lanes” or “looking for an opening.” If changing lanes is not safe, the system will notify you so you can manually complete the lane change.
While this technology certainly seems fitting for a futuristic vehicle like the 2022 Bolt EUV, enhanced Super Cruise isn’t yet available on Chevy’s all-electric SUV. However, this doesn’t mean that it won’t be added in the future as the Bolt EUV upgrades its electronics to manage more advanced features like Lane Change on Demand. Until then, there are plenty of other perks that you can enjoy on the Bolt EUV.
These perks include an impressive 250-mile range that’s enhanced by features like Regen on Demand and One Pedal Driving, as well as the Dual Level Charge Cord that makes it easy for Bolt EUV drivers to use 120-volt or 240-volt outlets to charge the SUV using an interchangeable plug. Regen on Demand is ideal for restoring energy on the go by using regenerative braking and is easily activated by holding a paddle on the steering wheel. One Pedal Driving combines the function of the accelerator and brake pedals to capture even more energy, making driving more convenient and allowing the Bolt EUV to go further on a single charge.
When it comes to technology, the Bolt EUV has no shortage of innovative features, from Sport Mode to tools like an available rearview camera that gives you a clear view behind the vehicle with the touch of a button. The Bolt EUV also offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as well as a wireless charging station that ensures the cabin remains free of clutter and that you’re always connected to the outside world. Because of this, the Bolt EUV’s front seat feels like a look into the future, and that’s certainly a good thing.
Are You Ready to Cruise?
How does Super Cruise sound to you? Are you ready to cruise your way into the all-new 2022 Bolt EUV? While technology like Super Cruise and electric vehicles in general typically have a reputation for costing a small fortune, Chevy manages to avoid this trap and has made the Bolt EUV incredibly affordable and a realistic option for drivers looking to drive into the future in an electric SUV. But what exactly do we mean by affordable?
The Bolt EUV is available in three trims starting with the LT at $33,995. The LT base model is equipped with the Chevy Safety Assist suite standard as well as the entire collection of wireless capability from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to device charging. It also offers a convenient Dual Level Charging Cord. The next level is the Premier, which starts at $38,495, and adds a few luxury touches, such as leather seats, Adaptive Cruise Control, a Rear Camera Mirror, and HD Surround Vision. The model also allows you to add the Super Cruise feature as an option. Last in the lineup is the special Launch Edition, which starts at $43,495, offers a distinctive exterior, and is equipped with Super Cruise as well as a panoramic sunroof.
These trims give you everything you need and more to drive into the future in style without breaking the bank. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your future behind the wheel of the 2022 Bolt EUV today!
