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      in Electric Cars

      India-Made Pravaig Extinction Mk1 Electric Car Debut Next Month

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      Pravaig Extinction Electric Car
      The Pravaig Extinction Mk1 will be revealed later this year with launch sometime in late 2021

      In global markets, while Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle segment with models such as Model 3, Model S, Model X and Roadster, electric vehicle technology in India is still in its nascent stage. However, automakers such as Hyundai, MG and Tata Motors have the Kona, ZS EV and Nexon EV respectively in this segment and several other electric cars are being tested. Even as these mainstream automakers make their entry into the electric vehicle segment, there are also some startups making inroads into this cleaner and greener electric vehicle space.
      Pravaig Extinction Mk1 features
      Earlier this year, Bangalore-based mobility startup Pravaig Dynamics had revealed details of the new electric car called Pravaig Extinction Mk1 which the company expects to put on the global map. It is an electric car which is set for a reveal next month, and launch date scheduled for sometime in 2021.

      Extinction Mk1 sports a two door coupe design with a swooping roof line while in its production stance it will come in as a 4 door electric sedan. It will receive a low slung profile, projector LED headlamps, well designed front bumper and sleek LED strips connecting both headlamps with a similar LED bar connecting the tail lamps as well with side indicators on fenders.
      The electric car will also see ‘Pravaig’ lettering on the rear and will ride on multi spoke alloy wheels. It will also come in with disc brakes at the front and rear while multiple drive modes. Regenerative braking and smartphone connectivity would also be among its features.

      Pravaig Extinction Mk1 504km range planned
      As per the company’s website, Pravaig Extinction Mk1 could draw its power via a 96 kWh li-ion battery pack. It will generate output of little over 200 hp and will have a top speed of 196 km/h and an electric range up to 504 km. This range, if proved correct at the time of launch will make it the longest range electric car in the Indian market.
      It will also come in with fast charging facility with up to 80 percent charge in 30 minutes. The company could also introduce Mk1 in a range of variants with varying battery packs offering different levels of performance.

      Launch Date, Pricing & Availability
      No fixed date of launch has been revealed though a late 2021 launch is what is estimated. Pravaig Extinction Mk1 has a sales projection of 250 units per year and will be sold in Delhi and Bangalore for a start. It will then be extended for sale in cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad. No prices have been announced as on date as the company is looking at a leasing model.
      As is seen with other automakers, Pravaig Dynamics does not plan to set up any dealership or showroom but will instead offer the Extinction Mk1 via the online platform with service stations planned in metro cities. More

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      in Bike

      2021 Honda Scoopy 110cc Scooter Unveiled – Delivers 59 kmpl Mileage

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      2021 Honda Scoopy
      2021 Honda Scoopy new generation scooter makes global debut – Has been launched in Indonesia

      One of the popular scooters in Indonesia, Honda Scoopy has sold more than 4.5 million units since the time it was launched in the country in 2010. Honda has now launched the next-gen model that comes with a range of cosmetic upgrades and new features. It is available at a starting price of IDR 19.95 million, approximately INR 1.05 lakh.
      Design and features
      2021 Honda Scoopy is a lot more attractive in comparison to its predecessor. It has been designed in accordance with the styling needs of the fashion conscious young generation. A range of visual enhancements have been incorporated such as the oval shaped headlamp and tail lamp and splashier rear indicators. The new headlamp is also functionally relevant, as it comes with LED projector lighting system.

      Next-gen Honda Scoopy is being offered in four variants, Sporty, Fashion, Stylish and Prestige. Each variant has its unique colour options such as Prestige white and black, Stylish brown and red, Fashion blue and cream and Sporty red and black.
      Talking about comfort and convenience, new Scoopy gets a large 15.4 litre utility storage space beneath the seat. A USB charger has been added to the console box, allowing users to charge their mobile devices without the need for an additional adapter. Other key features include multi-function hook at the front and side stand indicator.
      [embedded content]
      In terms of safety & security, new Scoopy has been equipped with smart keys that offer answer back feature and anti-theft alarm. It also gets tubeless tyres and brake lock lever.
      Scoopy engine
      Powering Honda Scoopy is latest generation 110 cc, SOHC, programmed fuel injection engine that is capable of delivering 9 PS of max power at 7,500 rpm and 9.3 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm. It comes with eSP (enhanced Smart Power), which not only boosts performance but also improves fuel efficiency. The scooter also gets ACG starter, which ensures smooth engine starts without the usual spluttering sound.

      Another great feature is the advanced Idling Stop System (ISS) that turns the engine off when it is idle for more than 3 seconds. To restart, the user just needs to rev the accelerator. New Scoopy comes with a larger fuel tank that can hold 4.2 litres. As per EURO 3 testing standards, new Scoopy can travel 59 km per litre when used with ISS.
      The scooter’s improved performance is also made possible with the new eSAF frame. The new frame offers multiple benefits such as better ergonomics, improved agility to tackle city traffic and lightweight for enhanced fuel efficiency.

      It is not certain if Scoopy will be launched in the Indian market. Honda already has the top selling Activa in its portfolio, so, there’s limited possibility. More

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      in Bike

      BattRE Electric Vehicle Charging Solution – Can Be Installed By Anyone, Anywhere

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      BattRE Electric Scooter
      Set up a BattRE charging station at your home, office, or shop

      With the Indian EV market seeing more and more product launches in recent years, now more than ever before, there needs to be an expedient discussion on having a robust EV infrastructure network. Manufacturers are already working on creating such grids, and focus is on ensuring that all vehicles can be charged at such places.
      As more and more people turn to EVs, the need for these infrastructure networks to be superbly smart will become the need of the hour. For instance, users will need to turn to an app to figure out where they can find a free TV station to charge their vehicles on the go. Because the process takes a certain amount of time, charging the vehicle partially and quickly will become a focus area.
      EV charging station infra
      Brand BattRE retails a range of electric scooters in the market. Its latest development revolves around growing it’s charging station network. Touted to be a low-cost charging solution for EVs, it’s charging solution is now being monetised.
      BattRE EV charging solution
      As such, for those with the luxury of a secure and safe areas in their house that can be publicly accessed, setting up a charging station will be a new income source. This can be done outside of home, office, shop, plot of land, etc. Income generated will be directly transferred to listed bank account through UPI.
      The open charging network is for all EV users. The simple and streamlined process involves downloading BattRE app from playstore. Users would be able to locate the nearest charging station, and scan a QR code on the charger to begin charging. Payment process is based on suing an UPI. While the process doesn’t outline concerns regarding waiting time and charger availability, that process is most likely built in.
      Charging network monetisation
      Monestising the charging network will help generate enough interest cause it will allow people to provide leads on space available rather than the company scouting for available spaces, which is time consuming to say the least. And rather than the company having to explain the benefits of the system, making it an outright money making venture will already place it in good stead with potential customers.
      For the EV charging infra network to be a widespread and effective platform, there needs to be efficient government involvement and/or necessary private and public partnerships that will help make available such space.
      In the meantime, individual companies are doing what’s necessary to build a strong base for sustainable growth. Processes involved ensure a larger group of stakeholders and this bodes well in creating much needed chatter around the EV industry, which at present is a small one that’s registering growth. In general, a number of charging stations are free for use currently but these offers will not last a lifetime. More

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      in Motor News

      Will There Be an EV in Every Driveway under the Biden Administration?

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      Joe Biden’s progressive campaign promises prove he’s bullish on the power of EVs to make a difference in the fight against climate change, but having the right attitude won’t make them just happen.
      Giving the president-elect tailwinds are a slew of new electric vehicles (among them the GMC Hummer EV, above) due to go on sale during his first term, including a lot of pickup trucks that can shift the public image of EVs and a lot of EV production that is or will soon be happening in red states.
      As usual, cheap gas and a Senate potentially still controlled by Republicans means any plans Biden has will be tempered to some degree.
      The upcoming Biden Administration elicits unequal parts worry and excitement when it comes to electric vehicles and the future of the automobile industry. The excitement is there, in spades and with good reason, but there are worries from many corners as well.

      The EVs Are Coming

      Future EVs: Every Electric Vehicle Coming Soon

      Every Electric Pickup Truck on the Horizon

      Excitement over electric vehicles flows from the president-elect himself, who promoted two distinct EV policies in his campaign climate plan. First, his Day One “unprecedented executive actions” include moving the federal government procurement system toward 100 percent “clean energy and zero-emissions vehicles” as well as making sure U.S. fuel-economy standards are set so they get “100 percent of new sales for light- and medium-duty vehicles [to] be electrified” alongside annual improvements for heavy-duty vehicles.
      Second, Biden’s “Year One Legislative Agenda” is to include accelerating the deployment of electric vehicles by working with governors and mayors to deploy over 500,000 new public charging outlets by the end of 2030. The plan also calls for restoring the federal government’s electric-vehicle tax credit and targeting it toward middle-class consumers while prioritizing electric vehicles made in America when possible.

      2021 Rivian R1T.
      Rivian

      That’s what the president-elect has said himself. Industry sources who spoke to Car and Driver on background said once Biden is inaugurated, he could use the presidential bully pulpit to signal to Americans that the future belongs to EVs. He could also stop the fight with California over fuel-economy standards and get back to promoting one national standard.

      Biden to Work toward More EVs, Stable Car Industry

      What I’d Do Differently: Vice President Joe Biden

      It’s also the case that some of the names being suggested as members of a Biden cabinet are strong proponents of EVs, among them Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles, former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel, and Oregon Rep. Earl Blumenauer. The tea leaves are still too weak to read with precision, but it’s something to keep an eye on as Biden gets ready to be sworn in in January.
      There Are Going to Be Limits
      Of course, any worries that the Biden Administration is about to run roughshod over an automobile industry that’s had such success working with the oil industry for over a century are simply unfounded. Our sources pointed to two large roadblocks, including likely Republican control of the Senate, which will limit how far Biden can push his plans, and low gas prices. A $2 gallon of gas makes the economics of going electric less appealing than $4 gallons, but even in an era of relatively cheap gas, there might be some reasons for Republicans to work with Biden on EVs.
      Those reasons can be counted in four letters: jobs. Plug In America’s policy director, Katherine Stainken, pointed out to C/D that there is a relatively under-the-radar EV production boom happening in red states, citing the Cadillac Lyriq being built in Tennessee (where Volkswagen is expanding EV operations and Nissan has been building the Leaf for years), Tesla opening a plant in Texas to build the Cybertruck, SK Innovation’s $2.6 billion battery plant potentially coming to Georgia, and the Lordstown Motors plant in Ohio, along with Lucid and Nikola in Arizona.
      “There’s a lot of new manufacturing happening around the United States for electric vehicles, and we hope that will resonate with some of the Republican senators,” she said.

      Tesla Model 3 Gets Design Changes, Increased Range

      2019 Chevy Bolt EV vs. 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric

      2022 BMW iX

      Center for Automotive Research president and CEO Carla Bailo wrote that despite the excitement around EVs, she sees a downside for existing internal-combustion engine and transmission plants that will need to be managed during the transition. “We have several years before internal-combustion engines will be obsolete, and we should begin to prepare the workforce and plant management accordingly,” she wrote. With Biden, she said, “We will have someone in the White House committed to the resurrection of the Paris accords and improved air quality for the U.S. There will remain good checks and balances due to the situation in the House and Senate to move pragmatically.”
      Another source said senators who realize Biden has the power to put executive orders into place might be encouraged to find middle ground on some EV proposals to stop the administration from going too far left. Or not, if Republican Senate leader (for now, anyway) Mitch McConnell continues his drive to be seen as the “grim reaper” of progressive legislation.

      Ford E-Transit and Mustang Mach-E. 
      Ford

      Ford F-150 Electric prototype.

      Electric Trucks Could Change the Landscape
      There’s another factor that might override the political concerns. Government incentives alone can’t force people to buy EVs and small numbers of people buying EVs won’t have the climate impact Biden is talking about. Everything needs to work together, and it just might be time for everything to come together in the shape of America’s iconic pickup truck.

      Ford F-150 EV Prototype Pulls a Million-Pound Load

      Lordstown Endurance Beat F-150 in Video Tug of War

      No all-electric trucks are available today from any major automakers, but there will be a fair number released during Biden’s first term. This new generation of trucks is likely to simply outperform a lot of the gas or diesel pickups available now. Most of them will have onboard power, allowing users to plug in tools at a worksite or offer electricity while remote camping. Rivian says its R1T pickup truck will go through three feet of standing water, for example, and Ford has hyped the towing capability of its upcoming electric F-150, famously pulling a million-plus-pound train in a promotional video. These sorts of features might be what it takes to give EVs the boost they need, politics be damned.
      “There’s all this potential that we can’t even imagine right now when you’re driving a pickup in the middle of nowhere and you’re bringing power with you,” said Plug In America executive director Joel Levin. “Where will that lead? What kinds of creative things will people do?”
      We’re about to find out.

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      in Bike

      Benelli Leoncino 800, Trail Retro-Classic Motorcycles Unveiled

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      Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
      The Benelli Leoncino 800 twins are equipped with adjustable Marzocchi front suspension and Brembo braking system

      The middle weight retro-classic roadster segment seems to be in the vogue off late as indicated by steady inflow of new models. The Triumph Trident brought fresh energy to this segment which is currently dominated by the Ducati Scrambler family. Now, another Italian brand has joined the bandwagon with two new motorcycles.
      Benelli Leoncino 800 and Trail
      The Benelli Leoncino 800 and Leoncino 800 Trail roadsters have been unveiled to take advantage of the middle-weight boom. The road-focused Leoncino 800 adopts the nameplate’s traditional styling language with an exposed trellis frame, a slender fuel tank, a simple tailpiece and spoke wheels.
      Benelli Leoncino 800
      The oval LED headlamp with horse-shoe shaped DRL and LED blinkers attempt to bring a touch of modernity to an otherwise classic package. Of course, the front fender carries the nameplate’s quintessential lion mascot.
      The Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail on the other hand has a sportier appeal with additional bodywork. The scrambler gets high-mounted twin exhaust pipes which are protected by a silver panel that extends from the tailpiece, and a compact body colored headlamp fairing. While the Leoncino 800 employs road-friendly 17-inch wheels at either end, the Trail variant adopts a larger 19-inch unit up front. Both motorcycles are shod with dual-purpose tyres.

      Specifications
      The middle-weight Benelli Leoncino twins are powered by a 754 cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor which develops 76 hp and 68 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed unit which is connected to the motor by means of a slipper clutch.
      The trellis frame is equipped with Marzocchi upside down front forks with rebound, compression and preload adjustments. The monoshock rear suspension offers preload adjustment. The Trail has a longer front suspension travel of 5.5 inches compared to the regular variant’s 5.1 inches. The Trail variant also has a slightly higher saddle height.

      Braking system which comprises twin front discs and a single rear unit is from Brembo. In a nutshell, the made-in-China motorcycles which are designed in Italy, do no skimp on hardware. While detailed specifications are scarce, we expect the twins to be equipped with two-channel ABS as a standard fitment.
      Benelli is yet to reveal the prices of the Leoncino 800 family. We expect it to undercut the likes of Yamaha XSR700 by a considerable margin. Market launch is expected in the first half of 2021. There is always a sizable market for a well-priced middle weight motorcycle in India, so we expect the lions to make it to our shores soon after their international debut. More

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      in Bike

      2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark, Black Star, Scrambler Nightshift – Breaks Cover

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      2021 Ducati XDiavel Black Star
      The 2021 Ducati XDiavel receives an 8 hp power boost in addition to becoming Euro-5 compliant

      Ducati started its five-episode world premiere video series with a bang last week by world premiering the all-new Multistrada V4 adventure tourer. In its second episode, the Borgo Panigale establishment introduced a fleet of black themed motorcycles for the 2021 model year.
      2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark
      The 2021 Ducati XDiavel is available in two editions centering around the dark theme. Conforming to ‘Reduce to the Max‘ design philosophy, the 2021 XDiavel Dark adopts matte finish for the bodywork and mechanical components, resulting in a menacing power cruiser. The highlights include black anodized
      2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark
      It is not a purely cosmetic venture though. Ducati has tweaked the engine mapping and revised the exhaust system to make the XDiavel’s Testastretta DVT 1262 liquid-cooled motor compliant with Euro-5 emission norms. While at it, the engineers have managed to squeeze 8 hp more out of the motor which now has 160 hp on tap. However, the power bump is applicable only for the markets which impose Euro 5 norms.
      Feature highlights include LED headlight, TFT instrument console, adjustable suspension system, Brembo monoblock calipers at the front, Pirelli Diablo Rosso tyres, slipper clutch and so on.

      Ducati XDiavel Black Star
      The Black Star is inspired by the world of sportscars, says Ducati. The special edition motorcycle is swathed in matte black and grey livery with a dash of contrast red accent. Positioned above the XDiavel Dark, the XDiavel Black Star boasts additional features such as the lightweight forged and machined wheels, suede leather saddle and other features that are consistent with the existing S Trim including the Ducati Multimedia System.
      2021 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift
      In addition to introducing new colour themes for the Scrambler Desert Sled and Icon, Ducati also added a new Scrambler Nightshift variant to the mix. The latest member of the 803 variant features Aviator grey paint job in matte finish and a minimal roadster styling. The frame, engine and spoke wheels (18-inch front and 17-inch rear) are all finished in black. The meaty Pirelli MT60 dual-purpose rubbers significantly add to the motorcycle’s raw character.
      2021 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift
      There isn’t any noteworthy change to the features list. The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift continues to be equipped with LED instrument dial, dual-channel cornering ABS, LED DRLs, and so on. Ducati has 3 more episodes of its world premiere series to be aired, and we think, by the end of it, the entire portfolio will stand updated for the new, and hopefully better, year.
      2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled More

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      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Meteor 350 vs Honda CB350 – Speed Comparison Test

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      Image – Abhinav Bhatt
      Is the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 faster than the Honda CB350?

      In the 350 cc segment, there are several options to choose from. Apart from the obvious Classic 350, there’s Honda H’Ness CB350 and recently launched Meteor 350. The latter two is where things may get a bit difficult to decide, since both motorcycles offer superior performance and come with a long list of features.
      To help users make informed choices, YouTuber Abhinav Bhatt has uploaded a new video that details the real world performance difference between Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda CB350.
      Meteor 350 vs. Honda CB350 acceleration, speed test
      For this comparative analysis, Abhinav chose to ride the Meteor 350 and asked his colleague to ride the CB350. The primary idea was to test the performance of these motorcycles in 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th gear. The test was conducted on an open highway with limited traffic.
      In second gear, both bikers started accelerating from a speed of 20 kmph. It took Honda CB350 just a few seconds to race ahead of Meteor. The latter hit the speed limiter at 70-75 kmph, whereas CB350 achieved 80 kmph in second gear.
      [embedded content]
      In the next round, both motorcycles started at 30 kmph in third gear. For some distance, both bikes were neck and neck at a speed of around 80 kmph. CB350 eventually raced ahead of Meteor that maxed out at around 100 kmph in third gear. CB350 did 110 kmph in third gear.
      In fourth gear, both motorcycles started at 40 kmph. Now was the turn for Meteor to show its strength, as it raced ahead of CB350 almost effortlessly. However, the lead lasted for only a short distance, as CB350 eventually overtook Meteor. Apparently, CB350 has a higher top speed in 4th gear, which allowed it to overtake Meteor.
      In fifth gear, Meteor 350 emerged as a clear winner. Not only did it accelerate faster than CB350, it was also able to maintain a significant lead. After driving for quite a long distance, it was felt that CB350 couldn’t possibly catch up with Meteor in 5th gear.
      Ride experience summary
      According to Abhinav, he liked Meteor’s performance, especially in 4th and 5th gear. The level of acceleration and top speed would be very useful during long distance journeys. Honda CB350 trailed behind Meteor in 5th gear, which is probably due to its tall gear setup.
      As is evident from this video, specs may only be able to provide a basic idea about a motorcycle’s capabilities. Numbers do not necessarily determine how well a motorcycle will perform in the real world. This is especially true when we are comparing two products. When unsure, the best way to find out the better one that suits your needs is to take them out for a test ride. More

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      in Motor News

      50,000 Chevy Bolt EVs Recalled; Owners Told Not to Park in Garages, Near Houses

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      General Motors has announced a recall of 50,932 2017 through 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EVs in the U.S.
      The problem is the chance of a fire in the high-voltage battery pack, which could occur even when the vehicle is stopped, parked, and not plugged in to charge.
      GM said owners should park the vehicles outside and away from houses until repairs can take place and, in the video below, explains what else owners can do.
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      Chevrolet is recalling more than 50,000 of its Bolt EVs in the U.S. equipped with batteries manufactured by LG Chem in South Korea. There is a risk that these high-voltage batteries, located under the rear passenger seats, could catch fire. The Bolt EV has a 60.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
      Executive chief engineer Jesse Ortega, in the GM video above, details the problem and explains what owners can do while waiting for a fix.
      Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and GM are investigating complaints from owners and have confirmed five instances of fires related to the problem. NHTSA’s investigation report indicates that the agency is also investigating 2020 model year Bolt EVs and gives a total of vehicles potentially affected of 77,842. However, Chevrolet said, “The 2020 Bolt EV uses a different battery-cell design than the vehicles affected by this recall.”
      NHTSA’s report on its investigation of three vehicles that caught fire—one each from 2017, 2018, and 2019 model years—said “fire damage appeared to be concentrated in the EV battery compartment area with penetration into the passenger compartment from under the rear seat. The root cause of these fires is unknown. One of these incidents . . . reported smoke inhalation injuries.” In a consumer alert this afternoon, NHTSA said it has confirmed five fires and two injuries. In one case, the fire spread from the vehicle and “ignited a home.” Therefore, the agency says Bolt EV owners should park them away from houses and outdoors.
      At the time of each of the reported incidents, Ortega said, the batteries were at full or nearly full charge.
      What Owners Should Do Now
      GM will give dealers a software update beginning on November 17 while it continues to investigate the cause of the incidents and look for a fix. This software update will automatically limit the battery’s charge to 90 percent, the automaker said. Owners are asked to contact dealers and set up appointments on or after November 17 to get the software update.
      Meanwhile, Ortega said, owners of 2017 and 2018 Bolt EV vehicles should change their charge setting to the Hilltop Reserve option. Owners of 2019 Bolt EVs should change the vehicle charge setting to enable “target charge level at 90 percent.” Watch the video above for detailed instructions.
      Owners of potentially affected Bolt EV vehicles can check GM’s dedicated Bolt Recall website. Details of the NHTSA investigation are on its website.

      Battery pack is located under the rear seats of the Bolt EV. Pictured: 2017 model.
      Chevrolet

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