Recently, General Motors put out a teaser video for the 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV. This electric utility vehicle is set to debut on Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World in Florida. There, Chevrolet will present the all-new vehicle along with the original Bolt hatchback’s 2021 refresh. Also, there’s been plenty of buzz surrounding a driver assistance feature the automaker is about to expand through its stable: the Super Cruise.

What do we know so far about the 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV? And what details are available about the new system Chevrolet calls the industry’s first true hands-free driver assistance system?

The 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV

MotorTrend recently reported a few details about the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV. The new Chevy crossover is a bigger, taller version of the 2021 Bolt. It’s five to six inches longer, too, with a wheelbase that adds three inches. The designers have essentially crafted a vehicle that’s more SUV than tall hatch.

Inside, an eye-catching driver display shows the electric range and battery pack data. You’ll be able to see if the Super Cruise hands-free highway automated driving system is active. The EPA rated the regular Bolt at a range of 259 miles. The team at MotorTrend thinks it’s possible the new EUV could exceed 290 miles on one charge.

The 2021 Bolt hatchback updates also make the Bolt EUV’s interior better. Quality materials and new seats provide additional comfort and an improved look. There’s a better infotainment system, a sunroof, and a push-button gear selector. 

The Bolt uses the BEV2 platform. According to MT, it’s different from the newer BEV3 platform, an Ultium battery system that will provide the base of a slew of new GM EVs in the near future. Chevrolet claims those vehicles will get as much as 450 miles on a charge. 

The automaker is investing $27 billion in developing electric and self-driving vehicles. It plans to produce 30 EV models worldwide before the end of 2025.

The Super Cruise driver assistance feature

So far, the Super Cruise driver assistance feature has been available only in Cadillacs. The Bolt EUV will be the first of many bowtie models to get Super Cruise. Now in its second generation, the system can make hands-free lane changes on compatible highways when the driver activates the turn signal. The new lane-changing feature will appear in 2021 Cadillac CT4, CT5, and Escalade models.

Considered the standard for advanced, semiautonomous driving since its 2018 introduction in the CT6, Super Cruise uses cutting-edge LiDAR scanning and mapping in conjunction with a driver-attention monitoring system. It brings together adaptive cruise control with full-stop and lane-keep assist sensors to allow hands-free driving. The system can be used safely on limited-access freeways and similar roadways.

The system also provides vital data. The digital gauge alerts the driver that an automated lane change has begun or if the feature is unavailable, requiring the driver to perform the maneuver manually. 

A future of innovation

GM has enhanced the second-generation Super Cruise with advanced software algorithms and rear-facing sensors. The advancements ensure the vehicle stays in its lane until it can find a gap to move into another safely. The evolving technology is giving GM an edge in the race to offer innovative new safety features in today’s vehicles. 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has long touted his automaker’s Autopilot driver-assist system. But many industry experts and reviewers consider the GM system to be a better one. When you recognize there have been no accidents using the Super Cruise system so far, you have to admit they have a point. Several high-profile accidents have involved Tesla EVs in Autopilot mode.

We’ll be watching the 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV’s release and Super Cruise developments with great interest. The new Bolt models are scheduled to begin production soon and reach dealerships this summer.