Dale Long, the first St. Croix Electric Cooperative member to take the Bolt EV (all electric vehicle) for a weekend as part of the Co-op’s member appreciation event in October, said he only touched the brake

pedal twice while driving 187 miles over the first weekend in October.

“The regenerative braking, especially using the paddle on the steering wheel, will bring the Bolt to a full stop while sending a charge to the battery,” Long wrote of his experience. “Brake pads should last a long time, as well as savings on other mechanics that are not there to be fixed or replaced - radiators, alternators, water pumps, etc.”

Long said when he is in the market for a new vehicle he will give an EV, particularly the Bolt, serious consideration. As an SCEC member, his purchase of an all-electric vehicle could qualify him for a $500 rebate on an EV Charging Station as well as a special EV rate if he chose to participate in the off-peak charging program.

“The acceleration is great, and the overall powertrain is very smooth,” Long wrote. “This would make a great second vehicle for any family that would need another vehicle for long road trips. If your long trips are usually completed by an alternate means of transportation the Bolt could easily be the only car needed.”

Over the three days Long drove the EV he visited the barber and grocery store and went “joy riding.”

- Appears in November 2018 Energy Lifestyles Magazine

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