I just joined the Chevy Bolt family with a 2023 model, and I'm absolutely loving the car so far! However, relying on the standard Level 1 cord that came with it is starting to become a bit of a headache. I have a 50-mile daily commute, and the "trickle charge" just isn't cutting it to get me back to a full state of charge overnight.
I’m looking to install a dedicated Level 2 station in my garage soon. I've been doing some research, but there are so many brands out there like Grizzl-E, ChargePoint, and Emporia that it’s getting a little overwhelming. Since the newer Bolts can handle up to 11.5 kW, I’m wondering if it’s worth the extra effort to go for a 48-amp hardwired setup to maximize charging speed, or if a standard 40-amp NEMA 14-50 plug-in unit is more than enough for daily needs. I’d also love something with a solid mobile app so I can track my energy costs and easily schedule charging for off-peak hours to save on the utility bill. My budget is around $500–$600 for the unit itself.
For those of you who have been driving a Bolt for a while, which Level 2 charger has been the most reliable for you, and did you find it better to go with a hardwired or a plug-in installation?
Saved for later, ty!
Respectfully, I'd consider another option besides the usual suspects mentioned above. While the Grizzl-E is tough, if you're technical like me and love data, I think you'll find the Wallbox Pulsar Plus 48 Amp Level 2 EV Charger to be a total game-changer!
I actually disagree with the idea that a 40-amp plug-in is 'enough' for everyone. Since you're doing 50 miles daily, going with a 48-amp hardwired setup gives you that extra overhead and better heat management. Safety-first, right? Hardwiring eliminates the NEMA 14-50 outlet entirely, which is a common failure point for melting. The Wallbox is super compact and the app is fantastic for scheduling off-peak charging to save on those utility bills. It's usually right in your $500–$600 budget range too! Honestly, the peace of mind from a hardwired connection is absolutely worth the extra electrician fee. ⚡️ Hope this helps!
I went through this last year. Honestly, I was disappointed by the reliability of some cheaper units. I initially tried a basic plug-in, but the heat at the outlet actually caused some melting—scary stuff. I switched to a hardwired Grizzl-E Classic Level 2 EV Charger for its rugged build. Quick tip: If you want 48-amp speeds, you MUST go hardwired with a 60-amp breaker. NEMA 14-50 plugs are capped at 40 amps by code, fwiw.
Hi there, and welcome to the Bolt family! Honestly, for your 50-mile commute, a 40-amp plug-in is plenty, but I'd definitely suggest the ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 EV Charger for its reliability. Since safety is key, make sure to have a pro check your wiring first. If you want to maximize that 11.5 kW rate safely, I'd suggest going with a hardwired Emporia Level 2 EV Charger 48 Amp setup to avoid potential plug melting issues. Hope this helps!
Re: "Respectfully, I'd consider another option besides the usual..." - ngl I have this exact same issue and it is so frustrating. I've been a Bolt owner for a while now but I am finally looking to upgrade from that slow trickle charger, and I am totally paralyzed by all these choices. People in this thread make really good points about the safety of hardwiring for those 48-amp speeds versus the simple ease of a NEMA 14-50 plug, but seeing everyone split on it just adds to the confusion. I've been weighing the ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 EV Charger against the Grizzl-E Classic Level 2 EV Charger for like a month now. I am really cautious about the heat and melting issues mentioned with the outlets, but the extra electrician cost for hardwiring is making me hesitate. Basically every time I think I have found the right brand for my garage, I read another comment about app reliability or build quality and end up right back at square one. It is a total headache and I still havent found a clear answer for my own setup... you are definitely not alone in feeling overwhelmed by this.
Did this last week, worked perfectly