When I compare the FFE and upcoming Bolt, there are two major differences.
Trim level with leather MSRP FFE 31K 80 Mile Range; BOLT 41K 230 Mile Range
Everything else is roughly the same. The BOLT is actually shorter than the FFE. Basically a subcompact car.
So they have to convince customers that they need to pay 10K over existing vehicles to avoid range anxiety. How likely is that? The price is in the same range as some SUVs even after rebate/credits. Didn't both Ford and Nissan have to slash prices to get customers initially? Is that going to happen again? I have a feeling this vehicle will be a tough sell.
The FFE realistically works as a city car and for commutes of roughly 20-25 miles or less (each way). Same thing with the Leaf. We see ALOT of Leafs here in Atlanta, the commute (in mileage) works out well for alot of folks.
The Bolt opens up commutes of 60-70 miles (each way). That's HUGE. It also lets you go to the inlaws house or your brothers place (etc,etc).
The Bolt should outsell the FFE 10:1. What's REALLY interesting is how Nissan plays this for MY 2018. I don't think the FFE has a place in this game.
However, for someone with a commute of 20 miles (or less) each way, a used FFE is, in my no-so-humble opinion, the very best thing you can buy for the money.
2013 Black w/ Leather
Tint | Homelink | LED conversion | LED DRL mod | De-badged | 35w HID upgrade | Bosch L2 EVSE
I would agree that it will sell to some extent but the cost is the issue. If a person can buy a semi luxury vehicle for the same price as the Bolt, why would they buy a Bolt? I am talking about a person who is an average buyer not really sold on electric. Even with the rebate and tax credit it seems a difficult bridge to cross.