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Later this year, Kentucky Chevrolet dealers will see the new 2016 Chevy Bolt EV glide into their lots. This little gem will go down in history as the electric car that gives you the most bang for your buck. Well, spark for your buck…  since the 2016 Chevy Bolt EV will be able to get over 200 miles of electric driving range. To put that into perspective for you, the 2016 Hyundai Hybrid Plug-in can only go a range of 27 miles, 600 combined with it’s hybrid engine. Which means this little hatchback can drive a third of a plug-in hybrids total driving range on just electric power alone. That just goes to show how ahead of its time this car really is. Let’s compare and contrast the driving range and price to some of the other 2016 models, too give a better understanding of just how advanced it really is. Driving Range The driving range on the current Chevy Spark EV model is only sitting at 82 miles on one charge, which means the 2016 Bolt EV will be able to more than double the driving range on Chevy’s current electric vehicle. As far as competitors go, the Nissan Leaf is only offered with a maximum driving range of 107 miles per charge, and is one of the leaders on the market in terms of electric driving range, and the Bolt EV nearly doubles that as well. Overall, the Bolt EV is able to nearly double the electric driving range of any other electric car on the market. There is only one vehicle out there that’s able to beat in in driving range, and that’s the Tesla Model S 70, which gets 240 miles per charge. However, the price on the Tesla Model S 70 is $70,000. Which means the only way to beat the Bolt EV in 2016 is by shelling out twice as much. Price The Bolt EV will have a starting price of $37,500, before federal tax is applied. Which is more expensive than some of the current electric cars on the market, but it’s a justified price. Especially when you take into account the 200 miles per charge that’s offered in the Bolt EV. For example, the 2016 Soul EV has a range of 93 starts at an MSRP of $24,450. It’s about $10,000 dollars less than the Chevy Bolt EV, but it’s also one of the weaker electric cars on the market. Therefore, let’s take a look at the Nissan Leaf that was mentioned earlier. The Nissan Leaf comes in at $35,050 before federal tax, and is considered to be one of the top electric cars currently on the market. This means the Bolt EV is able to double the driving range of one of the top electric cars on the market, for just over a $2,000 increase in price. The Bolt EV is clearly the best priced electric car on the market when it comes to electric driving range, providing you the most spark for your buck in 2016.

If you have bad credit, chances are you will have a harder time finding financing for a car. What you might not be expecting are the high interest rates associated with bad credit auto loans. The interest rate is what makes paying off a bad credit car loan such a financially difficult endeavor, but it isn’t impossible. Even though you might not know exactly what your monthly interest rate will be, there is still a way to get a better idea of how much it will be. Note: There is really no way for you to know how much your interest rate on a bad credit car loan will be until you apply for financing, but you can still get an idea by using any type of car loan calculator. Two Rates Make One Before we jump into the calculating though, it’s important to understand there are two kinds of loans that make the total monthly rate on the car. The APR and the interest rate (or note rate), the ladder of the two being what will jack the monthly rate up if you have bad credit. APR The APR is the higher of the two rates and reflects the total cost of financing for the vehicle per year. The APR also covers things like GAP insurance, protection plans, the taxes owed on the purchase, etc. Basically, anything to directly do with the purchase of the vehicle. Note Rate The note rate represents the cost of borrowing money per year, including fees or interest accrued. Essentially, this has to do with the loan portion of the vehicle, which is where the higher interest rate on a bad credit auto loan comes from. In the end, these both add up to equal the total cost of what you will be paying monthly. It’s just important to understand the difference between these two monthly rates, so you know where the added expense is coming from. How To Calculate for a Bad Credit Car Loan First, you need to take a look at your state’s average bad credit auto loan interest rate. Since each state has a different interest rate on bad credit car loans. Some states can be around 10% and others all the way up to 19%, and figuring that out first is important. Now, take that state’s average bad credit auto loan interest rate and plug it into an auto loan calculator. Then, create a mock price of a car you think you can afford, let’s say $15,000, and plug that into an auto loan calculator along with the length of the car loan and the sales tax. Example: For a $16,050 car with a sales tax of 7% and a APR of 19%, your average monthly payment would be 416.35. Over 60 months you would have ended up paying $24,981 total on that car. It’s Not Precise, But it’s Close Enough While this might not be a direct representation of how much interest you will pay monthly on a bad credit car loan, it’s still an accurate one. Bad credit auto loans fluctuate from credit score to credit score, and you won’t know what score matches up to what monthly rate until you get approved for financing. But, at least this way you can start preparing early. Also, the higher interest rate you put in, the more prepared you will need to be. Giving yourself incentive to save up even more, and ensuring that you are ready to pay off whatever comes your way.

If you happen to find yourself in a tough financial situation - whether it's because of previous or current debts owed or bad investments, a job loss or particularly bad credit - the prospect of taking on an extra financial burden can seem pretty daunting. Spending a lot of money, or taking out a large loan, might seem like too heavy of an expense to take on, or too heavy of a financial burden to carry - and rightly so, especially if you are in your situation because of borrowing troubles in the past. Fortunately, there is still a relatively safe, manageable kind of loan you can take out to not only improve your immediate quality of life but also to help jumpstart your financial situation toward positive growth. These, of course, are bad credit car loans, which are typically available even to bad credit borrowers and can seriously help get your finances back on track for good. If you're still not sure about how you can use a bad credit auto loan to help revive your credit score, here are a few reasons why a bad credit car loan might just be the perfect kind of investment for you. Easy to Secure Compared to other kinds of loan agreements, bad credit car loans are relatively easy to secure - especially for bad credit borrowers. These loans are really directed toward those with credit too bad for other lenders, and exchanges the borrower's trust with a higher interest rate. This means that bad credit car lenders stand to make slightly more off the deal than standard lenders, and so they are more willing to work with those with less than stellar financial situations. A quick and easy approval can also help mitigate further damage to your credit score, as rejections can be reflected on your score and too many could be a red flag to future lenders. By doing your loan shopping within about a two week period and limiting the number of lenders requesting credit checks, you make sure that your credit score will not reflect multiple rejections from other lenders. An easy approval means only one request, and less of a chance of facing numerous rejections. Besides, many times these loans are set by the used car dealers themselves, meaning you can simplify your car buying and financing experience into one easy stop. Plus, by having an idea of what you're looking to pay and how much you can handle per month, the smart dealer can direct you toward a car that's perfectly suited to both your tastes and your price range - helping you avoid getting into a deal you really can't handle, and ensuring you get the best of what you want out of your bad credit car loan. Can Help Your Bad Credit Taking on a loan and paying it back responsibly is the absolute best way you can rebuild your credit, and this goes or those with bad credit as well. By taking out a bad credit car loan, you allow yourself to prove to the lender and all future lender that no matter what may have happened with your finances in the past, you can now be trusted as a responsible borrower who will make payments in full and on time. In this way, taking out a bad credit car loan could actually be the life preserver that saves your credit score from the depths. Being easy to secure, they offer a fairly democratic way to rebuild your financial portfolio in a positive and attainable way. Usually Relatively Affordable Bad credit auto lenders recognize that their customers are not in the best financial situation and so most of these loans are directed at those who cannot afford heavy monthly bills or egregious down payments. These loans are typically adjusted to fit your budget on the understanding that you'll be paying a higher interest rate, and thus a higher amount over a longer amount of time. By keeping your monthly expenses low, however, you give yourself a better chance of being able to better juggle your month-to-month finances and get yourself back on solid financial footing. This is especially important for those trying to rebuild credit, as making monthly payments on time is critical to the credit building process. In this regard, it may actually be worthwhile to pay the higher interest rates now if it brings the ability to secure better interest rates down the road. Once your credit is built back up a little, you can likely refinance your loan for lower rates or lower monthly payments to further increase affordability. Comes With Capital (A Car) Perhaps one of the greatest benefits to taking out a bad credit car loan is that, unlike other financial investments, this loan comes with very tangible capital: the car itself. More than just a bargaining chip, a car is a highly useful tool that can help you find a job, get to work, and live your life. By taking out a bad credit car loan you not only make an investment in your financial future, but in your personal potential as a functional member of society as well. Having this kind of annuity under your ownership only further proves to investors that you can invest intelligently and will definitely help your credit standing. Not A Super Long-Term Investment Perhaps most attractive to bad credit borrowers is that taking out a bad credit car loan is not a very long-term investment. At most, you'll probably find a five- or seven-year loan to be the average length, with the cost of the car and interest spread either fairly evenly throughout or set up as a balloon payment for later in the loan term. Because you're not investing for decades, you likely will not feel as though you're trapped under the loan for the rest of your financial career. Besides, it's always a positive step to set an attainable goal for yourself financially, and setting yourself up to be in a better situation in five years or so is definitely a reachable sight to set. It's not too hard to imagine how someone finds themselves in a bad credit situation. Whether from late bill payments, a foreclosure or bankruptcy, a stolen identity, or even from defaulting on a previous loan, your bad credit can follow you for a long time - but that doesn't mean it has to rule your lie, and determine what you can and can't have for your happiness and comfort. By taking a few simple steps, like taking out a manageable bad credit car loan, you too can begin the healing process for your bad credit. With a bad credit car loan, you give yourself an easy way to prove your fiscal responsibility, and you get a car out of the deal. As far as smart financial moves go, it could definitely be a lot worse. If you, like millions of Americans, are facing bad credit and are tired of hearing rejection after rejection from lenders, consider a bad credit car loan from a car dealer or lender near you. It could be just the thing to save your credit - and get you back on the road to financial freedom with confidence.

Electric cars have been around as long as gas cars; in fact, some of the earliest cars ever produced were all-electric, and after decades of rising and falling interest, it seems as though electric vehicles are finally starting to gain some real footing in the auto market. For some automakers, like Chevrolet, electric vehicles are nothing new. In fact, Chevy has been working on electric vehicles for decades and is continuing that legacy with new electric vehicles introduced every year. Here’s a quick rundown on Chevy’s work with electric vehicles, and a quick look into where they plan to take this technology in the future. Benefits of Electric Cars Contact Us GM EV1 After nearly a century of gas-powered dominance in the automotive world, nobody had a decent electric car. The average consumer couldn’t get the high-tech electric concepts that automakers were developing for trade shows, and automakers weren’t providing a mass-produced electric model that was affordable to the general public – until GM, that is. In 1996, GM unveiled its EV1 model: an all-electric vehicle designed to take the average consumer around town without using a drop of gas. The EV1 Was only available in select cities with limited lease-only agreements. They were not available to the general public and could only be serviced at certain Saturn dealerships. However, with a high cost to build and not enough widespread interest to fuel further sales (the EV1 was lease-only), GM decided to discontinue the line, even going so far as to repossess and crush most of the EV1s on the road – despite consumer protest. Currently, only one intact EV1 survives at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C, with other disabled models scattered worldwide. This groundbreaking vehicle only paved the way for the future of electric vehicles at GM and at Chevy, including one truck model directly based on the EV1. Chevrolet S-10 EV With Pandora’s box of electric vehicles now opened, several automakers decided to jump into the electric vehicle game, including Chevrolet. With the introduction of its S-10 EV, marketed toward utility fleet customers, Chevy broke the mold of what a pickup could be. Featuring an all-electric drive, the S-10 EV could travel up to 60 miles on a single electric charge and could reach speeds up to 70 miles per hour – just 10 mph less than the GM EV1. Chevrolet, however, actually opened this electric truck up for sale, not just lease, and managed to sell off about 60 of the S-10 EV trucks to fleet customers – meaning several of these trucks still survive on the road today. Unfortunately, Chevy decided to scrap the S-10 EV for many of the same reasons that GM scrapped the EV1, and so many of the unsold models were similarly crushed and scrapped. The S-10 EV would be the last commercially available electric car from Chevy for almost two decades. That doesn’t mean, however, that the company wasn’t still hard at work on this electric technology. Chevrolet Mi-Ray After the “death” of the electric car in the mid-90s, consumers were not sold on the all-electric concept. With rising gas prices, however, more and more drivers were looking toward hybrid technology to combine the reliable performance of a gas engine with the emission-free efficiency of electric. For a while, many companies made models that used hybrid drivetrains to balance performance and efficiency. Chevrolet experimented with hybrid SUVs, including the Tahoe and Silverado in 2013, but these met with limited success in sales. It wasn’t until Chevy took on a new strategy that things seemed to click. See the Chevrolet Mi-Ray, a concept vehicle first unveiled at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show that would set a precedent for how Chevy would build the successful hybrid models of today. The Mi-Ray, with dual front-mounted 15-kW electric motors powered by a 1.6-kWh lithium-ion battery charged through regenerative braking, could power its front wheel using only electric power. This meant that drivers could take the Mi-Ray around the city using only front-wheel drive and not use a drop of gasoline – a revolution in driver-selectable efficiency that made the Mi-Ray essentially an electric car or hybrid car on demand. Chevy Malibu and Chevy Volt Chevy would take this same idea and apply it to future hybrid models – with notable success. The 2016 Chevy Malibu comes with a hybrid drivetrain that can power the Malibu up to 55 miles per hour before the gas engine kicks in. This features the same system of letting the electric motor run alone for as long as it can before activating the gas engine to maximize efficiency. For light driving situations, you may not use gas at all. And while the Malibu hybrid is designed to maximize the efficiency of the gas engine, its sibling the 2016 Chevrolet Volt is built to maximize electric range. Able to travel up to 53 miles on electric power alone, the Volt is designed to minimize gas usage as much as possible and rely on electricity primarily. And as impressive as these hybrid models are, Chevy has not been shy about ditching gas power altogether. Chevy Spark EV and Chevy Bolt In its first move toward an all-electric mass-produced model since the S-10 of the mid-90s, Chevy unveiled its Spark EV – an all-electric version of the efficient compact Spark – for the 2015 model year. This sporty electric vehicle can reach an amazing 82-mile range on a single charge. And with the seemingly instantaneous acceleration that’s endemic among electric motors, you’ll really be able to feel the Spark EV’s 327 lb-ft of torque as you zip through tight urban roads without burning a bit of gas. Plus, not only can the Spark charge to full battery in just seven hours, but every Spark EV comes with an available DC Fast Charging option, which can charge the battery to 80 percent in just 20 minutes at a Fast Charging station. And soon to come is the already-announced Chevy Bolt, the mass-produced version of an all-electric concept first unveiled in 2015. This impressive and stylish hatchback is capable of driving as far as 200 miles on a single charge and can reach full battery in just nine hours. And although unparalleled in efficiency, this electric is also equally concerned with being a luxurious hatchback model, featuring seating for five, 56.6 cubic feet of cargo space, and a 10.2-inch diagonal touchscreen infotainment display. For electric vehicle lovers, the Chevy Bolt EV represents the best of a good thing to come. Chevrolet’s Electric Future If you want to transition to an electric vehicle, Chevrolet has you covered. With a lineup that will include three SUVs, a sedan, and a truck by 2024, you will find an EV you love with Chevy. The lineup as of right now is: Bolt EV Bolt EUV Equinox EV (Available starting Fall 2023) Blazer EV (Available starting Summer 2023) Silverado (Available starting Fall 2023) Clearly, Chevrolet is no stranger to the world of electric vehicles. With such a storied history, it's no wonder Chevy's current line of hybrid and electric models, and those coming up in the near future, are so impressive. If advances like these are going to keep coming, then we're excited to see what else Chevy has in store for electric vehicles in the coming years.

The interest rate on bad credit auto loans are typically much higher than those with good credit. Even though this is an unfortunate fact, there are reasons behind it. These reasons might not be considered “good reasons” in your book if you have or need to get a bad credit car loan, so let’s just call them “justified reasons.” Because while they’re unfortunate, they are still understandable if you step back and look at it from a bigger perspective. Here are a couple reasons, and a deeper understanding, as to why the interest rates on bad credit auto loans are so high. Good Credit vs. Bad Credit Interest Rate In 2015, the bad credit car loan interest rate was on a steady incline, and it’s a costly. Even though you won’t qualify at some places for 0% APR like a consumer with good credit, you still need to keep your head up. Shop around, find the best deal, the interest rate will fluctuate from dealer to dealer, allowing you at least a little bit of wiggle room when it comes to lowering the amount you’ll pay. The interest rate also fluctuates depending on what your credit score is, and you may not actually have bad credit at all. It always pays to figure that out before you go shopping around, that way you know what you qualify for. Even though it may fluctuate depending on your credit score, the fact of the matter is that if you have bad credit it doesn't matter what your score is; it’s going to be an expensive interest rate. A Big Difference The average interest rate is a big difference depending on your credit score. Obviously, the better credit score you have the better your interest rate is going to be. Typically, credit scores operate in a range from 301-850. A good credit score is considered to be anywhere from 700-749, whereas a bad credit score is anywhere below 600. Your interest rate in 2015 with a credit score below 501 would have been anywhere from 13.16% to 14.51%. Maybe even higher than that, and a little bit less if you are sitting between 501-600. The average rate is anywhere from 4-6% on a car loan taken out by someone with good credit, which means your interest rate is more than doubled if you have bad credit. But, why is the average rate so high? Because, You Have Bad Credit This isn’t me being funny or sarcastic, this is a legitimate reason as to why you have a high interest rate on your bad credit car loan. When subprime lenders like used car dealers or other independent organizations take on consumers with bad credit, it’s a two way street. What I mean is this: on one side of the street you are putting your faith in them to find you a loan for a reliable used car that you can afford. While on the other side of the street, they are taking on a customer with rocky financial history and trusting that you will actually make your monthly payments to the lender. Never thought of it that way, huh? A Security Measure For Them If you deal directly with a used car dealership, you will most likely be getting a loan directly through them. In turn, you will be paying them every month directly. They want cash, and generally don’t allow checks or money orders. This way, the only way for you to make your payment for that month is face-to-face at the dealership. This avoids any “my check is in the mail” or other prolonged excuses along those lines, which could ultimately end up with them losing profit on repossessing your car or another way; neither of which they want to happen. I know what you are thinking “but I’m not like that!” And I’m not saying you are, but the fact of the matter is, some customers with bad credit have a history of not being financially responsible because they don’t care enough. Therefore, this is the dealers security net for providing you with a loan. But, you can look at it as an incentive to make your payments on time. How is it an incentive? Well, if you make your payments on time and improve your credit, you are able to apply for better financing after that first loan is paid off. Which means the next loan you apply for will have a lower interest rate because of your new and improved credit score. If you miss payments, however, you will dig yourself even deeper into bad credit. So, look at it in a hopeful light. Even though this high interest rate on your loan is costly now, it won’t be that way forever if you keep up with your payments. Also, now that you understand the dealers are taking a big leap of faith as well, that might make cutting a deal with them easier to swallow. It’s the Used Car Dealers Source of Income Let’s face it, if you have bad credit there is a slim chance of you qualifying for a shiny new car, and no reason for you to. You should look at used car dealerships for something cheap and reliable without the bells and whistles, because all you need is something to get you from point A to point B. Which brings me to my next point; a more specific reason as to why a used car dealership might have such a high interest rate is because that’s how they make their money on the sale. Typically, the car they get is bought cheap from auction and sold at a lower price, but it’s still reliable and runs fine. It just might be a car that doesn’t sell very well or a minor aesthetic issue. Therefore, it would be hard for them to turn a profit on it under normal circumstances; but these aren’t normal circumstances. They are dealing with consumers who have no where else to go, and they need to keep the business open so they can keep people with bad credit on the road. Therefore, the only thing left for them to profit off of is the high interest rate. Without that interest rate from their customers, they would not be able to turn a profit and keep their business open for consumers with bad credit who desperately need a car. In Conclusion… While going through other lenders is an option, like a bank or credit union, these ones are typically tougher than going to a used car dealer. Most used credit car dealers understand your need for a car, and know how difficult it is when it comes to finding financing for one with bad credit. But, they are still a business. At the end of the day, they need a way to cover themselves for the cost of a repossession if you stop paying for your loan halfway through the first year. The interest rate can serve as payment for that. On top of that, the car they paid for doesn’t really have a high resale value, and they are dealing with consumers who need a reliable and cheap car to get them down the road. This puts them in an interesting situation: they need to figure out how to sell a cheaper car to a consumer whose only option is a cheap car, while still figuring out how to make a profit. The answer? A high interest rate. Even though it’s an unfortunate reality, just these two reasons behind why a used car dealer would have a loan with a higher interest rate are should lessen the pain a little bit. You can’t fault them for trying to cover themselves, and they still need to make a profit somehow.

The 2017 Chevy Bolt will soon be hitting dealership lots. The Bolt will appeal to a variety of different drivers. It’s stylish, safe, and roomy, and there are plenty of entertaining technological features. Could you really ask for anything else? Furthermore, the vehicle is a sign that Chevy is dedicated to producing the most innovative cars yet. “The Bolt EV truly embodies the ingenuity that is at the core of everything we do at Chevrolet,” said Alan Batey, president of General Motors North America and head of Global Chevrolet. “The technologies and the engineering expertise behind the Bolt EV are tremendous examples of the kind of innovation we intend to offer our customers, across an array of products at a tremendous value – something only Chevrolet can deliver.” With an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range, the 2017 Chevy Bolt will be an amazing, stylish, and practical daily driver. To see why the upcoming Chevy Bolt can appeal to a variety of different drivers, continue reading below. When you’re finished reading, you’ll be itching to get down to your Chevrolet dealers in Kentucky … Stand-Out Features The 2017 Bolt has many distinguishing features that make it a great choice for an EV. These include: Large windows for panoramic visibility LED headlamps and taillamps 6 cubic feet of flexible cargo volume 60/40 split-folding rear seats A hidden storage compartment 2-inch-diagonal color touchscreen display with “flip-board” operation more It's Stylish Exterior of the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV The 2017 Bolt is the first “ground-up, long-range electric vehicle,” meaning the engineers had plenty of flexibility when designing the car. The result was surprisingly stylish, as the vehicle includes distinctive cut lines and noticeable proportions. The exterior of the 2017 Bolt includes large windows for panoramic visibility, a progressive profile, and LED headlamps and taillamps. “We were given a blank canvas – a rare opportunity with a unique platform to recast EV design for customers across the spectrum,” said Stuart Norris, managing director of Design. “The team answered the challenge with a progressive design distinguished by dramatic graphics and exceptional passenger space.” The vehicle can easily fit five occupants, and they’ll also remain comfortable considering the spacious interior measurements. Due to the lack of a battery, front passengers are provided with even more legroom, and they’ll also notice the ease of entering and exiting the vehicle. The multi-purpose front console provides the driver and front passenger with sliding armrests, a sizable storage bin, and a wireless charging station. Of course, the engineers weren’t only focused on making a stylish vehicle during the production process. Their vehicle was also designed to provide an optimal driving experience. For example, the “expressive proportions” play a role in the vehicle’s “solid, robust stance.” Meanwhile, the “enclosed, flat underbody” streamlines airflow and improves the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Engineers were able to include this latter feature due to the electric vehicle’s lack of a battery, which means the area typically reserved for air combustion is empty. “The flat-pack orientation offered the flexibility to make the most of the proportions while creating a clean, sculpted design,” said Norris. “This really opened up the interior and created a fantastic view from every seating position. All of this additional space gave us a lot of opportunities to play with creative design and storage solutions.” The vehicle was also designed to provide drivers with plenty of cargo room. The fold-flat seats will provide the driver with 56.6 cubic feet of flexible cargo volume, and the 60/40 split-folding rear seats mean you can customize this area to store any cumbersome or oddly shaped item. You’ll also find a hidden storage compartment underneath this rear space, providing you with an extra bit of room to stow away some of your more valuable cargo. It was Chevy’s goal to produce a vehicle that was both stylish and practical. The inclusion of these design choices wasn’t intended only for aesthetic purposes, but they were instead chosen because they impact the vehicle’s drivability. There's Plenty of Technology The technology inside of the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV Electric vehicles are rather innovative, so it’s no surprise that the 2017 Bolt contains some of the most advanced technological features ever included in a Chevy model. It starts with the interactive 10.2-inch diagonal tablet that serves a variety of purposes. The touchscreen can provide the driver with plenty of information and settings, such as: The car’s battery levels The range estimation Any charging settings Your vehicle’s interior climate control settings Apple CarPlay You’ll be able to make calls, listen to your music, and even access your calendar. If you want to browse YouTube and play a song, you can easily access the video via the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Other unique technological features include a rear camera mirror, which provides the driver with a wide-angle view of everything happening behind their car. The Surround Vision technology also gives the driver a “bird’s-eye view” of the area surrounding the Bolt. Eventually, the vehicle is expected to include Gamification technology, which will allow Bolt owners to compare their driving styles to determine who drives most efficiently. “The Bolt EV is capable of using the latest mobile app technology to enable car sharing, advanced GPS routing and gamification, all designed to enhance the ownership experience now and into the future,” said General Motors Chairman and CEO Mary Barra. Of course, regarding technology, we also have to mention the car’s electric capabilities. The vehicle offers more than 200 miles of range per charge, and customers can also opt to have a 240-volt charging station installed at their house. The vehicle completely fills its charge in nine hours. And Of Course, It's Safe Engineers wanted to keep the Bolt's driver and passengers safe, so they included a number of "ingenious radar- and camera-based systems" to help further protect the vehicle's occupants. Preventative technologies include the Forward Pedestrian Alert and Forward Collision Alert (which will anticipate a potential collision and adjust accordingly), the Side Blind Zone Alert (which will let the driver know of any driver who may have snuck up beside them), and the Rear Cross Traffic Alert. These systems are supplemented with the previously-mentioned Rear Camera Mirror and Surround Vision technology. The vehicle is made of an advanced high-strength steel that will absorb the brunt of any impact. Furthermore, the 10 air bags will provide all of the car's occupants with just one more way to stay protected. Finally, the Bolt features OnStar's Automatic Crash Response. In the case of an emergency, personnel will be sent to your vehicle as soon as possible (with assistance from your car's GPS). The 2017 Bolt offers enough features to make any driver happy. Those looking to impress fellow drivers will appreciate the stylish, eye-catching design. Those with large families will appreciate the abundance of cargo room, and your passengers will enjoy all of the technological features. Of course, everyone can appreciate the various safety features and capabilities. Regardless, it's clear that the upcoming Chevy Bolt will be a vehicle that can appeal to any driver.

The 2016 Chevy Impala is the latest full-size family sedan to hit Chevrolet dealerships in KY. It boasts some rather impressive crash test results and has been awarded an overall 5-star safety rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This is no doubt because of state-of-the-art safety features that have been loaded into the 2016 Impala. This full-size, reliable, and safe family sedan is sure to be stiff competition on the market and give other sedans a run for their money. Crash Test Results The Impala received a 5-star safety rating in the categories of Frontal Crash and Side Crash, and 4-stars in Rollover. The front crash test involves the Impala going 35 mph into a stationary barrier. The results are based on injury ratings to the driver and passenger’s head, neck, chest, and legs. The rating for the side crash is based on similar points of injury, but this time it’s done with an intersection-type crash. Finally, the risk of rollover was rated for the Impala, and it was given a 12.1% rating, which is normal for sedans. Overall, the Impala received very good ratings in terms of safety. Making the safety features on this full-size family sedan some of the best ones out there. Key Safety Features In the 2016 Chevy Impala, you are surrounded by safety. Whether the Impala needs to help you prevent a crash or protect you from a crash; it’s got you covered. Safety features included in the Impala include: Forward Collision Alert Lane Departure Warning Rear Cross Traffic Alert High-Strength Frame Side-Impact, Seat-Mounted, And Roof-Rail-Mounted Airbags For The Front And Rear Outboard Seating Positions Leading the way in preventive safety is the Impala’s Forward Collision Alert system. This system has a camera that detects the possibility of an imminent collision. Then, it alerts the driver visually and audibly through the speakers. This gives the driver a chance to break out of their reverie with enough time to safely stop the vehicle. The Lane Departure Warning also utilizes a camera-based system to inform the driver they are unintentionally changing lanes. Don’t forget to use your blinker, because, between that and the camera’s proximity to lane markings, it’s how it identifies an unintentional lane change. Rear Cross Traffic Alert is a system that engages when the vehicle is put into reverse. This system also uses a camera to pick up on traffic crossings behind you while in reverse. Making backing out of parking spots in crowded places much safer and easier. In the event of a collision, the high-strength frame that surrounds the front and sides of the cab will mitigate most of the damage. When the frame is hit, sensors quickly and safely deploy any of the ten airbags depending on the type of crash and how severe it is. The Impala has driver and front passenger frontal and knee airbags, along with side-impact, seat-mounted, and roof-rail-mounted airbags for the front and rear outboard seating positions. How it Stacks Up Against the Competition The Impala is stacked up against some pretty tough competition, but it’s holding its own just fine. Toyota’s 2016 Avalon only received 4 stars in both Frontal Crash and Rollover categories, while the Impala sits at 5 stars in the first test. The ever-popular Honda Accord received an overall 5-star safety rating as well, but it received 4 stars in Frontal Crash and 5 stars in Rollover; so it’s questionable as to which one did better. There are many more sedans out there, but those two are some of the more popular ones on the roads today. The Impala is doing just fine in the sedan market, and while it’s not crushing the competition, it’s still a very safe and reliable pick for a family sedan. It has plenty of safety features to prevent and protect you in the event of a crash, and even OnStar for responsive purposes. Plus, it looks good doing it.

Let's face it, it's the future: the internet is a daily, necessary tool; more people than ever are regularly connected to each other online; and, maybe most significantly, nearly everybody carries a cell phone. This means that, at any one time, anyone can access a virtually limitless amount of information from just about anywhere. That's pretty revolutionary in terms of sharing knowledge - and automakers certainly haven't missed that cue. Take Chevy, for example, which has recently unveiled its MyChevrolet mobile app. This technology strips away many of the outdated methods of connecting a consumer with their automaker, and helps move modern car buying and car ownership further into the 21st century. If our predictions are correct, MyChevrolet represents the next wave of mobile connectivity for car owners. Chevy owners who purchase from Chevy dealerships in Kentucky can access this app through the App Store or Google Play and, once installed, can link the software to individual vehicles using the Vehicle Identification Number on each Chevy you wish to connect. From here, the app can connect the driver to a host of available accessibility options to make driving, and Chevy ownership in general, that much easier. more It's Your Owner's Manual - Without All The Paper One of the most immediately useful aspects of using a connected app for car owners is the ability to ditch the bulky, wasteful owner's manual - once the space-hogging bane of any glove box, these hefty and outdated hunks of pages are only getting bigger as cars get more advanced and complex. It only makes sense to digitize such important and complex instructions - making them not only easier to carry around, but easier to access from just about anywhere as well. Your Personal Service Assistant Since the MyChevrolet app is directly linked to your vehicle, it can tell how long you've been driving and how your vehicle is doing - and when it's time for a checkup. Since drivers can store their preferred mechanic's contact info within the app, MyChevrolet makes contacting your service department and setting up an appointment as simple as the push of a button, and can even help locate the nearest dealer or service center when you're out on the road. A Handy Parking Reminder We've all been there - you leave your car parked in a safe spot, only to forget exactly where that spot is hours later upon your return. It's a natural phenomenon, but it's about time it stopped. That's why MyChevrolet is so helpful for the little things - it can remember exactly where you left your Chevy, and using GPS it can lead you back to the exact spot where it's waiting for you, ready to go. And, with handy reminders that can monitor meter times and remind you to get back, you'll never have to worry about a careless mistake costing you a parking ticket again. If our guess is as good as we think it is, drivers should expect to see more connected app technology like this in years to come. For now, we're fairly impressed with what Chevy has been able to accomplish with their MyChevrolet app, and even more excited to see where it takes us for the future.

Dealing with bad credit auto dealerships or other subprime lenders is an expensive process. But, if it’s the only chance you have of getting into a car, then you don’t really have a choice. You are going to be locked out of some deals and options that a person with good credit has, and it will be much more costly to finance a car with bad credit. While this may be the case, that doesn’t mean you can’t save some money. Explore Your Options You have multiple options when it comes to getting a bad credit car loan; you can find a dealer that specializes in dealing with consumers who have credit, check your bank/credit union (they may be a bit more difficult to get financing from), or go directly to a subprime lender. Shop around, and find the best deal. While being locked into what type of car you are going to get (because your bad credit will dictate that) you can still see who is going to give you the best deal on a loan. Also, don’t be afraid of the dealerships. That stigma that the dealerships have the worst deal when it comes to bad credit auto loans should be eradicated. On the contrary, the dealers will sometimes have the best deal when it comes to bad credit auto financing. Get Your Credit Score Your credit score will help the lender you are dealing with determine what type of car you can afford, so make sure you do it yourself. Make sure you get your credit score before you go shopping around for loans/financing. It’s important to know your score beforehand for two reasons. One: if you have too low of a score, you may not be able to get financing at all. Two: if you have too high of a credit score and go shopping for a bad credit car loan, you may be getting a deal you don’t deserve. Also, having this information beforehand will help prepare you for the deal that needs to be made. Shop Smart Speaking of interest rate, this is also one thing you can control… too an extent. The dealer or the subprime lender is going to show you the cars you can afford, not the ones you want. Which is understandable, that’s why they are there. But, if you are eligible for a car that is sitting around $18,000 and there is also a car available for $14,000, go for the one that costs less. It will still get you from point A to point B, and while you may not have a sunroof or heated seats, that’s okay. A lower priced car means a lower priced loan, which also means less interest paid overtime. Try too avoid getting an extended loan; this causes you too pay way more over a longer period of time because of the high interest rate. Pay Attention! Make sure you are alert when cutting the deal, while not all dealerships or subprime lenders include them, there are a few extra fees that could be added in to the deal you don’t need. The reason you are looking for a car at a bad credit dealership is because you can’t afford to get a good credit loan. That being said, don’t worry about warranties, paint protection, or any other added fees you don’t need. Again, you just need a car to get you from Point A to Point B. While you may not have full control over the high interest rate accrued while paying off your bad credit loan, that doesn’t mean you are at a complete loss while trying to save money. Just shop smart, pay attention, and make sure to make your payments on time, and your loan will be paid off before you know it.

Getting a car with poor credit is tough, but not impossible; it just takes some research and a little extra elbow-grease. You aren’t just locked into getting a bad credit car loan one way, either. You do have some options out there. A common way is to find bad credit auto dealers, which are dealerships that specialize in financing consumers who have bad credit. If that doesn’t work for you, another option is finding a sub-prime lender. Which is an independent company that specializes in auto-financing for those who have bad credit. Your bank or credit union is another option; credit unions being the more lenient of the two. Before you begin thinking about your options though, you need to understand what you are getting yourself into, and if you are even eligible for one. What’s a Bad Credit Auto Loan? A bad credit auto loan is essentially just like the other loans out there; you find a lender, apply for a loan, and if you are eligible you get a loan/new car. But in this case, the interest rate is much higher. While typical car financing will have around a 5% interest rate for those with good credit, the interest rate for a bad credit consumer could be anywhere from 13% to 19% depending on where you live. It’s important to take this into account when looking for financing options, because the interest rate will be costly. Am I Eligible? You need to find out if you are even eligible; it’s important. Even if your credit score isn't stellar, that doesn’t mean you should go looking for a bad credit car loan. Poor credit is considered to be approximately anywhere between 300 to 550, and subprime credit is between 550 to 620. If you fall anywhere in these categories, you should apply for a bad credit car loan. If you don’t, you should avoid applying. Why? Because you would be getting an interest rate that is much higher than you would if you went for standard financing on a car. Also, it’s important to note that if your credit score is too low, you won’t get approved. Dealing Directly With Dealerships There are dealerships out there that specialize in bad credit financing, you just need to look for them. They will generally have a person at the dealership (or connections) that specialize in dealing with consumers who have bad credit. This bad credit auto dealer is somebody who specializes in finding the car that you can afford, not one that you want. With this option, you will be putting your faith in the specialist’s hands to find you a car that will be able to reliably get you down the road. While they will give you the car that you can afford, that doesn’t mean you can’t bargain for less. If you get a car that is $18,000 with a sun roof, but there is also one eligible for $15,000 that runs just as well, go for the lower costing car. Why? Because a lower cost means a smaller loan, and that means less interest paid in the long run. You would think you are stuck getting a used car, but you can get a new one as well. There are different bad credit auto dealers out there that sell used or new cars, and they both have ups and downs. A newer car is, obviously, going too cost more than a used car. So, if you are looking to get on the road at a cheaper price, try and find a used dealership. If you want a car that will be more expensive, but probably last you longer than a used car, then try and find a new car dealer. Dealers will typically advertise if they have bad credit auto financing, so make sure you look for signs like “Your job is your credit!” or “Bad credit? No problem!” Whether you choose to go to a new or used car dealer, you need too make payments on time. It’s much easier for the dealership to repossess your car than it is for somebody to repossess a house; they know it and you should know it. If you don’t make your payments on time, chances are they won’t be too lenient when it comes to letting you drive around. This is because you have bad credit, and to them, letting you borrow the car is a risk factor. It’s perfectly reasonable for them to use the car as collateral, so make sure your payments get in on time and show them you are financially responsible too avoid any issues. Subprime Lenders Sub-prime lenders are another route you could take, and instead of dealing directly with the dealership, you would take out a loan through them. Subprime lenders specialize in lending to consumers who have bad credit history. Much like dealerships, you are dealing with high interest rates while paying back a loan and the possibility of repossession. Unlike dealerships, a subprime lender might be more willing too work with you. I’m not saying dealerships are stubborn, but when you are looking for a subprime lender they are expecting you too walk through that door, it’s what they do. You are bypassing the dealer and going straight to the source in order to apply for a subprime loan directly. What these subprime lenders do is sit you down and discuss your credit score, they then show you some options and talk to some dealers they are affiliated with. Sometimes this is good, sometimes this is bad. A subprime lender can act as a helpful middleman, or they can cut you a bad deal. Typically, these lenders are considered a last resort, and most people would rather deal with the dealerships. With these types of lenders, it’s important to have both your eyes and ears open, and if something sounds fishy then call it off. It also wouldn’t hurt to have another set of eyes and ears with you for another reason. Co-signing Having that second person there is a great way to make sure you get the best deal possible, and with nothing extra tacked on. This person is also a great way to help ensure you get a loan from a subprime lender or financing from a dealer. They can be your co-signer if need be, but this needs to be taken seriously. Only have them be a co-signer if you are sure you will be able to endure the duration of the payment plan. If you do not pay off the loan fully or miss payments, then you are putting the co-signer at risk. Since they put their reputation on the line for you, their credit score will also suffer. They may even be required to pay off the rest of your loan. Banks/Credit Unions Even if you don’t think it will work, check with your bank. The banks understand your financial habits better than anyone, and you may be able to get a loan from them. Even more lenient than a bank is a credit union; their qualifications aren’t nearly as high for someone looking for a loan, and are even easier on members. I’m not saying it’s going to be a walk in the park, but it’s worth a shot to at least check with your bank. There are plenty of options out there for bad credit auto-financing, and you may need to be a little more alert and work harder than a consumer with good credit, but it’s possible to get a car with bad credit. Dealerships are popular because they are able to do most of the work for you, and if that isn’t an option you can always look online for one of the numerous subprime lender sites out there. A bank or credit union might be a little tough, but it’s worth a shot; and only consider a co-signer if you know for a fact you will not compromise their credit. Don’t feel locked into one route, it’s up to you, and you can explore all of your options before making a decision.

Certified used cars are starting to increase in popularity, according to a recent report in Edmunds.com. While traditional used cars previously dominated the market, these brand-certified vehicles are beginning to take over, with the majority of consumers admitting they'd spend more money to secure that type of car. Before you head out to used car lots in Lexington, Kentucky, see why you may want to opt for a certified used car... It's first important to understand what a 'certified used car' actually is and how it's different from your standard used vehicle. Typically, these 'certified' pre-owned cars have been given the thumbs up by their respective brand, making them eligible to be resold at any of that brand's dealerships. These vehicles are typically more trustworthy than your standard used vehicle, as the certification process ensures that there is nothing wrong with the vehicle. Furthermore, these cars are often accompanied by a warranty, further protecting you in case the used car does happen to run into some issues. Customers may even receive several other benefits, many of which are often reserved only for new-car buyers.https://www.dancummins.com/bad-credit-car-loans-kentucky According to a report by Peter Gareffa of Edmunds.com 88-percent of used-car buyers are willing to dish out extra money for a certified used car. About a third of those responders said they'd be willing to spend as much as $1,000 extra to secure the vehicle, with another third saying they'd invest an extra $500. These vehicles typically run for about $1,500 more than a standard used car, according to the writer, although that extra charge could be justified with an accompanying warranty, low-rate financing, or free roadside assistance. The market continues to grow for these certified used vehicles, as a recent Edmunds.com report showed that these vehicles account for about 22-percent of all used-car purchases. This number has been steadily growing, as a similar report showed that certified vehicles accounted for only 18-percent of the used market in 2010. "More and more shoppers are opening their eyes to the benefits of certified pre-owned vehicles," Jessica Caldwell, Edmunds.com director of Industry Analysis, told Gareffa. "These cars offer a unique value proposition to shoppers who want to pay used-car prices but demand the peace of mind that comes with a new-car purchase. "And while CPO used to be associated only with expensive luxury brands, we've seen every mainstream brand get into the game in recent years. With more near-new cars coming off lease and making up a larger chunk of used car supply, shoppers can expect even more CPO vehicles on dealer lots in the coming months and years." It could only be a matter of time before the majority of consumers are seeking certified-preowned vehicles over a standard used car. After all, they vehicles are more trustworthy, and you know you're buying from a dependable source. Of course, depending on which dealership you're purchasing from, you shouldn't be concerned.

For anyone in the market for a new or used vehicle, having a bad credit score can seem like an insurmountable hurdle. While one might expect his or her options for obtaining a loan to be slim, the opposite may actually be truer. These days, there seem to be hundreds of bad credit auto lenders waiting for consumers with sub-par credit to walk through the door. Many of these businesses, if not most, are perfectly reputable and offer an excellent service for those struggling customers who need an auto loan. As with any market, however, there are certain things to watch out for to avoid overpaying or agreeing to an unfair loan arrangement. By following a few simple tips, you can know what to look for in bad credit car dealerships, and how to choose the one that's right for you. more Find a Varied, Experienced Lender If possible, it's best to look around for auto financing from a dealer, bank, or credit union that offers multiple types of loans - from long term to short term, and on new and used vehicles. This shows not only a comfort and professionalism with negotiation agreements, but also an ability to be flexible and work with the borrower. It's also best to try and find a lender that is well established and well regarded in your community. Look at the lender's online reviews and try to gather what you can about how they operate and what you should expect. Don't Settle for Bad Customer Service A financial agreement is often a long relationship built on trust. When you agree to a deal with a lender, you are essentially creating a connection between you and that lender. That being said, it's important to pick a lender who you can work with easily and who offers excellent customer service. Look around online at their social media presence and see how responsive they are to customer complaints or comments. Check their customer service policy on their website, or go in person and talk to a representative if possible. If it seems difficult to get in touch with the lender, then maybe it's best to consider another source. Depending on your financial situation, you may also want to seek out a lender that works with clients who have faced bankruptcy. Whether or not you have faced bankruptcy yourself, the very fact that the lender will work with these clients should speak to their understanding and willingness to negotiate when it comes to borrowing. Transparency is a Must You're not going to a lender to play games, nor to have to go through undue detective work. The lender should make all of their terms and requirements clear and easily accessible, from loan amount caps to mileage or age restrictions - all reasonably priced compared to nearby competitors. A good lender will offer educational materials on the lending process and offer sound, unbiased financial advice. Avoid lenders who seem overly eager about making an agreement or who seem like they are withholding information from you. Everything should be laid out in the open in a relationship of mutual trust. With these simple tips in mind, you'll secure that bad credit auto loan in no time - and you won't regret doing so for years afterward.