.@chevrolet Bolt estimated range of 238 miles per charge & have lower lifecycle costs than comparable gas-fueled vehicles #mnleg#greenfleetpic.twitter.com/OmPOP6Dvmw

— MN Dept of Admin (@ADMN_Minnesota) June 29, 2017

The State of Minnesota is adding the first Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles available in the region to its fleet and will help the state reduce its carbon emissions. The electric vehicles get an estimated range of 238 miles per charge and have lower lifecycle costs than comparable gas-fueled vehicles.

The Department of Administration partnered with the University of Minnesota, the Metropolitan Council, Ramsey County, and the City of Minneapolis to purchase 22 Bolt EVs. The partnership allowed for a volume purchase that reduced vehicle costs.

State officials expect lower operating costs will allow it to save $5,000 in operating expenses over the life of the vehicle compared to similar gasoline-fueled vehicles, KARE reported.

In support of increased electric vehicle usage, the state has installed 69 charging stations throughout the capitol complex. The purchase was coordinated by the Department of Administration’s Fleet Services Division and the Office of Enterprise Sustainability as part of the state’s broader strategy to reduce the carbon footprint of state government operations.

In addition to the Department of Administration, state agencies that will also use the Bolts include the Minnesota Departments of Education, Health, Pollution Control Agency, and Transportation.