The bolt that disappeared quietly
Will It Be Re-launched in 2025?
It Will Likely Be the Cheapest in Its Segment
The Chevrolet Bolt, originally introduced by General Motors as a plug-in hybrid in 2010, later evolved into an all-electric model with the launch of the Bolt EV in 2016. Its success in the U.S. led to a refreshed version in 2021 and the introduction of the Bolt EUV, an SUV variant. Together, they formed Chevrolet’s electric lineup.
However, despite the initial enthusiasm, the Bolt EV saw a quick model year change after just six months. With few updates and a price increase of $1,460, the model struggled to attract buyers. The Bolt EV and EUV were eventually discontinued in crucial markets like the U.S. and South Korea.
Entering the Budget Vehicle Market
It Will Become a Profitable Model
Though it seemed like the Bolt’s days were numbered, General Motors has announced plans to bring the Chevrolet Bolt back in 2026 as part of its strategy to enter the budget EV market. According to GM President Mark Reuss, the new Bolt will remain the least expensive electric vehicle on the market, though it will be “slightly more expensive than the 2023 Bolt.”
At GM’s 2024 investor conference, Reuss hinted that the 2026 Bolt would offer even greater value than the original model while also aiming to achieve profitability—a challenge the earlier versions faced. He noted that the Bolt EV and EUV were built on outdated platforms and had been unprofitable for some time, but GM intends to resolve those issues with the next-generation model.
Multiple Models Will Exist
Will Both Hatchback and SUV Be Launched?
Mark Reuss did not specify whether the new Bolt model would be an EV or an EUV, but he revealed that the Bolt would evolve into a lineup offering more affordable options. This suggests that GM might release both the existing hatchback EV and the EUV crossover simultaneously or potentially introduce an entirely new model as part of the expanded lineup.
In the former case, the Bolt EV and EUV are equipped with an electric motor that generates 201 horsepower 36.70 kg.m and a 65 kWh battery. Since the low charging speed was an issue, this will likely be improved, and the electric powertrain itself will be upgraded. The battery charging system has also been enhanced so it can be charged quickly, and it is reported that lithium iron phosphate battery cell technology will be utilized.
Expected to Be Priced Around $30,000
It Will Compete Against Chinese EVs
As previously noted, the new Bolt series will be launched at competitive prices. General Motors President Mark Reuss stated, “We already know how to make affordable electric vehicles,” indicating that the upcoming models will be offered at similarly low prices. Given that the Bolt was priced at around $30,000 in 2023, the new series will likely be in a comparable price range.
The Bolt series is also expected to be produced at the Fairfax plant in Kansas, US, and the interior design will be similar to that of the Trax crossover. General Motors is expected to introduce the Bolt series in mid or late 2025. These vehicles, which will be built on the Ultium platform, the General Motor’s own dedicated electric vehicle platform, will have the appeal of faster charging speeds and lower production costs. They are expected to use these as weapons to counter the recent offensive of low-cost Chinese electric vehicles.
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