Chevrolet Bolt's Return: Last Chance to Buy? A Deep Dive
The automotive landscape is shifting rapidly towards electric vehicles (EVs), and Chevrolet is making waves with its new Equinox EV. While the Equinox EV aims for affordability with a starting price around $35,000, those seeking a more budget-friendly option, or a smaller footprint, have reason to rejoice. The Chevrolet Bolt is back in dealerships, offering a compelling entry point into the EV world. But is this a genuine second chance, or a limited-time opportunity to grab a beloved EV before it disappears again? This article delves into the Bolt’s history, its comeback, and what potential buyers need to know.
A Brief History of the Chevrolet Bolt: GM’s Pioneering EV
The Bolt wasn’t GM’s first foray into electric mobility – that honor belongs to the experimental EV1 and the compliance-focused Spark EV. However, it was the first modern electric vehicle produced by GM at scale. Here at GearTech, we’ve always been fans. The Bolt distinguished itself by delivering over 200 miles of range at a reasonable price point, predating the widespread availability of vehicles like the Tesla Model 3. It consistently improved in efficiency and offered a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience.
Despite its success with consumers, GM’s internal perspective on the Bolt was more complex. The vehicle operated at a loss for GM, even before the significant costs associated with the battery recall. This recall, triggered by improperly folded tabs within the battery cells that posed a fire risk, cost the company a staggering $1.8 billion and damaged its reputation alongside battery partner LG.
Why Was the Bolt Discontinued in the First Place?
The Bolt’s discontinuation in April 2023 wasn’t solely due to the recall. It also predated GM’s full commitment to its Ultium battery platform. As GM geared up to produce a new generation of EVs, including the Equinox EV, prioritizing production of more profitable vehicles became crucial. Ironically, the announcement of the Bolt’s demise led to a surge in sales, making it GM’s best-selling EV in its final year.
The Fan Outcry and the Bolt’s Unexpected Return
The reaction from Bolt enthusiasts was immediate and passionate. The outcry resonated with GM leadership, and in July 2025, CEO Mary Barra announced the Bolt’s return. However, the comeback comes with a caveat: it will only be available in the Bolt EUV body style. Fans of the original hatchback are unfortunately out of luck.
Re-Engineering the Bolt for the Ultium Era
Reviving the Bolt wasn’t a simple task. The transition to the Ultium battery pack required significant re-engineering. The new cells, modules, and electronics had to fit within the existing physical constraints and mounting points of the original Bolt. This presented a considerable engineering challenge.
Currently, GM is importing LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) cells from CATL in China, incurring substantial tariffs. While GM plans to establish its own LFP production facility, it’s not expected to be operational until sometime next year. This reliance on imported cells adds to the vehicle’s cost.
Pricing and Trim Levels: What Does the New Bolt Cost?
In October, Chevrolet revealed the pricing for the 2027 Bolt:
- Bolt LT: $28,995 (plus a $1,395 delivery charge)
- Bolt RS: $32,995
Chevrolet has indicated plans for a more stripped-down model with a starting price below $28,000, but the timing of its release remains uncertain. It’s important to note that these prices are higher than the Bolt EUV reviewed in late 2022, particularly when considering different trim levels. Furthermore, the new Bolt lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Performance Considerations: Torque and Driving Experience
Another notable change is the reduction in torque compared to previous Bolt models. The 2027 Bolt produces significantly less torque, which could alter the driving experience. The instant torque delivery is a hallmark of EVs, and a reduction in this area may impact the vehicle’s responsiveness and overall feel.
Range and Charging: Improvements in Key Areas
Despite the changes, the new Bolt offers improvements in key areas. The EPA-estimated range is 262 miles (422 km), a slight increase over the 249 miles (398 km) offered by the previous Bolt EUV. This provides greater confidence for longer journeys.
Perhaps the most significant upgrade is the fast charging capability. The new Bolt supports charging rates of up to 150 kW, a substantial improvement over the previous model’s 55 kW limit. This translates to a 10-80% charge in as little as 26 minutes, significantly reducing charging times at public stations.
Availability and the “Limited Time” Clause
Chevrolet states that the new Bolt is currently available in dealerships in both LT and RS trims. However, the company’s inventory checker doesn’t yet recognize 2027 models, making it difficult to confirm availability in specific locations. Crucially, Chevrolet has emphasized that the Bolt’s return is “for a limited time only.” The exact duration of this limited run remains unspecified, leaving potential buyers wondering how many units will ultimately be produced.
Is the Chevrolet Bolt's Return a Last Chance?
The Chevrolet Bolt’s return is a welcome surprise for EV enthusiasts. While the price point is slightly higher than before, and some features have been removed, the improved range and significantly faster charging capabilities make it a compelling option. However, the “limited time only” designation adds a sense of urgency. If you’re considering a Bolt, now is the time to act. The combination of affordability, practicality, and a growing charging infrastructure makes the Bolt a strong contender in the competitive EV market. Keep an eye on local dealership inventories and be prepared to move quickly if you want to secure one of these resurrected EVs.
Key Takeaways for Potential Buyers
- Range: 262 miles (EPA estimated)
- Fast Charging: Up to 150 kW
- Pricing: Starting at $28,995 (plus delivery)
- Availability: Limited time only – check local dealerships
- Body Style: Only available as the Bolt EUV
The Chevrolet Bolt’s story is a testament to the power of consumer demand and the evolving nature of the EV market. Whether this is truly a last chance to buy remains to be seen, but for now, the Bolt offers a valuable and accessible entry point into the world of electric driving.