Chevrolet Bolt Makes Long-Awaited Return with Upgraded Features
In a move that is expected to boost the electric vehicle (EV) market, Chevrolet has announced the return of its popular Bolt model for a "limited run." The 2027 Bolt, which was discontinued in 2023, will be available at dealerships starting from the first quarter of 2026.
According to Chevy officials, the new Bolt will feature several key upgrades, including an estimated range of 255 miles and peak charging speeds of up to 150kW. This represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, which often faced criticism for slow charging times. The updated Bolt can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 26 minutes, thanks to its new LFP battery.
"We're excited to bring back the Bolt with these exciting upgrades," said a spokesperson for Chevrolet. "Our goal is to provide customers with an affordable and reliable EV option that meets their needs."
The 2027 Bolt will be available in two trim levels: Comfort, starting at $29,990, and LT base model, priced from $28,995. The latter offers an even more affordable entry point into the world of EVs.
One of the notable features of the new Bolt is its compatibility with both DC fast charging and Tesla's Supercharger network, thanks to a native NACS port. This will provide owners with greater flexibility when it comes to charging on long trips.
In addition to its upgraded battery and charging capabilities, the 2027 Bolt also boasts an 11-inch driver display and an 11.3-inch infotainment display that can handle navigation, music, and entertainment with Google built-in.
However, some industry experts have noted that the absence of Apple CarPlay compatibility may be a drawback for some potential buyers.
"The lack of Apple CarPlay is a notable omission," said David Reichmuth, senior vehicles analyst at the Union of Concerned Scientists. "But overall, this is a significant upgrade to the Bolt lineup and will likely appeal to many EV enthusiasts."
The return of the Chevrolet Bolt marks an important milestone in the ongoing shift towards electric vehicles. As governments around the world set increasingly stringent emissions targets, manufacturers are under pressure to deliver affordable and reliable EV options.
With its upgraded features and competitive pricing, the 2027 Bolt is poised to make a significant impact on the market. However, it remains to be seen how long this "limited run" will last, and whether Chevrolet will ultimately decide to discontinue the model once again.
Background:
The original Chevrolet Bolt was first introduced in 2016 as one of the most affordable EVs available at the time. It quickly gained a loyal following among environmentally conscious consumers and those looking for an affordable alternative to gas-guzzling vehicles. However, its slow charging times and limited range led to criticism from some quarters.
Additional Perspectives:
Industry experts have welcomed the return of the Bolt, citing its potential to boost EV adoption rates. "The Bolt is a great example of how manufacturers can take existing technology and improve it," said Reichmuth. "We're seeing more and more consumers turn to electric vehicles as their primary mode of transportation."
Current Status:
The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt will be available at dealerships starting from the first quarter of 2026, with prices starting at $28,995 for the LT base model. With its upgraded features and competitive pricing, this "limited run" is likely to generate significant interest among EV enthusiasts.
Next Developments:
As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Chevrolet responds to changing consumer demands. Will the company ultimately decide to discontinue the Bolt once again, or will it become a permanent fixture in its lineup? Only time will tell.
*Reporting by Engadget.*