The Chevy Bolt EV is back in the US, and it’s packing surprises. After being shelved somewhere around 2023, General Motors has officially revived this electric gem for the 2027 model year. Let’s dig into how it’s changed and why it matters.
A Comeback by Popular Demand
When the Bolt was discontinued in 2023, lots of fans were disappointed. GM listened to those voices, and now, the Bolt returns for a limited run, joining the Equinox EV in Chevy’s arsenal of affordable electric rides. It’s obvious Chevy is being cautious – they’re dipping a toe back in rather than going all-in. Still, if demand surprises them, they might stretch the limited run. For now, it’s a measured return of an iconic electric car.
Under the Hood – What’s New (And Better)
Though the general silhouette is familiar, almost everything beneath the skin has been improved. First off, the car battery. The 2027 Bolt uses a 65 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) pack, which is cheaper, safer, and more durable than many traditional packs. GM’s range estimate is 255 miles, seemingly enough to quiet the most range-anxiety critics.
Charging gets a big upgrade. The Bolt now accepts up to 150 kW DC fast charging, letting it go from 10% to 80% in roughly 26 minutes. Another smart update is the fact that it’s now using the North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging port, which means compatibility with Tesla’s Supercharger network, no adapters needed. Tesla models are not the only ones getting the juice!
Smarter, Sleeker, and Just the Right Amount of Speed
The motor is rated at 210 horsepower. It’s not a wild performance machine, but it’s responsive enough for daily city driving. Inside, the Bolt gets new screens – an 11.3-inch infotainment display with Google Built-In, plus an 11.0-inch digital instrument cluster. On the other hand, GM drops support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (yes, really). Instead, it leans on Google apps and services.
Also returning is the optional Super Cruise with automatic lane change, which is a nice touch at this price point. In short, it’s the same accessible formula, but dramatically modernized. Think of it as your favorite compact EV with a serious tech glow-up.
A Price Tag That Shocks – In a Good Way
The big headline here is price. The Bolt’s base LT trim will start at $28,995, including destination fees. Chevy will also offer a slightly higher trim starting at $29,990. That pricing puts the Bolt back into the rare EV under $30K club and makes it arguably the most affordable new electric vehicle in the US market.
The EV Market Just Got a Whole Lot Friendlier
From a competitive standpoint, GM is clearly staking out a value territory. This move pressures Tesla and others aiming for the lower end of the EV market. But what does it mean for the rest of us mere mortals?
Well, for buyers who’ve been priced out of EVs, the Bolt’s return is obviously welcome news. Switching to LFP chemistry and faster charging makes it less of a cheap compromise and more of a real-world option. In the broader market, this may encourage more automakers to revisit mid-level, high-value EVs, not just ultra-luxury or super-premium options.
A Comeback Story Worth Keeping an Eye On
All things point to the Chevy Bolt EV’s comeback being cautious but meaningful. In early 2026, the first units will reach buyers, and they may sell out faster than many anticipate. If reception is strong, Chevy might stretch beyond its original limited run. But if demand stays lukewarm, this could remain a niche play. Time will only tell whether the Bolt could re-establish itself in the hearts of budget EV buyers.
