A full “family” of affordable options is set to arrive in 2025
In a nutshell: For those waiting on the sidelines for an affordable electric vehicle option, General Motors has some good news:
The Chevy Bolt EV is coming back, possibly with an even cheaper model as an option. Moreover, the car is going to be profitable for the automaker.GM’s Bolt EV comeback
GM President Mark Reuss recently stated that the 2026 Bolt will be a money-maker for the company. He said it would offer the same value as the original Bolt but with more features. Think about that.”GM’s Bolt EV comeback
GM initially planned to axe the Bolt last year; however, it backtracked and confirmed its resurrection as an Ultium-based EV for 2025. Now, in a significant strategic shift, the automaker has revealed to investors that it will be moving away from the ‘Ultium’ branding for its batteries. Moreover, GM is abandoning its one-size-fits-all cell strategy. Instead, the company will embrace a wider range of battery chemistries and formats across its upcoming EV lineup.
“The new Bolt will hit dealerships late next year as a 2026 model. While GM has not set the final pricing, Reuss indicated that it will cost ‘slightly’ more than the outgoing 2023 Bolt EUV crossover’s starting price of $28,795.” That’s not bad at all for an EV with over 200 miles of range.
“However, the approachable cost isn’t the only factor that might intrigue EV buyers.” GM is promising faster charging capabilities on the next-gen Bolt, addressing a sore point in current models, which max out at a relatively sluggish 55kW rate. Reuss kept the specifics under wraps, simply stating it will have “faster charging” as part of “the latest technology.”GM’s Bolt EV comeback
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The reborn Bolt won’t be a one-trick affordable model either. Reuss revealed it will be part of a full “family” of Bolt models, including an even cheaper variant for ultra-budget-conscious buyers.
Reuss seemed to take a subtle jab at Ford’s newly formed “skunkworks” EV team too, boasting “We don’t need to create a skunkworks to create affordable electric vehicles. We know how to do this.”
The 2026 Bolt revival is significant because it represents GM finally cracking the code for making mass-market EVs profitable. GM has struggled for years with low production volumes and high upfront investments.
The automaker is on pace to build 200,000 EVs in North America this year as it scales up next-gen models like the Bolt and the new Equinox EV.
In summary, the Bolt EV returns next year in some very exciting models teased. “One can hope that these innovations help GM regain its footing in the growing electric car market. The new Bolt models will likely attract loyal customers and new buyers seeking reliable electric options. As the automotive landscape evolves, General Motors is reinforcing its commitment to electric mobility and sustainability by reviving the Bolt brand.”