Chevy is Bringing Back its Once Top-Selling Bolt for 2027

Chevrolet is bringing back one of its most popular EVs after changing its problematic battery system. The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt will be available early in 2026. As we reported previously, production of the popular Bolt and Bolt EUV were paused because of potential fire risks, but now the Bolt will use an X76 drive unit that was designed from the ground up as part of the Ultium battery platform. GM has dropped the Ultium name but still uses the EV platform. The new Bolt will have a range of 255 miles which is the most range in an EV under $30,000. It will begin shipping to customers early next year and will be a limited run model.

“The Chevrolet Bolt was the industry’s first affordable mass-market, long-range EV and it commanded one of GM’s most loyal customer bases thanks to its price, versatility and practicality,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Global Chevrolet.

“After production ended, we heard our customer’s feedback and their love for this product. So the Bolt is coming back—by popular demand and better than ever—for a limited time. This is a celebration of what Bolt means to our customers and to Chevrolet. It’s your chance to own a popular EV that’s affordable. So, if you’ve been waiting, this is the moment. Don’t miss it,” Bell said.

2027 Chevrolet Bolt

• Larger 11.3-inch-diagonal infotainment screen
• GM-estimated 255 miles of range
• Peak charging speed of 150 kW+
• Charges 10% to 80% in 26 minutes with public DC fast charging
• First Chevrolet with NACS charging port
• Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) bi-directional capability

The 2027 Bolt will be available in two trim levels. The launch edition Bolt LT model will sell for $29,990 including $1,395 in destination charges. Later in the model year, a more affordable LT will be available for $28,995 including $1,395 destination. The 2027 Chevy Bolt is available in Chevy’s sporty RS trim, with unique grille badging, high-gloss black wheels and roof rails. Bolt RS is available in an exclusive color combination of Atomic Yellow exterior with red interior accent stitching.

The new Bolt looks more like the EUV version of the previous Bolt with more interior room. Chevrolet says it expects the redesigned Bolt and the larger Equinox EV are expected to account for most of Chevrolet’s 2026 EV volume.

“The Chevy Bolt adds to our already successful EV portfolio,” Bell said. “With Equinox EV as America’s most affordable EV with more than 315 miles of EPA-estimated range10, and Bolt offering the most range in an EV under $30,000, Chevy is leading the way on EV affordability without compromise.”

“Fans love the space and practicality of the Bolt’s roomy hatchback layout,” said Phil Zak, executive design director, Global Chevrolet. “We took feedback directly from customers to make sure the 2027 Bolt delivers improved technology and expanded features without compromising space, usability or style.”

There is no question that the Bolt was a popular vehicle. It was the first longer-range, mass-produced EV available at a truly affordable MSRP.  It helped Chevrolet draw new buyers to the brand. The only unfortunate thing about the timing of the Bolt’s return is that the federal tax rebates have been eliminated. No one can predict how seriously the loss of the rebates will affect EV sales but GM is working to replace the lost incentive. 

What is the X76 EV Technology

According to GM, “The X76 drive unit was designed from the ground up to maximize driving range and deliver improved efficiency in cost and energy usage. The permanent-magnet motor uses minimal rare-earth materials for improved costs. Segmented magnets reduce heat build-up and energy loss, and silicon carbide inverter materials minimize energy loss between the battery and drive unit.”

The 2027 Bolt is the 10th GM EV model to use the X76 drive unit. By scaling the battery power to the size of different vehicles allows GM to pass the cost savings on to the customer. Supposedly, the 2027 Bolt will use the latest, most advanced X76 technology. The Bolt will also use regenerative braking to conserve power.

2027 Bolt is Loaded with Technology

General Motors leads the way in offering popular technology in its lower priced models. GM understands that technology is important to the younger, less affluent drivers who are looking for the most bells and whistles at a lower price. 

The 2027 Bolt Features:

• 11" driver information center  
• 11.3" center infotainment screen
• Available Hands-free Super Cruise
• Google built-in
• OnStar Connectivity

With Google Maps embedded with vehicle systems, your drive route automatically includes information on battery range. On longer drives, Google Maps will give you smarter routes and charging recommendations, factoring in real-time charging station status and range estimates based on driving style. If DC fast charging is available along your route, automatic battery preconditioning gives your battery a warm-up for optimal charging performance. The 2027 Bolt can take advantage of DC public fast charging up to 150 kW, charging more than 2.5x faster than the previous Bolt.

With “Hey Google” voice assistance, you can control cabin temperature, seat warmers, voice-to-text, hands-free phone calls and more, all without taking your hands off the steering wheel. You can even integrate smart-home devices, using voice commands to open your garage door as you’re arriving home.

The 2027 Bolt is also vehicle-to-home (V2H) bidirectionally capable. That means the Bolt can provide power to a home during a power outage. However, the house has to have a GM Energy Home System already installed. 

When the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt Will be Available

The 2027 Chevy Bolt will be built at GM’s Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas. It should be available at Chevrolet dealers in the first quarter of 2026.

Chevrolet Photo

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

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