Chevrolet Bolt EV: The Affordable Electric SUV Returns

The electric vehicle market is gaining momentum, and Chevrolet is re-entering the affordable EV space with the revived Bolt EV. After a hiatus, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt is slated for release in early 2026, aiming to deliver a practical and budget-friendly electric option for commuters and families.

Release Date and Pricing

Chevrolet has confirmed the 2026 Chevy Bolt release date as the first quarter of 2026, with vehicles expected to arrive in dealerships as early as spring. Production will ramp up at GM’s Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas, throughout 2025 to ensure a smooth rollout. Chevrolet-Buff

The 2027 Bolt will be available in two trims:

• LT Trim: Starting MSRP of $28,595 (including destination freight charge), increasing to $28,995 later in the model year.
• RS Trim: Starting MSRP of $31,600.

These prices position the Bolt as one of the most affordable EVs on the market, potentially undercuting rivals like the Nissan Leaf or Hyundai Kona Electric. Chevrolet-Buff

Performance and Charging

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt is powered by a 210-hp electric motor that drives the front wheels. While a slight increase of 10 hp over the previous Bolt EUV, the most significant improvements come in charging speed and range. SlashGear

GM estimates the 2027 Bolt will be able to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 25 minutes using DC fast charging. The EPA-estimated range is 262 miles. SlashGear

Key Features and Technology

The 2027 Bolt incorporates several updates for modern EV buyers. A key change is the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging port, allowing access to Tesla Supercharger locations. SlashGear

Inside, the Bolt features a larger 11.3-inch infotainment screen powered by Google, and an improved interior. Standard features include:

• 17-inch silver aluminum alloy wheels
• All-season tires
• Black cloth seats with gray and blue stitching
• Single-zone automatic climate control
• Adaptive cruise control
• Keyless open and start
• Remote start
• Lane keep assist
• Automatic emergency braking
• Pedestrian alerts

Buyers can choose from six exterior colors, including four metallic options, all at no extra cost. SlashGear

Battery Technology

The 2027 Bolt utilizes a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, a departure from the previous lithium-ion battery. Chevrolet recommends regularly charging the LFP battery to 100% to optimize charging speed. SlashGear

Production and Future Outlook

While the Bolt is poised to be the least expensive electric SUV available in the U.S. As of March 2026, SlashGear production at the Kansas plant is scheduled to be reconfigured in mid-2027 to produce the next generation of the gas-powered Chevrolet Equinox. This timeline suggests a limited production window for the current Bolt model.

The revival of the Chevy Bolt signifies GM’s commitment to offering affordable electric vehicles, and its success will likely depend on maintaining competitive pricing and addressing consumer demand for accessible EV options. GM Authority