Few products attract a devoted following like this one. Even though it has been absent for some time, loyal fans eagerly anticipate its return, displaying a level of dedication that borders on obsession. Fortunately, they are in luck as it is making a limited-time comeback.
No, it’s not the McRib; it’s the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt.
Similar to how the sporadic availability of the McRib can be attributed to low pork prices, there are a few theories behind the return of the Bolt.
With GM’s electric vehicle parts inventory expanding since the previous Bolt’s debut in 2016, the financial feasibility of the new model has improved. Additionally, the strong support of Bolt owners, some of whom are GM insiders, has influenced the decision to bring back the model. The actual reasons likely lie somewhere in between.
When GM identified an 18-month production gap at their Kansas factory, they gave the green light for the revival of the compact EV.
Unlike the McRib, the new Bolt does not strictly adhere to the original formula. However, there are enough familiar elements in the new model to satisfy its dedicated fan base. DailyTech had the opportunity to closely examine and test drive the upcoming Chevy Bolt during a recent press event sponsored by GM.
Something old, something new
GM utilized the chassis and body panels from the Bolt EUV, a slightly larger version of the previous Bolt, and made modifications to the front and rear components. While some adjustments were made to the suspension and front chassis, the basic structure remains largely unchanged.
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Some of the interior plastics have been refined, although there are still enough hard surfaces to indicate that this is the most affordable EV currently available in the U.S. Starting at $28,995, including destination fees, the Bolt offers good value considering the current state of the automotive market. However, prices can exceed $40,000 for fully loaded models, dampening some of the initial excitement.
Notable omissions include CarPlay and Android Auto, features that are now absent from all new GM vehicles. While the removal of these features may disappoint current owners accustomed to screencasting, the addition of Spotify and Apple Music apps aims to soften the blow. However, the native apps were found to be less responsive compared to their CarPlay equivalents.
Updates to the headlights and taillights aside, the standout features of the new Bolt are the battery, motor, and Super Cruise.
The new 65 kilowatt-hour battery marks GM’s first use of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) technology. Power flows from this battery through a new management system to an electric motor borrowed from the front-wheel drive Chevy Equinox.
The shift to LFP cells is significant as it eliminates the need for critical minerals like cobalt and nickel, reducing costs. Additionally, LFP batteries do not degrade when repeatedly charged to 100%. Previous Bolt owners were advised to limit daily charging to 80%, reserving the remaining capacity for long trips. The new Bolt maintains consistent power delivery even at lower battery levels.
With 200 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque, the new motor in the Bolt offers spirited performance for city driving. The improved efficiency of the motor allows for shorter gearing, resulting in slightly higher torque at the wheels and a quicker acceleration from zero to 60 mph compared to the previous model.
Longer range
Thanks to the new motor and improved power electronics, Chevy was able to extend the Bolt’s range by an additional 15 miles. Despite the smaller battery size, the Bolt can now travel a total of 262 miles on a single charge for the LT model (the RS model is expected to offer 255 miles).
The enhanced power electronics address a previous concern with the Bolt’s charging speed. While the previous model provided adequate range for road trips, its charging speed at 50 kW left much to be desired. The new Bolt is capable of charging from 10% to 90% in just 24 minutes, with the 400-volt pack supporting up to 150 kW charging speeds.
The combination of faster charging and Super Cruise technology positions the Bolt as a viable option for long-distance travel or daily commuting. The spacious and comfortable seating, along with Super Cruise’s hands-free capabilities, enhance the overall driving experience.
Super Cruiser
As Chevy emphasizes, the Bolt is currently the most affordable hands-free driving option on the market, albeit with specific requirements – “LT + Comfort + Evotex + Tech + Super Cruise.” However, affordability is subjective, and this package will cost you $35,655.
During a test of Super Cruise, the Level 2 ADAS system demonstrated effective lane-changing capabilities on a 14-mile route near Los Angeles. The system seamlessly navigated through traffic, adjusting lanes as needed without requiring constant monitoring. Super Cruise provides alerts for upcoming lane changes, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Super Cruise is limited to pre-mapped routes such as freeways and certain two-lane highways. The system prepares for upcoming exits or interchanges by guiding the vehicle into the appropriate lane before prompting the driver to take control. While the system encountered challenges with fast-moving vehicles in adjacent lanes during the test drive, it generally performed well, especially when changing lanes to pass slower traffic.
