2027 Chevrolet Bolt Returns as America’s Cheapest New EV

Chevrolet is reviving the Bolt nameplate with a bold new strategy: make it the most affordable long-range EV in the U.S. The 2027 Bolt will roll out in early 2026 with a starting price of $29,990 (including destination), and a base LT trim following later at $28,995. With those numbers, the new Bolt will undercut many electric rivals while offering competitive range and modern charging tech.

Pricing That Disrupts the Market

The launch edition of the 2027 Bolt debuts at $29,990, and the base LT trim follows shortly for $28,995. These prices place it just below the 2026 Nissan Leaf, which starts at $29,990, before destination—giving Chevrolet a strong claim to America’s cheapest long-range EV.

The Bolt’s new pricing comes at a critical time: with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit expired, affordability is now a strategic differentiator. For buyers who missed that credit, the Bolt offers a compelling alternative.

Range, Charging, and Technology

Despite the aggressive pricing, the new Bolt does not skimp on performance. Chevrolet estimates 255 miles of range, slightly higher than the outgoing Bolt EUV’s 247-mile rating. Charging gets a major upgrade: 150 kW peak via a Tesla-style NACS port, allowing faster fills compared to the previous model’s 55 kW limit.

GM also promises 10% to 80% recharge in 26 minutes under favorable conditions. The battery itself is a 65 kWh LFP pack, built using a cell-to-pack architecture (no intermediate modules), which helps reduce weight and cost.

Powertrain, Trim Options, and Design

The LT version outputs 210 horsepower. Chevrolet is also reviving the RS trim for a more aggressive styling and driving experience.

While the new Bolt carries familiar proportions and shares some structural components with the older Bolt EUV, over 50% of parts are new or re-engineered—including a new electrical architecture, brake modules, and Chevrolet’s X76 electric drive unit, also used in the Equinox EV.

Interior and Infotainment Features

Inside, the Bolt features an 11-inch digital gauge cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in. Like other new GM EVs, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not supported. Instead, users can download apps from a built-in storefront and stream media directly, such as Spotify or HBO Max.

Google Maps and route planning are integrated, displaying charging stops along the way. Meanwhile, Super Cruise (GM’s hands-free driver assist) remains optional. A standout feature is vehicle-to-home (V2H) bidirectional charging, allowing the Bolt to power a home in outages—if the proper hardware and grid setup is in place.

Strategic Timing and Industry Context

The Bolt name was discontinued in 2023 amid underwhelming sales. But mounting demand for affordable EVs and public backlash likely pushed GM to revive it. The new model arrives at a time when many automakers are lowering prices or expanding incentives.

Competitors are already moving aggressively. The 2026 Nissan Leaf offers long range and competitive pricing. Rivian, Ford, and GM itself are exploring affordable EV trucks as well. Tesla’s pursuit of a $25,000 EV has stalled, making the new Bolt’s price positioning even more significant.

GM’s decision to produce the Bolt in Kansas City and invest in domestic battery sourcing shows it’s preparing for scale. If the Bolt can sell in volume while maintaining margins, it could alter expectations for what “entry-level EV” really means.

What It All Means

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt is about more than nostalgia—it’s a calculated move to reset the EV pricing landscape. Its aggressive pricing, strong range, upgraded charging, and modern features make it a serious contender in a crowded field. If Chevrolet executes well, this reborn Bolt could redefine what buyers expect from affordable electric vehicles in America’s next decade.

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