Chevrolet’s Bolt is revving up its best sales performance ever, just in time for an upcoming makeover. Responding to the tremendous popularity of the compact electric vehicles, General Motors plans to release a heavily updated Bolt in 2025, with a twist—the larger Bolt EUV will be the sole star on the menu.
GM officials, in conversation with InsideEVs, confirmed that the next-generation Bolt will be exclusively EUV, citing the overwhelming preference for the crossover model over its smaller sibling, the Bolt EV. Despite the cancellation looming over the Bolt, GM is optimistic about the enthusiasm generated by the upcoming Bolt EUV.
While GM doesn’t disclose the specific sales figures for each model, industry observers estimate that the Bolt EUV is outselling the Bolt EV by a ratio of about two to one. Between January and September, Chevrolet recorded sales of 49,494 units for both models combined, marking a staggering 125% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
The Bolt twins have emerged as GM’s most popular electric vehicles, outshining other models built on the Ultium platform, such as the Cadillac Lyriq, Hummer EV, and Silverado EV. The Inflation Reduction Act’s electric tax credits further fueled demand, with many Bolt models finding homes in the $20,000 range after factoring in federal and state tax credits and dealer discounts. This pricing strategy, coupled with a respectable range of 259-247 miles, depending on the size, has attracted scores of buyers.
Despite the Bolt’s success, it’s showing its age, with the smaller model debuting in 2016 and the EUV joining in 2022. The Bolt’s limitations, such as 55 kW DC fast charging capability and an older battery setup deemed unprofitable, led to its initial cancellation earlier this year. However, GM reversed the decision, citing the car’s popularity, and announced that the next Bolt would leverage the Ultium batteries and architecture, ensuring profitability.
GM officials, including CEO Mary Barra, clarified that the next Bolt won’t be a complete redesign but an updated version of the current car. The improvements include lower-cost LFP batteries, faster charging, advanced active safety features, and other significant upgrades. The plan is to maintain the next-gen Bolt’s pricing at a similar level, addressing a critical barrier to wider EV adoption. With the Bolt EUV’s successful reception among crossover enthusiasts, GM’s decision seems poised to yield another major hit if it can deliver on its promise of an affordable price tag.
