New-generation Chevrolet Bolt is cleared for sale

Chevrolet’s subcompact EV, the Bolt, has had an up-and-down history since its first sales in California in 2017, going through a series of recalls because of issues with batteries supplied by development partner LG. The Bolt was taken out of production in 2022 when its assembly plant in Orion Township, Michigan, was repurposed to produce electric Equinox SUVs and Silverado pickups. So it was something of a surprise when investors learned this week that General Motors is planning a new-generation version of the Bolt.

Timing of the new Bolt’s rollout has yet to be determined. Its powertrain and energy supply will be based on new-generation GM Ultium batteries, which are the central ingredient for current Chevrolet EVs. GM chairwoman Mary Barra promised an “accelerated timeline” for getting the new-generation Bolt into the showrooms.