Chevrolet Revives the Bolt: A Test Drive of the 2027 Model

The Chevrolet Bolt, first introduced in 2017, made a significant impact as an affordable electric vehicle (EV) offering over 200 miles of range at a price point well below that of a Tesla Model S. Despite its initial success, the Bolt faced challenges, including a massive $1.8 billion recall to replace battery packs in over 142,000 vehicles and delays in its midlife refresh due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The vehicle underwent several updates, such as price reductions, new seating, infotainment upgrades, and the addition of the Super Cruise driver assist feature. A larger version, the Bolt EUV, was also introduced.

Despite these improvements, General Motors (GM) decided to discontinue the Bolt in 2022, as the company aimed to repurpose its Orion Township assembly plant for the production of full-size electric pickups like the Silverado EV. This decision was met with disappointment from Bolt enthusiasts, leading to a reversal of plans. At the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show, GM CEO Mary Barra announced the Bolt's return, featuring a new lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, replacing the previous lithium-ion pack.

The 2027 Bolt has been reintroduced with several enhancements, including faster charging capabilities, a modern infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS, and a drive motor borrowed from the Equinox EV. The new model is available in a sportier RS trim alongside the LT version, offering a range of 262 miles (422 km) and the ability to DC fast-charge at up to 150 kW using a NACS socket.

During a test drive in Westlake Village, California, the 2027 Bolt demonstrated improved performance despite a reduction in torque. The vehicle's electric motor, which drives the front wheels, produces 210 horsepower, a slight increase from previous models. Although the torque output is lower at 169 lb-ft compared to the earlier 266 lb-ft, the Bolt's final drive ratio of 11:59:1 compensates for this, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than its predecessor. The new motor's ability to spin faster ensures adequate acceleration even at highway speeds.

Efficiency has also improved, with the Bolt achieving approximately 4 miles per kilowatt-hour (15.5 kWh/100 km) during the test drive, which included challenging terrain and was mostly conducted in Sport mode. This efficiency aligns with the estimated 262-mile range from the 65 kWh battery pack.

One of the Bolt's previous shortcomings was its slow DC charging speed, taking nearly an hour to reach 80 percent capacity at a maximum of 55 kW. The 2027 model addresses this with significantly faster charging. Testing with a Tesla V4 Supercharger showed that charging from 19 to 80 percent took just 25 minutes, adding an indicated 211 miles of range. The charging curve is flatter, starting at approximately 110 kW and gradually decreasing.

The 2027 Bolt, available only in the EUV body style, offers a compelling option for those seeking an EV in the $30,000–$40,000 range. However, prospective buyers should act quickly, as production is limited to the next year. Despite its improvements, the Bolt lacks features like a powered tailgate, but it remains a strong contender in the EV market.