The 2023 Chevy Bolt EV is without doubt one of the least-expensive new electrical vehicles in the marketplace. It’s additionally on its final legs.
The Bolt carries a $26,500 beginning worth and is eligible for a $7,500 federal tax rebate (relying on family revenue). It’s accessible because the subcompact Bolt electrical car (EV) and a barely bigger Bolt EUV. However Chevrolet has introduced plans to finish Bolt manufacturing on the finish of 2023.
Profitable, However an Growing old Know-how
The Bolt has been the best-selling non-Tesla EV in America by way of a lot of 2023. However GM plans to finish it due to its battery expertise.
The Bolt makes use of an older battery chemistry that no different GM EV makes use of.
Most GM electrical vehicles now use the automaker’s Ultium platform. Ultium is what automotive engineers name a “skateboard platform.” It places all battery, motor, suspension, and steering elements beneath a flat load ground. It may be expanded or contracted to construct many car sorts.
The Future: A Frequent Battery
GM plans to construct many EVs on the Ultium platform, together with vehicles, vehicles, and SUVs, starting from small to full-size. The roughly $30,000 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV is the most cost effective publicly deliberate mannequin.
However there could also be room for a smaller, cheaper car below that. In an interview with NPR’s Market podcast, GM CEO Mary Barra hinted at a return utilizing the Ultium platform.
“We’re leveraging the names of our autos which can be properly understood and identified within the business,” she mentioned. “Bolt is one thing that has constructed up plenty of loyalty and fairness. I can’t say extra as a result of I don’t focus on future product packages,” Barra mentioned. “However that’s an necessary car in our portfolio.”
EV costs have begun to return down dramatically – the typical EV in April offered for $10,096 lower than a yr in the past. That’s true largely due to authorities incentives and a worth lower battle began by Tesla.
However it’s additionally a matter of economies of scale – every part will get cheaper to construct as you construct extra of it. The unfold of the Ultium platform may allow GM to launch a lower-cost subcompact EV, which, it appears, may resurrect the Bolt identify automotive consumers already know.
