GM ends production of groundbreaking Chevy Bolt EV.
Officially ending production
General Motors (GM) announced in an earnings call on Tuesday that it will officially end production of the Chevrolet Bolt, the automaker's electric vehicle (EV).
Introduced in 2017, the Bolt was the most affordable electric vehicle on the market, with a starting price of $26,500, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Despite the success of the Bolt, GM has decided to shift its focus to other electric vehicle models and technologies.
"When the Chevrolet Bolt EV launched, it was a huge technical achievement and the first affordable EV, which set in motion GM's all-electric future," said GM spokesperson Cody Williams in a statement.
However, production of both the Chevy Bolt EV and the larger EUV will wrap up by the end of 2023, as the company moves forward with its plans to grow its EV portfolio.
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subscribeGM remains committed to EVs
Despite the end of Bolt production, GM remains committed to expanding its EV lineup. The Michigan plant where the Bolt was manufactured will begin producing electric Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks in 2024.
Additionally, the company plans to introduce the Chevy Blazer EV, a midsize SUV with a starting price of $44,995 and a range of up to 320 miles, in July. The Equinox EV, with a range of 300 miles and a sticker price of around $30,000, is also expected later this year.
Recall
The Bolt was GM's first battery-electric vehicle on the market for under $50,000 with a range of more than 200 miles, making it a groundbreaking achievement for the company. However, reports from 2016 suggest that GM expected to lose up to $9,000 per car in order to be a market leader.
Furthermore, the Bolt was subject to a complete recall after reports of LG battery pack fires, leading to production halting for almost a year. In 2021, GM advised Bolt owners to park their vehicles outdoors, at least 50 feet away from other vehicles, in case of a potential fire.
Despite the challenges faced by Bolt, GM remains confident about the future of its electric vehicle lineup. The next generation of GM electric vehicles will utilize the company's new Ultrium battery, which promises to provide better performance and a longer range.
As the company continues to invest in electric vehicle technology and expand its lineup, the end of Bolt production marks a new chapter in GM's commitment to sustainable transportation.