Chevrolet Bolt Returns with New LFP Battery

The Chevrolet Bolt has officially returned to dealerships as of January 2026. This reintroduction provides a budget-friendly alternative to the newly launched Chevrolet Equinox EV, which starts at a sub-$35,000 price point.

General Motors previously discontinued the Bolt after facing substantial financial losses and a massive safety recall. The original model was significant as GM's first modern electric vehicle, predating the widespread adoption of the Tesla Model 3. Despite its popularity among consumers for its range and driving dynamics, the vehicle cost the company thousands of dollars per sale. The situation was exacerbated by a battery recall that cost $1.8 billion to address issues with battery cells that could cause fires.

The new Bolt addresses these issues with updated technology. It now utilizes an LFP battery pack that provides 262 miles of range and supports fast-charging speeds of 150 kW. This return aims to capture the market segment looking for an EV that is smaller and more affordable than the Equinox EV.

The Chevrolet Bolt is currently available in dealerships, positioning itself as a vital option in the affordable electric vehicle market. This move comes as General Motors expands its EV lineup with the Chevrolet Equinox EV, a compact crossover designed to compete in the growing affordable segment.

The Equinox EV is described as a solid entry into the market with a starting price just under $35,000. While this price point is considered affordable by 2026 standards, it may still be out of reach for some consumers. Additionally, the crossover form factor might not suit every driver's needs regarding size and utility.

For consumers who find the Equinox EV too expensive or too large, the Bolt serves as the primary alternative. The vehicle offers a smaller footprint, which is often preferred for city driving and parking. Its return to the market ensures that there remains a distinct option for those prioritizing cost and compactness over the crossover utility of the Equinox.

The Chevrolet Bolt holds a significant place in the history of General Motors' electrification efforts. It was the company's first modern electric vehicle, following the hand-built, pre-lithium ion EV1 and the compliance car that was the Spark EV.

Enthusiasts and industry observers praised the original Bolt for several key achievements. It offered well more than 200 miles of range in a mass-produced EV at a reasonable price. This occurred well before the Tesla Model 3 became a common sight on roads, establishing the Bolt as a pioneer in accessible long-range electric driving.

Key attributes of the original model included:

• Over 200 miles of range in a mass-produced vehicle
• Improvements in efficiency over time
• A fun and engaging driving experience

Despite these accolades, the vehicle was a financial burden for General Motors. The company lost thousands of dollars on each unit sold, making the vehicle's continued production economically challenging without significant changes.

General Motors faced significant hurdles with the original Chevrolet Bolt that led to its initial discontinuation. The primary issue was financial; the automaker lost thousands of dollars on every car sold, a situation that proved unsustainable over the long term.

The situation deteriorated further due to a massive safety recall affecting the entire fleet. The recall was necessitated by a defect in the battery cells, specifically improperly folded tabs. This manufacturing error created a risk of battery fires, posing a safety hazard to owners.

The fallout from the recall was severe for both General Motors and its battery partner, LG. The logistics and costs associated with replacing the batteries across the entire fleet were immense. The recall alone cost General Motors $1.8 billion, compounding the financial losses already incurred from the vehicle's sale price. This series of events generated significant negative press for the company and led to the decision to end production, a decision that has now been reversed with the vehicle's return.

The reintroduction of the Chevrolet Bolt brings updated technology designed to address previous shortcomings and meet modern standards. The centerpiece of this update is the new battery system.

According to available specifications, the new Bolt features an LFP battery pack. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries are known for their durability and safety characteristics, which may help alleviate concerns stemming from the previous recall issues.

The performance metrics for the new battery pack include:

• Range: 262 miles
• Fast-charging capability: 150 kW

These specifications ensure that the vehicle remains competitive in the current market. A range of 262 miles is sufficient for most daily driving needs and long-distance commutes, while 150 kW charging speeds allow for relatively quick stops at public charging stations. This combination of range and charging speed, packaged in a vehicle expected to be priced competitively, makes the Bolt a compelling option for the budget-conscious EV buyer.