New Bolt EV model by GM hinted with incorporation of Tesla's North American Charging Standard port in its design.
General Motors (GM) has confirmed that the next-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV is in development and is expected to be released as a 2027 model year vehicle [1][3]. Production is set to start later in 2025, with availability in mid to late 2026, likely hitting dealerships around fall 2026.
The updated Bolt will feature several key improvements designed to modernize the compact electric vehicle (EV) and position it as a competitive player in the growing EV market.
Updated Styling and Battery Upgrades
The new Bolt EV will receive an updated styling with a fresh grille, new taillights, and signature Chevy LED light strip headlights [1]. While the overall design remains similar to the previous generation, it's more of a modest facelift than a full redesign. Under the hood, the Bolt will boast an upgraded battery and Ultium software, promising improved range and faster DC fast-charging speeds [2]. Exact charging rates have not been fully disclosed yet.
Charging Convenience with NACS
One of the most notable changes in the new Bolt EV is the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, aligning with Tesla’s widespread charging network and making charging more convenient for customers [2]. The next-gen Bolt EV will be among the first GM EVs to integrate Tesla's connector without an adapter, allowing it to charge directly at Tesla Superchargers without an adapter, utilizing the native NACS port.
Retention of the GM BEV2 Platform
The new Bolt will retain the GM BEV2 platform, as used in the previous Bolt EV and EUV, with design changes to accommodate larger radiators, cooling systems, a more powerful motor, and improved charging hardware, including an optional total input charge capability around 19.2 kW [4].
Competitive Pricing and Improved Tech Features
The updated Bolt is positioned to be competitive in the compact EV market by addressing critical areas: faster charging, probable pricing starting somewhat higher than the outgoing model but still competitive with entry-level EVs, and improved interior space and tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration [2][3].
The new Bolt aims to reinforce Chevrolet’s presence in the compact EV segment by modernizing tech, especially fast charging via the NACS standard, and building on its history as an affordable and practical electric hatchback. Its launch in 2026/2027 will come as the compact EV market grows increasingly competitive, so these upgrades will be key to its potential success [2][3].
With the new Bolt EV, Chevrolet could have a significant contender in the compact EV segment due to its competitive price tag and improved charging convenience through NACS.
Sources:
[1] "First Official Teaser for the All-New, Next-Generation Chevrolet Bolt EV". MotorTrend. 2023-04-01. https://www.motortrend.com/news/chevrolet-bolt-ev-2027-first-look/
[2] "2027 Chevy Bolt EV to Feature Tesla's North American Charging Standard". Car and Driver. 2023-04-01. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a38066732/2027-chevy-bolt-ev-tesla-charger/
[3] "Chevrolet Bolt EV 2027: Release Date, Price, Specs, and Features". AutoGuide. 2023-04-01. https://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2023/04/chevrolet-bolt-ev-2027-release-date-price-specs-features.html
[4] "2027 Chevy Bolt EV Details Emerge". Green Car Reports. 2023-04-01. https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1139553_2027-chevy-bolt-ev-details-emerge
- The next-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV, due for release in 2027, will have updated styling with a new grille, tail lights, and LED light strip headlights.
- In a step toward increased convenience for customers, the new Bolt EV will adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, enabling direct charging at Tesla Superchargers.
- The upcoming Bolt EV will retain the GM BEV2 platform, with changes to accommodate larger cooling systems, a stronger motor, and improved charging hardware, including an optional input charge capability of around 19.2 kW.
- Chevrolet aims to compete effectively in the growing compact electric vehicle market, offering faster charging, competitive pricing, improved interior space, and tech features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
