At the time when General Motors shelved the previous Chevrolet Bolt, at the end of the 2023 model year, it was one of the cheapest electric vehicles available in Canada.

When GM set out to revive the model, it was with the goal of keeping it among the lowest-priced EVs on the market.

Now, GM is delivering on that cost promise.

The automaker has unveiled the new Bolt, which is launching for the 2027 model year.

It will have a starting manufacturer’s suggest retail price of $39,999 in Canada. With fees and levies, that will bring the subcompact EV to a starting price of around $43,470.

It’s expected to go on sale in Canada in the first quarter of 2026.

What’s new

Automotive observers will notice that the Bolt’s appearance is not much changed from the former model, save for some tweaks to the front fascia and taillights.

GM even acknowledges that, saying the new car/crossover has a similar shape to the old one, but underneath the sheet metal are all-new guts.

The Bolt will be motivated by GM’s updated X76 electric drive unit.

In the Bolt, the single-motor drive unit has 210 hp and 169 lb.-ft. of torque.

The automaker said the drive unit was designed from the ground up to maximize driving range and efficiency. The permanent-magnet motor is said to use minimal rare-earth materials to reduce costs, while segmented magnets reduce heat build-up and energy loss.

Additionally, silicon carbide inverter materials are said to minimize energy loss between the battery and drive unit.

The car gets its energy from a 65-kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery.

With a DC fast-charging capable of up to 150 kW, GM said the new Bolt will recharge 2.5 times faster at a public fast-charger than the previous Bolt.

It also comes standard with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, the same that’s used at Tesla Superchargers, which will allow it to connect to more public Level 3 chargers.

The on-board AC charger for at home Level 2 charging is capable of speeds of 11.5 kW.

GM estimates the 2027 Bolt will have driving range of up to 410 kilometres on a full charge.

Tech

The new Bolt gets a larger infotainment screen, now measuring 11.3 inches, which can be used for navigation, music and entertainment apps through the Google Built-in. Occupants can also use “Hey Google” voice assistance to control various vehicle features such as HVAC, seat heaters, and more.

The driver also gets a larger, 11-inch information display.

Super Cruise driver assistance technology is available.

GM points out the cabin has a mix of physical and virtual controls to ensure the frequently used features are easy to access.

Space

The interior design was intended to maximize space and an available panoramic roof creates an airy atmosphere.

Even the column shifter was redesigned to create more space between the front seats.

“Fans love the space and practicality of the Bolt’s roomy hatchback layout,” said Phil Zak, executive design director, Global Chevrolet, in a news release. “We took feedback directly from customers to make sure the 2027 Bolt delivers improved technology and expanded features without compromising space, usability or style.”

For the first time, Chevrolet will offer a sporty-looking RS trim on the Bolt, which has unique visual elements, such as special grille badging, high-gloss black wheels and roof rails.

For updates, visit the Chevrolet Canada website.

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