Production of the first-generation Chevy Bolt EV and slightly larger Bolt EUV came to a close in December of 2023, and although a successor wasn’t initially guaranteed, GM has since confirmed plans to offer a second-generation Bolt. The upcoming second-gen Bolt will launch for the 2026 model year and won’t be a clean sheet redesign, but it will still present a golden opportunity for improvements compared to the first-generation Bolt. With that in mind, we’ve put together our list of the top five changes we’d like to see from the upcoming 2026 Chevy Bolt EV.
2026 Chevy Bolt EV GM Authority rendering
1. Revamped Exterior Design
The second-gen Bolt EV will be based on the outgoing Bolt EUV, which should help to lower development costs. While this means the new Bolt could retain the same structure and doors as the first-gen EUV, we’d also like to see a redesigned front and rear fascia, preferably with design cues taken from the more modern Equinox EV (similar to the rendering we did previously). Also look for high-mounted taillights, while a revised liftgate with smoother contours would eliminate the current model’s sharp, injury-prone edges.
2. Bring Back Apple CarPlay And Android Auto
As part of its broader tech strategy, GM is dropping Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its future EVs in favor its own Google-based infotainment ecosystem. While this strategy will provide a more direct link between the vehicle and user (as well as support GM’s subscription-based revenue aspirations), omitting smartphone mirroring in an entry-level vehicle like the 2026 Chevy Bolt EV could be a major misstep. After all, budget-conscious buyers are unlikely to appreciate being locked into paid services for essential features, making the inclusion of CarPlay and Android Auto a practical must.
3. Adopt Global B Electronic Architecture
The original Bolt EV was not built on GM’s Global B (Vehicle Intelligence Platform) electronic architecture, but the next-gen version should be. Global B offers dramatically increased processing capabilities, enabling faster and more secure software updates, over-the-air capabilities, and enhanced cybersecurity – all critical items in a modern EV.
4. Improved DC Fast Charging Speeds
Charging speed was a well-known limitation of the original Bolt, which maxed out at 50 kW on DC fast chargers. The 2026 Chevy Bolt EV should support charging rates of at least 100 kW. While that still lags behind the segment’s fastest-charging models, it would significantly reduce wait times and better align current consumer expectations.
5. Better OEM Tires And Practical Wheel Sizing
The outgoing Bolt EV and EUV were fitted with 17-inch Michelin Selfseal tires, but tire technology has progressed significantly since then. As such, GM should outfit the new Bolt with improved all-season rubber that maintains low rolling resistance without compromising grip, especially in the wet. Additionally, offering wheel sizes in the 17- to 18-inch range would help to lower long-term maintenance costs – while the larger 19- and 21-inch wheels on the Equinox EV look sharp, they aren’t exactly in line with a budget-focused proposition like the new 2026 Chevy Bolt EV.
What changes do you want to see from the new second-generation Bolt EV? Let us know by posting in the comments!
Comments
I want to see faster level 2 charging speeds. I once had to forego using my phone charger, which meant no fast charging. You don’t realize how long 5-6 hours is until you need your phone 2 hours later and you’re only at 38% battery. The Bolt took 10-13 hours to charge, which meant late working nights coming home followed up with early mornings wouldn’t be enough time to charge the car.
This I a compact car not a road car.. would like a little larger vehicle but only drive less than 85 miles a day not concerned about long trips … have a Enclave for that.
So where the heck is it? Seems like we’ve been talking about if for years. Oh, that’s right, the Cadillac EVs are SO much more important.
Obviously the Cadillac EVs are more important.
Tell me you have no clue how to run a business without telling me you have no clue how to run a business.
Beachy just needs it to come out quickly so he can say how terrible it is and why it’s a huge failure.
It doesn’t matter how much more profit per vehicle the Caddy generates is no one can afford to buy ir. Americans want affordable EVs, not $80000 jewels that sit on dealer lots forever.
As a current Bolt EUV owner the things I see that need improving are things already mentioned. The tail lights need to be better, the charging speed needs to be minimum 100kw. I’d say 150kw would be better. And yes, we want our Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
EREV or PHEV with AWD would be nice.
Shoving an engine in it would be a major change in the structure.
Maybe a dual charge port so NACS and CCS1 charging can be done without adapters. Some manufacturers have already done this.
Having a ‘23 Bolt myself.
1. DC charging at minimum 150 kw capability.
2. Apple Car Play, especially since from my understanding Apple does not charge OEM’s for the software.
3. Move the charge port to the far front or back, no more right in front of the driver’s door, especially since all the OEM’s are moving to the sleeker NACS port, instead of the larger & bulky J1772 & CCS1.
Where are the Hybrids!?
Bring back a better Volt
And keep loyal to the brand names like Malibu. GM should have made that a sedan wagon and real SS sedan model line up. Can’t stand seeing these gussied up Camrys, Kia’s, Honda and Subaru sedan/Wagon/Suv brands all over when GM threw in the towel because their planning design and marketing for the Malibu & Impala was way off
The original Bolts only had access to a fraction of the Super Cruise roads due to some physical lack in design. The new Bolts should have any hardware necessary to access the full range of Super Cruise roads.
Keep the ventilated seats
We need affordable sedan like Malibu. No more overpriced electric crossover….
Agreed, and all of the kooky GM fans here were just lamenting the cancellation of the Malibu, a good, solid seller, just a few short months ago.
The Malibu was a solid car for the fleet market. My former company’s motor pool was full of them and they were reliable as you could build an American car.
Which almost no one in America will buy. Look at sales charts to see what kind of “car” Americans are willing to pay for. The RAV4 ousells every non pickup in America.
I inadvertently got a RAV4 rental to drive back from my daughters in NY 450 miles. I think they should be illegal to drive on highways! At 70mph it gets unstable! And my much larger 310hp Enclave gets much better mpg on the highway!!
Make the RAV4 cost twice as much just like they made the Chevy Volt cost $80,000 in Japan !!! See how many sell here!
Make sure the new Bolt is fully sorted out before release. Many new gm electrics were released and had immediate software issues.
I own a ‘21 Bolt and will not be purchasing another fully electric vehicle. It is a personal choice based on my experiences. My next around town vehicle will be a hybrid.
As owner of an Opel Ampera/Chevy Volt with over 350.000 kms on the odometer, I would never trade it for a Bolt. Bring back the Volt and I will buy it. A Bolt, never.
Move charging port to left rear. Most electric power panels are on the left side of the garage. If you need to put in 220v you would not have to run long line and save on installation cost,.
I think you need to look at a lot more houses.
But left rear is still better because it suits Tesla Supercharger setups better.
The front right side would work too; then one could drive forward to the supercharger.
I bought my 2017 Bolt new and still love it. Worst thing about it is the front seat cushion. Too narrow for comfort, and I’m of standard build, not overweight.
Things NOT to change are its tight turning radius and sporty handling – thank Josh Tavel for making sure of the first gen Bolt had these qualities. I hope he’s still around to ensure the 2nd gen Bolt carries on.
More space in the trunk would be appreciated.
I see 55 kw while “fast charging”. I suspect the new Bolt will use the same charger as the Equinox so, 150 kW. I have a pre refresh 2019 and I like the updated interior more than mine. It would likely suffice for several years if they keep it as is.
After six years of ownership, I’ve had no need for service except for tire rotations. There are 11 or 12 Bolts and five or six Volts where I work and everyone I’ve talked has also had a trouble-free ownership experience. If the new gen is as reliable as the previous gen, they should have no issue selling them.
I would like to see the EUV come out with all wheel drive and still under $30,000.00 I would buy it in a New York minute. Marry Barra are you listening.
Since GM has suggested there will be a Bolt family, let’s have a Bolt EUS (sedan), EUV (suv) and EUT (truck). All having atleast 300 miles of range.
I can fit 14 bags of mulch in the car but a small truck would be awesome.
They should not make it look like a clown car that you would see at the circus.
I’ve driven the Bolt and the Tesla 3. The Bolt is a much better functional car rather than the i Phone feel of the Tesla, hopefully Chevy doesn’t follow Tesla on the way the Model 3 functions
Remotely operated tailgate. Add foot operated tailgate for extra happiness. Even just adding a tailgate button to the Fob and the console would be nice.
Little more cargo volume would be appreciated, specially with the Ultium platform. More cushioned and wider molded ventilated and seats for better comfort.
My 2023 EUV built at Orion Assembly plant. Flawless build. Hats off to Orion crew.
There’s Ultium stuff that could and should go into the new Bolt.
– AWD based around the Ultium AWD 90 hp air cooled AWD Assist motor. More capable winter performance plus the option for a hot Bolt SS.
– Ultium Energy Recovery system based around a heat pump for better efficiency in winter.
– Offer batteries of different sizes to meet different use cases and budgets.
– Make the new Bolt capable of operating with GM bi-directional Vehicle to Home.
– Common software for common user interface and over-the-air upgrades.
I love my 23 and I think a SS version would sell well. Real performance not hood decals.
Required updates should be
1- AWD
2- 200+ KW charging
3- Built in Dash Cam
4- Proper cameras, Add more cameras, and get rid of the super wide angle under mirrors.
5- Ability to find tune the charging, ala’ Tesla.
6- Bring the rear light setup to mirror the front setup. LEDs, Strobing turn signals, ect …
A jack would be nice to have due to the low ground clearance when get a blowout there 3.5 inches to fit a jack which needs to be heavy duty. I do love my 2019 bolt. The amount window space makes it special and acceleration is tremendous.
J’ai eu 2 Bolt EV. 2017 et 2020 Magnifiques voitures. Je n’ai jamais compris que GM n’ait pas poussé davantage ses qualités afin de hausser ses ventes aux États-Unis. GM disait que le modèle était boudé par les Américains. Plus facile de fermer boutique ? Que de faire valoir ses qualités urbaines dans les villes encombrées ? J’adore en particulier le miroir électronique qui nous donne une vision périphérique extraordinaire. Son comportement routier est exceptionnel. Pas d’entretien en effet. Nettoyage des freins… Pour faire plaisir au concessionnaire et rotation des pneus une fois l’an.
The most important improvement is that it not be an unreliable piece of junk lime the rest of GMs EVs.
I would echo what others have said, Apple/Android car play, and faster DC fast charging speeds… but.. how about a dual motor “hot hatch” variant.. say two 150 KW motors for a combined 400 hp.. and all wheel drive.. now that would be really cool…
I owned an EV 2017 and now a 2022 EUV well equipped. The Bolt must stay a simple (economic) FWD with charging speeds over 100 kw without harming battery longevity. The charging port must stay there because it’s a place where you dont find yourself seated, realising that the gun is still in place. Don’t move it in front because it’s a first broken point when collisioning, it’s a dirty place witch freezes easyly and a place where the hood discharge it’s water and snow when charging. It’s the most stupid place and Hyundai/Kia begun to understand. Also, give it a 1,500 lbs towing capacity with electrical harness and a passthrougt in the rear armrest for ski or long items. Also, better longevity for the front link kit that connect the torsion bar to the suspension. Only a 35,000 miles toughness. And don’t add a sixth bolt to the wheels.