General Motors is dramatically scaling back production plans for the Chevrolet Bolt EV as the U.S. electric-vehicle market continues to adjust to major changes in consumer incentives and demand.
According to estimates from the local United Auto Workers union, GM is expected to produce roughly 35,000 Bolt EVs — far below earlier expectations of around 150,000 vehicles.
What Happened to the Chevrolet Bolt?
The Bolt is one of the most affordable electric vehicles available in the United States, with a starting price of approximately $27,600.
But despite its relatively low price, sales have remained limited.
Only 4,224 Bolts were sold through August 2026, according to figures cited by Reuters.
One major change affecting the EV market was the elimination of the $7,500 federal EV purchase tax credit in 2025.
Without that incentive, electric vehicles became effectively more expensive for many buyers.
Production Could End in Early 2027
The current Chevrolet Bolt is described by GM as a “limited run” model.
Production at GM’s Kansas City-area plant is expected to end during the first quarter of 2027.
The reduced production plan has also affected workers, with approximately 1,000 employees remaining on indefinite layoff as plans to restore a second production shift have been delayed.
GM Is Changing Its Strategy
GM has been reassessing parts of its EV strategy as the U.S. market changes.
The company has recorded billions of dollars in EV-related charges since 2025 and has adjusted production plans at several facilities.
At the same time, GM isn’t abandoning electric vehicles entirely.
The company continues investing in future EV and battery technology while also increasing its focus on profitable gasoline-powered vehicles.
The Kansas City-area facility is expected to eventually produce gasoline-powered Chevrolet Equinox and Buick Envision SUVs.
The changes highlight a major question facing the American auto industry:
How quickly are U.S. drivers really ready to switch to electric vehicles?