GM Shifts to Gas Cars, Shelving Chevy Bolt EV Ambitions

Bassyonni

Published on January 23, 2026 04:52PM EST

GM Shifts to Gas Cars, Shelving Chevy Bolt EV Ambitions

General Motors (GM) is refocusing its production strategy, shifting primarily to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The announcement affects the future of its electric vehicle (EV) line, particularly the Chevy Bolt EV.

GM Halts Production of Chevy Bolt EV

Production for the new Chevy Bolt EV began at GM’s Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas in November. However, this production is set to end by 2027 as GM transitions to exclusively manufacturing ICE vehicles at the facility. This change follows GM’s introduction of the 2027 Chevy Bolt EV in October, with the vehicle positioned as a budget-friendly option for consumers with a starting price of approximately $28,595.

Shifting Production Focus

GM’s announcement to cease Chevy Bolt EV production aligns with plans to shift the plant’s focus to gasoline-powered models. Following the end of Bolt production, the 2028 model of the Buick Envision will begin assembly at the Kansas plant. The Envision has been imported from China since 2017 but is now being relocated to ensure more domestic production.

2027 Chevy Bolt EV: Launching with a price of $28,595 and an EPA-estimated range of 262 miles.
Production End Date: Chevy Bolt EV ceases production by 2027.
New Model Introduction: Buick Envision production starts in 2028 at the Kansas plant.

Domestic Manufacturing and Job Support

GM stated that relocating production to the U.S. “strengthens GM’s domestic manufacturing footprint and supports U.S. jobs.” While the Fairfax plant is currently operational for EVs, plans indicate it will soon become exclusive to ICE vehicles. GM has also committed to investing $4 billion to enhance U.S. production capabilities, which suggests a strategic pivot in their long-term vision.

Future of Affordable EVs

The 2027 Chevy Bolt EV was anticipated to be the first in a new family of affordable electric models. A Chevrolet representative indicated that strong customer demand prompted the limited re-release of the Bolt. However, GM’s commitment to the affordable EV segment is uncertain as they plan to increase ICE vehicle production.

Last year, GM outsold other automakers in EV sales outside of Tesla, significantly due to the affordability of the Bolt and the introduction of models like the Chevy Equinox EV. As GM navigates these changes, there are discussions about potentially introducing a “next-gen affordable EV” to maintain competitiveness in the market.

Challenges Ahead

While the Bolt EV benefits from new technologies like LFP batteries sourced from CATL in China, the company’s pivot towards gas-powered vehicles raises concerns about the future of electric mobility, especially for budget-conscious consumers. Recent strategies have also been influenced by tariffs impacting imported vehicles, pushing GM to bolster domestic production.

The shift towards ICE vehicles could signify a major turning point for GM’s approach to electric mobility. The success of the 2027 Chevy Bolt EV will ultimately determine the future trajectory of GM’s EV offerings.