Next-generation Bolt to be exclusively offered in the EU, as the SUV trend permeates the automotive sector according to GM.

In a market dominated by SUVs and CUVs, the Chevy Bolt EV stands out as a unique hatchback offering. At 163 inches in length, it is the only vehicle on the list that might not qualify as an SUV, offering a compact yet tall stature.

However, the Bolt EV is based on GM's old battery platform, while the new Ultium platform is being used. This shift is evident in the company's decision to discontinue the production of the Bolt EV at the end of this year, to be replaced by an Ultium-based Bolt in 2025.

The Bolt EUV, a newer, larger variant of the Bolt EV, has been selling better in recent years. In fact, the CEO of General Motors, Mary Barra, stated that the Ultium Bolt would take the best attributes of the Bolt EUV.

This move towards larger EVs is not without controversy. With the elimination of the Bolt EV, GM is ignoring 30% of its customers who prefer car-like EVs. The graphic above shows that America's largest manufacturer only offers SUVs, contributing to the SUV segment being the largest in the US vehicle market.

This trend towards SUVs has led to higher pedestrian deaths and worse emissions. The Inflation Reduction Act includes tax credits for EVs, but these are capped at $55,000 for cars and $80,000 for SUVs and trucks, incentivizing the production of EV SUVs.

On the other hand, the Bolt EV is still the overall better seller across the history of the nameplate. Its affordability, compared to the Bolt EUV which is marketed as the "most affordable EV in America" but is actually $1,300 more expensive, has been a key factor in its success.

The arrival of the new Volvo EX30, which is quite close to the Bolt EV’s footprint and layout, is generating interest among consumers looking for compact, affordable EVs. As the market evolves, it remains to be seen how GM's decision to focus on larger EVs will impact its customer base and the broader EV market.

In the meantime, the Chevy Bolt is experiencing its best year of sales ever, demonstrating the enduring appeal of compact, affordable EVs in the face of a growing market of larger, more expensive SUVs.