Key facts
- GM is producing approximately 75% fewer Chevrolet Bolt EVs than initially planned.
- The Kansas City-area plant is expected to produce around 35,000 Bolt EVs before production ceases in Q1 next year.
- The original production target for the Bolt was approximately 150,000 vehicles.
- The reduction in output is attributed to scaled-back EV plans following the withdrawal of federal subsidies.
- GM has incurred $10.9 billion in EV-related charges since Q2 2025.
- The plant's reduced production has delayed the rehiring of a second work shift.
General Motors is significantly scaling back production of its Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle, with the Kansas City-area plant now slated to produce approximately 35,000 units before the model's end in the first quarter of next year. This represents a 75% decrease from the original plan of around 150,000 vehicles, according to a union official.
Dontay Wilson, president of the United Auto Workers local chapter representing factory workers, told Reuters that the union's estimate is based on daily production volumes and not provided by GM. The automaker declined to comment on specific production numbers, stating it "continuously evaluate[s] market dynamics and customer demand."
The reduced output is seen as a reflection of automakers adjusting their electric vehicle strategies following policy changes that have withdrawn federal subsidies for battery-powered cars. GM has recorded $10.9 billion in EV-related charges since the second quarter of 2025, indicating a broader trend of companies re-evaluating large investments in EVs.
The lower-than-expected production of the Bolt has also impacted the factory's workforce, delaying the rehiring of a second work shift. Nearly 1,000 employees are currently on indefinite layoff. However, the plant is scheduled to receive new work, with GM planning to begin production of the gas-powered Chevrolet Equinox and shift production of the Buick Envision SUV from China to the facility next year.