TO THE EDITOR:
Is one of the Detroit 3 automakers once again on the verge of dumping a vehicle because the company has gotten bored with it? (“GM to restart Chevy Bolt production in April after battery-fire recall,” autonews.com, Feb. 15) The latest example of an automaker discontinuing a vehicle before its time appears to be the Chevrolet Bolt. (Think also Lincoln LS, Dodge Dart, Ford Taurus X and Chevy Cruze.)
It looks likely the Bolt will be without a home once electric pickup production commences at the Orion Assembly plant in 2024. It seems bad business to discontinue a vehicle that fits a niche going forward — a very affordable EV hatchback and small crossover. And its battery problems seem to be resolved.
It’s clear that GM, and others, are seduced by the EV pickup market, but not everyone can afford — or wants — $75,000 transportation. GM shouldn’t let the lure of large vehicles (and correspondingly large profits) taint its stated position to be the largest producer of EVs for America. Think of all the people who want to get into an EV, not just the ones who can afford a living room on wheels.
Perhaps build the Bolt where costs are lower and export from there. This vehicle deserves to live on — if not for the U.S., then for many other people in North America and around the globe.
KIM HILL, President, HWA Analytics, Ann Arbor, Mich., HWA Analytics is a consulting firm that helps public sector clients develop strategies to attract automotive investment.