Chevrolet is reportedly planning to address a design quirk in the upcoming generation of the Bolt electric vehicle (EV). Currently, the Bolt’s brake lights are positioned low on the rear bumper, causing confusion for other drivers on the road. However, according to a report from GM Authority, the next-generation Bolt will feature brake lights mounted higher on the rear, alongside the running lights and turn signals.
While the current design has not been a significant safety issue, some Bolt owners have expressed concerns that the low position of the brake lights may be difficult to see for drivers of taller vehicles, such as SUVs or pickups. This could potentially lead to a reliance on the top-mounted third brake light, which is easier to miss. Therefore, the shift to a more conventional rear lighting setup is likely to be welcomed by customers considering trading in their current Bolt for a future model.
The reason behind the Bolt’s unconventional rear lighting design lies in the numerous regulations that dictate the placement of brake lights. In the United States, all vehicles must have at least one set of “fixed” brake lights that are not on any moving body part, such as a tailgate. As a result, Chevy had to add additional brake lights below the upper taillights, which are mostly part of the tailgate. This ensured that the brake lights would remain visible regardless of the tailgate’s position.
Chevrolet is not the only automaker to adopt a unique taillight/brake light combination. Other manufacturers, like Hyundai with the 2024 Santa Fe, have also incorporated similar designs. Some automakers have found clever solutions to this challenge. For example, the BMW iX has discreet brake lights located inside the tailgate door jambs, while the old Buick Cascada had a similar setup in the trunk. These extra brake lights serve as backups when the standard ones cannot be seen.
It remains to be seen whether Chevy will adopt a similar approach or opt for a more conventional design when the new Bolt is unveiled. Regardless, the shift to a higher placement of the brake lights is expected to address the concerns of Bolt owners and improve overall visibility for other drivers on the road.
In conclusion, Chevrolet is set to rectify the unconventional rear lighting design of the Bolt EV in the upcoming generation. This change will enhance safety and visibility for both Bolt owners and other drivers on the road. With the new rear lighting setup, Chevy aims to meet regulatory requirements while providing a more intuitive and conventional experience for drivers. The next-generation Bolt is eagerly anticipated, and time will reveal the final design choices made by Chevrolet.
