Chevrolet Malibu Discontinued in November 2024: Potential Revival as an Electric Vehicle?

Malibu is to be discontinued in November 2024
Possibility of revival with electric vehicles?
What design will it come out with?

General Motors (GM) announced that it would discontinue the production of the US Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan. Since the launch of the first generation model in 1964, the Malibu has maintained its reputation through the 9th generation. There was a time when the Malibu, which has been in existence for 60 years, was so popular that more than 10 million units were sold.

However, as demand for sedans shifted to SUVs, including GM’s electric conversion policy, Malibu sales gradually declined, ultimately failing to avoid discontinuation. Instead of discontinuing the Malibu, GM is expected to expand production of electrified models such as the second-generation Bolt and Cadillac XT4.

Sharper Than Before
Vertical Air Intake

Some expressed regret over the discontinuation of the Malibu, which has a long history. In particular, the possibility that the 10th generation Malibu could be launched as an electrified model has been raised several times, so many consumers are still looking forward to it. Among these, designer Josh Burns’s rendering of the Malibu EV is becoming a hot topic.

If customers look closely, they can see the existing Malibu’s appearance in various places, such as the lines extending on the side of the bonnet and the sleek shape of the front. The thinly designed headlamp’s end is made sharper than before. On the side, a vertical air intake extends from the bottom of the bumper.

Smooth Curved Lines
Design for Aerodynamic Performance

The Chevrolet luminous bow-tie emblem was attached to the center of the front. The large grille on the front has disappeared as it is an electric vehicle. Instead, a long trapezoidal panel resembling a grill has been placed in its place. A detailed hatch pattern design has been applied to the side of the panel. The aerodynamic performance has been further improved by applying streamlined lines to the front and the bonnet.

The angular front lines, air intakes, and sharp headlamps that correspond to this still maintain a sporty appearance. The side roof line features a sharply falling shape. The black molding used here makes the impression that the side part is connected as a single glass window.

Eye-Catching Bold Design

Unlike before, the window belt line has a considerable sense of height and extends straight. However, it has been emphasized by rising to the top from behind the C-pillar. The shape of the rear quarter glass created this way is a sharp triangle, creating a unique design on the side. In addition, larger wheels have been applied, featuring extremely short overhangs.