How many cells are in a Chevy Volt?
The Chevy Volt’s battery cell count depends on the generation: the original 2010–2015 Volt uses 288 cells, while the 2016–2019 second generation uses 192 cells in its 18.4 kWh pack.
Cell counts by generation
The two generations of the Volt use different battery architectures, affecting the total number of cells inside the pack. Here is a concise comparison.
- First generation (2010–2015): 16 kWh pack comprising 288 cells.
- Second generation (2016–2019): 18.4 kWh pack comprising 192 cells.
The shift from 288 to 192 cells reflects a redesign aimed at higher energy density and improved thermal management, while keeping the battery footprint compatible with the vehicle’s floor layout.
Impact on range and design
The cell count, alongside chemistry and packaging, influences electric range and charging behavior. Gen 1 offered roughly up to 38 miles of electric range under EPA testing, while Gen 2 improved to around 53 miles, with variations by year, driving conditions, and testing methodology.
In essence, the Volt’s cell count tell a story about how GM adjusted energy storage across its production years, balancing capacity, cost, and packaging constraints within a plug-in hybrid design.
Summary
Two generations of the Chevy Volt exist. The original Gen 1 pack used 288 cells in a 16 kWh configuration, and the Gen 2 pack used 192 cells in an 18.4 kWh configuration. This change reflects a shift toward denser energy storage while maintaining the Volt’s plug-in hybrid form factor.
