What are Chevy Bolt batteries made of?
Short answer: Chevy Bolt batteries are lithium-ion cells produced by LG Chem, using nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) chemistry with graphite anodes, assembled into modular packs. This arrangement powers the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV's electric range. This article examines the materials and pack design behind that energy storage, and what it means for performance and safety.
Chemistry at the core
The Bolt’s energy storage relies on automotive-grade lithium-ion cells optimized for high energy density, longevity, and safety. The cathode chemistry is nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), a common choice in modern EVs for balancing energy capacity with stability. The anode material used is graphite, paired with a liquid electrolyte that facilitates lithium-ion movement between electrodes. The cells are manufactured by LG Chem and configured to deliver the voltage and current needed for propulsion and regenerative braking.
Key materials and components of the Bolt battery include these elements:
- Cell chemistry: lithium-ion cells with NMC (nickel manganese cobalt oxide) cathodes
- Active materials: graphite anodes
- Electrolyte: lithium salts in carbonate solvents to enable ion transport
- Cell format: cylindrical 2170-size cells produced by LG Chem
- Separator: microporous polymer layer to prevent short circuits between electrodes
- Packaging materials: metal canisters and current collectors (aluminum for the pack shell, copper for internal bus bars)
In summary, GM’s Bolt battery relies on widely used lithium-ion chemistry with LG Chem cells, integrated into modules and a pack designed for automotive use, supported by sensors and control systems to manage performance and safety.
Form factor and packaging
The Bolt’s energy storage uses cylindrical 2170-format cells arranged in modules that are then assembled into a larger battery pack. The pack is designed to fit within the vehicle’s underbody and is coupled to a thermal management system to maintain safe operating temperatures during charging and driving. A battery management system continuously monitors cell voltage, temperature, state of charge, and overall health to optimize performance and longevity.
Safety features and recall context
GM and LG Chem incorporate multiple safeguards in the Bolt pack, including thermal sensors, protective enclosures, fuses, BMS software, and a cooling system to mitigate overheating risks. The model line experienced a high-profile recall related to LG-supplied battery cells in 2017–2019 Bolt EVs, prompted by fire risk concerns. GM offered battery-module replacements and software updates to address the issue, underscoring the importance of supply-chain quality and robust safety systems in electric-vehicle battery design.
Summary
Chevy Bolt batteries consist of LG Chem-manufactured lithium-ion cells with NMC cathodes and graphite anodes, packaged in 2170 cylindrical cells that are organized into modules within a liquid-cooled battery pack. The system relies on a comprehensive battery-management setup and thermal management to deliver performance while prioritizing safety. The Bolt’s battery design reflects widely used industry choices, balanced against real-world safety considerations and recalls that have shaped ongoing improvements.
