What is the chemistry of the battery in the Chevy Bolt?
The Bolt’s battery is a lithium‑ion pack that uses nickel‑manganese‑cobalt oxide (NMC) chemistry.
In practice, GM’s Bolt battery is a high‑voltage, modular pack built from LG Chem cells. It has evolved from a 60 kWh configuration in early models to a 65 kWh variant in later versions, operates around a 400‑volt nominal system, and relies on liquid cooling and a battery management system to monitor temperature, state of charge, and health. Safety recalls in the early 2020s prompted upgrades to the modules, underscoring ongoing attention to battery safety in the model line.
Chemistry at a glance
Below are the core chemistry elements that comprise the Bolt’s battery pack.
- Cathode material: Nickel‑manganese‑cobalt oxide (NMC) — a layered LiNixMnyCozO2 composition
- Anode material: Graphite
- Electrolyte: Lithium salt in a carbonate‑based solvent
- Cell format and source: Modules built from lithium‑ion cells supplied by LG Chem (LG Energy Solution in newer branding)
- System voltage: Roughly 350–400 V nominal, reflecting a high‑voltage EV pack
In this arrangement, NMC cathodes balance energy density with power delivery and cycle life, while graphite anodes provide reliable charge storage. The cells are organized into modules within a cooling‑enabled pack, managed by GM’s battery control system to optimize performance and safety.
Impact on range, safety, and reliability
Understanding how this chemistry translates to real‑world performance helps explain the Bolt’s capabilities and the safeguards surrounding its use.
- Energy capacity across model years: about 60 kWh in early Bolts, with later models offering a 65 kWh variant for greater range
- EPA range expectations: roughly mid‑200s miles, varying by pack size, model year, and driving conditions
- Thermal management: active liquid cooling to maintain safe operating temperatures and preserve battery life
- Safety and recalls: a major recall in the early 2020s addressed a vulnerability in certain battery modules; GM replaced affected packs and worked with LG to implement improved modules
- Charging capabilities: compatible with DC fast charging and Level 2 charging, with performance tied to pack size and vehicle settings
These factors illustrate how the Bolt’s NMC chemistry, when paired with GM’s thermal management and safety controls, supports everyday usability while prompting ongoing safeguards and updates to address manufacturing and safety concerns.
Summary
The Chevrolet Bolt relies on a high‑voltage lithium‑ion battery built around nickel‑manganese‑cobalt oxide cathodes and graphite anodes, supplied by LG Chem. Its modular, liquid‑cooled pack has evolved from a 60 kWh to a 65 kWh configuration, delivering competitive range for its class while incorporating safety measures that have guided recalls and refinements in recent years. This chemistry, paired with GM’s battery management and thermal systems, defines the Bolt’s everyday performance and its ongoing emphasis on safety and reliability.
What is the battery chemistry of the new Chevy Bolt?
lithium-iron-phosphate
The new Bolt uses an LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery—translation: it's battery chemistry that's known for long life and more stable performance. The headline number: ~300 miles of estimated range, a big bump over the previous ~247 miles. More weekend runs, fewer outlet hunts.
What type of battery is in a Chevy Bolt?
The Chevy Bolt uses a large lithium-ion battery pack for its main propulsion, with capacities varying by model year (e.g., 60.0 kWh for 2017-2019 and 66.0 kWh for 2020-2023). The car also has a smaller 12V AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery to power the vehicle's accessories and start the high-voltage system. For future models, Chevrolet plans to switch to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry for improved stability and cost, though this may reduce energy density.
Main battery pack
- Technology: Lithium-ion
- Chemistry: Nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminum (NCMA) in current models
- Capacity: Varies by model year (e.g., 60.0 kWh or 66.0 kWh)
- Future: Future models are slated to use LFP chemistry
12V auxiliary battery
- Technology: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
- Purpose: Powers the car's 12-volt systems, such as lights, infotainment, and the main high-voltage battery contactors
- Specifications: Often a size like LN1, H4, or 140R
- Upgrade potential: Some owners upgrade to a 12V lithium battery for weight savings and other benefits
Does Chevy Bolt use an LFP battery?
The current range of Ultium battery cells utilize a nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminum (NCMA) chemistry, whereas the 2027 Bolt EV will adopt a new lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry. The new LFP batteries will be sourced from a supplier.
What is the chemistry of the Chevy EV battery?
The Ultium battery chemistry relies on a proprietary NCMA (nickel, cobalt, manganese, and aluminum) blend that balances energy density and cost-effectiveness.
