What type of battery does Chevy Bolt use?
The Chevy Bolt relies on a lithium‑ion battery pack supplied by LG Energy Solution (formerly LG Chem), built with nickel manganese cobalt oxide chemistry to deliver the energy needed for its electric propulsion.
Since its 2017 debut, the Bolt’s energy storage has evolved. The original model used a 60 kWh class pack with EPA range in the mid- to high‑200s miles, and later model years expanded capacity toward roughly 65 kWh gross to push the range closer to about 259 miles per full charge. The battery is arranged as modular pouch cells cooled by an active thermal management system, and GM’s long‑standing supplier relationship with LG Energy Solution has been central to the Bolt family’s energy storage strategy.
Key battery characteristics
Supply, chemistry, and configuration
The following points summarize the core attributes of the Bolt’s battery system and what they mean for performance and reliability.
- Battery type: Lithium‑ion (li‑ion) pack
- Supplier: LG Energy Solution (formerly LG Chem)
- Cell chemistry: Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC)
- Cell format: pouch‑style cells organized into modular packs
- Pack location: floor of the vehicle for a low center of gravity and balance
- Thermal management: active cooling/heating to maintain performance across climates
Understanding these elements helps explain how the Bolt delivers range, responds to charging, and maintains reliability in daily use.
Model-year changes and capacity
GM updated the Bolt’s energy storage over its lifecycle, with newer models adopting a larger pack to boost range while keeping the same essential technology and supplier arrangement.
- 2017–2019 Bolt EV: around a 60 kWh gross pack with EPA range in the upper 200s miles range depending on conditions
- 2020–2021: refinement of software and cooling systems with the same basic 60 kWh class pack
- 2022 onward: introduction of a larger pack configuration (roughly 65 kWh gross) in newer Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models, contributing to EPA ranges around 259 miles
In sum, the Bolt family shifted from an initial 60 kWh class pack to a larger (~65 kWh gross) configuration in newer models, maintaining LG as the primary supplier and preserving the lithium‑ion/NMC chemistry profile.
Summary
The Chevy Bolt uses a lithium‑ion battery pack supplied by LG Energy Solution (formerly LG Chem), built with NMC chemistry and pouch‑style cells. Over its run, GM increased the pack size from about 60 kWh to roughly 65 kWh gross in later models, delivering higher range while leveraging LG’s established technology and support. This battery design underpins the Bolt’s performance, charging behavior, and warranty framework.
Who supplies the batteries for the Chevy Bolt?
CATL
The automaker will source low-cost LFP batteries from CATL for about two years to support its next-gen Chevrolet Bolt production. The new model will be GM's most affordable EV, which can be expected to start around $30,000 and hit dealerships in 2026.
What is the lifespan of a Chevy Bolt battery?
A Chevy Bolt's battery can last 10–20 years or over 100,000 miles, with most owners not needing a replacement within the 8-year/100,000-mile warranty period. Factors like driving habits, climate, and charging habits significantly influence battery life. To maximize battery life, it's recommended to keep the charge between 20% and 80%, avoid frequent DC fast charging, and limit exposure to extreme temperatures.
This video explains how to monitor your Chevy Bolt's battery health and potential degradation: 53sThatJamesGuyYouTube · Jul 13, 2024
Factors affecting battery life
- Driving habits: Aggressive driving can reduce battery life compared to steady, highway driving.
- Climate: Extreme heat or cold can negatively impact battery performance and longevity.
- Charging habits:
- Avoid frequently charging to 100% or discharging below 20%.
- Limit the use of DC fast charging, as it can generate more heat than Level 1 or Level 2 charging.
- Age and condition: The battery's age and overall condition play a role in its lifespan.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance can help ensure the battery's components are working efficiently.
You can watch this video to see the results of an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on a Chevy Bolt EV battery: 58sTransport EvolvedYouTube · Jan 16, 2025
Tips for extending battery life
- Charge within the 20%-80% range: If possible, avoid charging to 100% or letting the charge drop below 20% for daily use.
- Minimize DC fast charging: Utilize slower Level 1 or Level 2 charging when you can.
- Park in a garage: This helps protect the battery from extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Drive smoothly: Maintain a consistent speed and avoid rapid acceleration and braking.
This video explains the Chevy Bolt's battery warranty and how it works: 55sEveryday EVYouTube · Aug 30, 2022
Warranty information
- All Chevy Bolt batteries come with an 8-year/100,000-mile limited warranty, which covers a certain level of battery health retention.
- This warranty is designed to ensure the battery remains functional for a significant period, even with normal use.
Does the Chevy Bolt have an LFP battery?
The 2027 Chevy Bolt is equipped with a 65kWh LFP battery with 255 mile range and a charging speed of 10%-80% in 25 minutes at 150kW on a DCFC (NACS charging port).
What type of battery is in a Chevy Bolt?
The maximum charging speed on the second-generation Bolt has been increased to 150 kW, and GM claims a 10-80% charge time of 26 minutes. The 65 kWh battery pack now uses lithium-iron phosphate chemistry, and GM claims 255 miles (410 km) of range.
