GMC uses two kinds of batteries depending on the vehicle: a conventional 12-volt lead-acid battery for its gasoline-powered models, and GM's Ultium high-voltage lithium-ion battery packs for its electric vehicles such as the Hummer EV and Sierra EV.
Two tracks in GMC's battery lineup
For GMC's traditional gasoline-powered trucks and SUVs, the 12-volt battery provides the essential power for starting the engine and running accessories. In some newer trims and models with Stop-Start systems, an upgraded 12-volt AGM battery may be used to improve durability and electrical performance.
- 12-volt lead-acid battery: standard for most GMC ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, powering the starter and electronics when the engine is off.
- 12-volt AGM battery (where equipped): offers higher current capacity and better resilience for Stop-Start systems and heavy electrical loads.
These batteries cover the conventional side of GMC’s lineup, ensuring reliability across daily driving and towing duties.
Rising electrification: Ultium high-voltage packs
GMC’s electric models rely on GM’s Ultium battery platform, a modular, high-energy-density lithium‑ion system designed to scale across vehicles. The Hummer EV is the flagship BEV for GMC, using an 800‑volt Ultium pack with fast charging capability and a large capacity around 200 kWh. Other GMC BEVs, including forthcoming Sierra EV variants, will also ride on Ultium packs with multiple configuration options.
- Ultium battery packs: modular, pouch-cell based high‑voltage lithium‑ion packs produced by Ultium Cells LLC (a GM–LG Energy Solution joint venture).
- Voltage architecture: supports high‑voltage operation, including an 800‑volt system (as used by the Hummer EV) for rapid DC fast charging; other Ultium-based GMC models may use 400V‑800V configurations depending on design.
- Chemistry and cobalt usage: GM aims to reduce cobalt content and use nickel-rich chemistries to lower cost and reliance on scarce materials.
In short, GMC’s electrified lineup centers on GM’s Ultium technology, enabling greater range, faster charging, and scalable battery configurations as the brand expands its BEV portfolio.
Summary
GMC pairs two battery approaches: a traditional 12‑volt lead‑acid (often AGM) battery for its gas-powered models, and GM’s Ultium high‑voltage lithium‑ion packs for its electric vehicles, including the Hummer EV with an 800‑volt system and around a 200 kWh pack. This dual‑track strategy reflects GMC’s broader move toward electrification while maintaining familiar powertrains for its existing lineup.