The Chevy Volt uses a high-voltage lithium‑ion battery pack.
This rechargeable battery powers the Volt's electric drive and serves as the energy reservoir for its plug‑in hybrid system. The battery size and the car's all‑electric range varied between the first‑generation (2009–2015) and second‑generation (2016–2019) Volt models, with the car produced until 2019 and then discontinued.
Battery type and capacity
The Volt's battery evolved across generations; here are the key specs by generation.
- Gen 1 (2009–2015): a 16 kWh lithium‑ion battery pack enabling an EPA‑estimated electric range of about 35 miles on a full charge.
- Gen 2 (2016–2019): a larger 18.4 kWh lithium‑ion battery pack with an EPA‑estimated electric range around 53 miles on a full charge.
These shifts reflect GM's efforts to extend all‑electric range while preserving the Volt's hybrid versatility.
Chemistry, construction, and supplier
GM used a lithium‑ion battery pack built from modular cells, supplied by LG Chem, configured in prismatic cell modules and integrated with an active thermal management system to keep temperatures within safe operating ranges.
- Battery chemistry: lithium‑ion (Li‑ion).
- Cell format: prismatic cells arranged in modular packs.
- Supplier: LG Chem supplied the battery cells for Volt packs.
- Thermal management: an active liquid‑cooling system to regulate temperature during charging and discharging.
- Safety systems: battery management and protective controls to monitor voltage, current, and temperature.
These features together underpin the Volt's plug‑in hybrid performance, balancing electric range with the gasoline engine's generator for longer trips.
Charging and practical use
The Volt is charged via standard vehicle charging methods; it supports Level 1 (120‑V) and Level 2 (240‑V) charging with a J1772 connector. It does not support direct current fast charging, so longer trips rely on the onboard petroleum engine to extend range after the battery is depleted.
- Charging options: Level 1 and Level 2 charging available.
- Connector: J1772 standard plug.
In practice, drivers can use home charging for daily commutes and rely on the gasoline engine for extended range when needed.
Summary
The Chevy Volt uses a high‑voltage lithium‑ion battery pack, with a 16 kWh pack in the first generation and an 18.4 kWh pack in the second generation, supplied by LG Chem and cooled by an active thermal management system. This battery is central to the Volt's plug‑in hybrid design, delivering all‑electric range and then seamlessly transitioning to hybrid operation when the battery is depleted.
What kind of battery does a Chevy Volt have?
lithium-ion battery pack
The Volt concept car became the first application of the E-Flex propulsion system. This drivetrain comprises an electric motor, a lithium-ion battery pack, and a genset with a small combustion engine.
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Which years of Chevy Volt to avoid?
Stay away from the 2012, 2013, and 2017 models if you want to make the most of your investment and avoid paying for extensive repairs during your time as the owner of this unique vehicle. There are major issues with the Chevy Volt, such as battery leakages and potential fire dangers.
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Is it worth replacing an EV battery?
Fortunately, modern EV battery packs should prove problem-free for nearly the first decade of use—possibly even longer. By the time today's EVs will need a replacement battery pack, it's likely the manufacturing and material costs will be far less than they are today.
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Does the Chevy Bolt have an LFP battery?
The Chevy Bolt's biggest update for 2027 is its new lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and "X76" electric drive unit (pictured below).
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