GM has taken the unprecedented step of recalling all Chevy Bolt vehicles. The previous recall affected only pre-2020 models. In, I'm guessing, a "better safe than sorry" stance, all Bolts, including the new Bolt EUV (forteground above) are recalled to replace battery packs (made by LG). Some of the batteries were found to have, in rare circumstances, two manufacturing defects – a torn anode tab and folded separator – are present in the same battery cell, which increases the risk of fire. GM is working with LG to increase production of new batteries to complete the recall which is expected to cost more than $1 billion. Until the battery packs are replaced, GM suggests that you:
- Set their vehicle to a 90 percent state of charge limitation using Target Charge Level mode. Instructions on how to do this are available on chevy.com/boltevrecall. If customers are unable to successfully make these changes, or do not feel comfortable making these changes, GM is asking them to visit their dealer to have these adjustments completed.
- Charge their vehicle more frequently and avoid depleting their battery below approximately 70 miles (113 kilometers) of remaining range, where possible.
- Park their vehicles outside immediately after charging and should not leave their vehicles charging indoors overnight.
This has been an ongoing saga that could tarnish the reputation and acceptance of EVs in general. Folks that are overly concerned about EV fire risk should remember that their ICE vehicle have a tank full of flammable liquids (aka Molotov Cocktail if you will). Click "read more" below to view the media releases. Customers can visit www.chevy.com/boltevrecall or contact the Chevrolet EV Concierge 1-833-EVCHEVY (available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.–midnight ET; Saturday and Sunday from noon–9 p.m. ET) or contact their preferred Chevrolet EV dealer. Chevy has halted Bolt production due to the chip shortage. Are they waiting for new batteries so that new vehicles don't need to be recalled? With introductions of new EVs from Cadillacs to GMC, I guess GMs new Ultium batteries can't get here soon enough. (Below is a pic of GM's latest Ultium powered platform as a point of reference.)
Source: GM - Media releases (2), pic
