GM rolls out software update limiting Chevy Bolt EV charge to 80%, but removes parking restrictions
Summary
GM announced that it is starting to roll out a new software update to Chevy Bolt EVs as part of its recall due to battery fire risks. For months, we have been reporting on the mounting pressure to have GM recall the Bolt EV after several cars caught on fire while charging. On top of recalling the vehicles and replacing the battery modules, GM started to push new software updates to the fleet to limit the state-of-charge in order for it not to go over 90% or below 70 miles. GM told Electrek that their research points to this solution mitigating the fire risk while giving owners a more normal experience until they can replace the battery modules. Owners have to take their cars to the dealership in order to receive the new software update, which GM says also comes with better diagnostic tools to detect problems with the battery pack.