Chevy's Latest Bolt Software Update Is A Band-Aid On A Gaping Wound

Nov. 28, 2021 9:34 AM ET byKarl Furlong Industry News /2 Comments

But it should appease some customers until the recall is complete.

It's been a rough couple of months for owners of theChevrolet Bolt EV. A recall was issued because Bolt batteries posed a fire risk, and many customers found this out the hard way byignoring fire warnings. The recall affects 2017-2019 model year Bolts and even led to Bolts beingdenied access to some airportsas the fire risk was simply too high. While General Motors finally gets to work replacing Bolt batteries, it has announced a software update for 2019 Bolts that will temporarily remove some of the restrictions placed on owners. For example, owners were advised not to park indoors or charge their cars overnight.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet

Chevrolet

In a statement sent toElectrek, the automaker said the following: "As battery module replacements continue under the previously announced recall, Chevrolet has informed owners of 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EVs who have not yet received their replacement battery modules that it will begin installation of a software update which will remove the parking and charging limitations."

As this software update only applies to 2019 Bolts, for the time being, the automaker said that other Bolt EV andBolt EUVowners who own cars that form part of the recall will also be able to receive the update sometime over the next 30 days.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet

Although the software update will limit the total range by another 10 percent - down from the previous 90% - to a maximum state-of-charge of 80%, owners can now discharge the battery fully if necessary. This will give owners the best possible EV experience while lowering the fire risk, at least until the batteries in their cars can be replaced. GM chose to start with 2019 Bolts as these models are at a higher risk than others. In September, production of the Bolt EV's batteries resumed after being stalled. Owners will be required to take their vehicles to a dealership for the latest software update.