The Chevrolet Bolt EV’s battery management system deliberately undercharges the battery to 80% of theoretical capacity during normal operation, but the onboard computer hides this limitation from the driver by displaying the reduced capacity as 100%—meaning owners never actually access their full battery range, a deception implemented because engineers discovered that keeping lithium cells below full saturation extended lifespan by years, forcing GM to choose between honest range disclosure and long-term reliability by hiding the truth in the software.
Car Fact #121 — October 15, 2026
