How are cells connected in series to make a 12-volt car battery?

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Cross-section diagram of an alkaline-manganese dioxide battery showing labeled internal components, including the steel-plated covers, cathode, anode gel, current collector, separator, steel can, and brass rivet. — battery Cutaway view of an alkaline–manganese dioxide power cell.

A 12-volt car battery is constructed using six individual voltaic cells, each providing approximately two volts of electromotive force. To achieve the total 12-volt output, these six cells are connected in series, which allows their individual voltages to add together.1

Within each of these two-volt cells, multiple positive and negative electrodes are connected in parallel. This parallel configuration increases the total surface area available for chemical reactions, which enables the lead-acid battery to deliver a larger current to the vehicle's electrical system.1