GM'sLast Word on Electric Vehicle Battery Strategy Mirrors China's Approach: Incredibly Affordable Cells
In a significant move to advance its electric vehicle (EV) battery technology, General Motors (GM) is collaborating with LG Energy Solution under the joint venture, Ultium Cells. Here's a comprehensive look at the timeline for the production of Lithium Manganese-Rich (LMR) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery cells.
### LFP Battery Cell Production
The transition to LFP cell production is scheduled to begin later this year or in late 2024, depending on the exact startup timing[1][3]. Commercial production of LFP cells is expected by late 2027[1][3].
### LMR Battery Cell Production
GM plans to start producing LMR batteries in 2028[5], with vehicles equipped with these batteries expected to hit the market at the beginning of 2028[5].
### Comparison and Strategy
LFP cells are expected to offer significant cost savings compared to high-nickel batteries, while LMR cells aim to provide a higher energy density at a comparable cost, potentially offering better range and efficiency[1][4]. GM's strategy involves diversifying its battery portfolio by integrating both LFP and LMR technologies, leveraging its flexible EV platform to accommodate various cell chemistries and form factors[3][5].
GM's new cell chemistry, "lithium manganese-rich" (LMR), is set to be introduced, with the first LMR cells coming off a pilot line in 2027, and full volume production slated for 2028[4]. The updated 2026 Chevrolet Bolt EV, set to be revealed within two to three months, is expected to use LFP cells imported from another LG plant for its first two years[6].
The cell plant at the Spring Hill complex, owned and operated by Ultium Cells, will produce LFP cells starting in late 2027[1][3]. Interestingly, LMR cells will be produced at the Ultium Cells plant in Warren, Ohio, due to Spring Hill producing LFP cells[2].
GM's strategic approach to battery technology is aimed at challenging the LFP dominance, particularly from China, by introducing LMR technology that promises better performance and cost-effectiveness[4][5].
It's worth noting that the intellectual property for the LFP cells GM will produce with partner LG Energy Solution is not owned by any Chinese entity[1].
The production of Ultium modules using NMCA cells has been delayed, pushing out deliveries of GM's EV lineup by 12 to 18 months, from late 2022 to early 2024[7]. Despite these delays, GM EV sales have risen steadily for three quarters, suggesting those troubles might be in the past[8].
A GM assembly plant in the same complex builds the Cadillac Lyriq and Acura ZDX electric SUVs[9]. The LMR cells provide one-third greater energy density than LFP cells in the same volume, at a comparable cell cost[1]. LMR chemistry is expected to be used in GM's EV lineup from this year through the early 2030s[4].
Kurt Kelty, GM's vice president of battery, propulsion, and sustainability, was hired in February 2024 after stints at Tesla and Panasonic[10]. The LMR cells will go into production in a Kansas plant before the end of this year[11].
In conclusion, GM is making significant strides in electric vehicle battery technology with its joint venture, Ultium Cells. The production of LFP and LMR cells is set to begin in the near future, providing a promising outlook for GM's electric vehicle lineup.
- General Motors (GM) is partnering with AI technology in its joint venture, Ultium Cells, to advance AI-driven electric vehicle (EV) battery technology.
- The collaboration aims to introduce Lithium Manganese-Rich (LMR) battery cells, which are expected to provide a higher energy density at a comparable cost.
- Business leaders are keenly watching GM's AI-driven efforts in the energy sector, particularly in the finance and investing arenas, as they could potentially disrupt the current battery industry landscape.
- To stay updated on these developments, consider subscribing to GM's newsletters for insights on their AI-driven battery technology and the future of the energy industry.
- As technology continues to evolve, AI is playing an increasingly essential role in various industries, including finance, energy, and business, posing new opportunities for growth and innovation.
