General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution (LGES) have announced a significant advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology with the development of lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells. This breakthrough aims to power GM’s upcoming electric trucks and full-size SUVs, offering enhanced performance and affordability.
The new LMR battery cells boast a 33% increase in energy density compared to the best-performing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, while maintaining comparable costs. This improvement is expected to provide over 400 miles of range on a single charge for electric trucks, addressing consumer concerns about range anxiety and cost.
Production of these LMR prismatic cells is scheduled to commence in the United States by 2028, with pre-production starting in late 2027 at an LGES facility. The final production design will be validated at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, Michigan.
The LMR technology reduces reliance on expensive materials like cobalt and nickel by utilizing a higher proportion of manganese, which is more abundant and cost-effective. This shift not only lowers production costs but also addresses environmental and ethical concerns associated with cobalt mining.
Kurt Kelty, GM’s Vice President of Battery, Propulsion, and Sustainability, stated, “We’re adopting flexible chemistries for the best balance of range, performance, and affordability.” He emphasized that achieving cost parity with internal combustion engine vehicles is crucial for widespread EV adoption.
This collaboration between GM and LGES marks a significant step toward advancing EV technology and making electric vehicles more accessible to consumers. By pioneering LMR battery cells, GM aims to lead the industry in offering affordable, long-range electric trucks and SUVs.
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