GM and LG Energy Solution to lead in development of LMR battery cell technology

General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution are leading the way in innovative battery cell technology with the commercialization of lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells. This partnership signifies a significant breakthrough in the field of battery technology for electric trucks and full-size SUVs. The collaboration between GM and LG Energy Solution aims to pioneer new developments in prismatic battery cell technology and related chemistries, continuing GM’s tradition of American innovation that has brought forth groundbreaking technologies such as the small-block V8 engine, OnStar connected vehicle services, and hands-free Super Cruise.

GM is poised to be the first automaker to implement LMR batteries in electric vehicles (EVs). Ultium Cells, a joint venture between GM and LG Energy Solution, is set to commence commercial production of LMR prismatic cells in the United States by 2028, with preliminary production scheduled to begin at an LG Energy Solution facility in late 2027. The final design and production of these LMR battery cells will be validated at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, MI, and LG Energy Solution’s facility.

The composition of battery cathodes typically includes cobalt, nickel, and manganese, where cobalt is the most costly material. LMR battery cells utilize a higher proportion of economically viable manganese while delivering increased capacity and energy density. GM and LG Energy Solution’s battery engineers have developed a groundbreaking LMR prismatic battery cell that enhances energy density by 33% compared to the top-performing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, all at a comparable cost.

GM’s electric truck platform already boasts industry-leading range through high-nickel chemistry. With the integration of LMR battery technology and the efficiency advantages of prismatic cells in manufacturing and space utilization, GM aims to offer electric trucks with over 400 miles of range while achieving substantial cost savings in battery pack production compared to current high-nickel packs.

Kurt Kelty, VP of battery, propulsion, and sustainability at GM, emphasized the company’s commitment to utilizing manganese-rich battery technology to enhance range and performance at an affordable cost, particularly in electric trucks. Similarly, Wonjoon Suh, Executive VP of LG Energy Solution’s Advanced Automotive Battery division, underscored the shared commitment to consumer choice in offering diverse EV options through GM’s future trucks powered by the new LMR chemistry.

GM began its research on manganese-rich lithium-ion battery cells in 2015, culminating in the prototyping of LMR cells at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren. Through collaborations with partners, GM engineers refined cathode materials, electrolytes, additives, and assembly processes to address performance and durability challenges associated with LMR technology.

LG Energy Solution possesses an expansive LMR technology intellectual property (IP) portfolio globally, securing over 200 patents in this area. The company’s deep expertise in LMR technology is the result of extensive research dating back to its first patent on LMR chemistry in 2010. The integration of LMR battery technology into GM’s supply chain and cell manufacturing processes highlights ongoing investments in domestic battery production and sustainable sourcing of essential materials like lithium, graphite, and manganese from North America.

Overall, the collaboration between GM and LG Energy Solution signifies a transformative step forward in battery cell technology, promising enhanced performance, increased energy density, and substantial cost savings in electric vehicle production. This advancement reinforces GM’s commitment to innovation and sustainable transportation solutions for the future.