Toronto, Ontario — General Motors and LG Energy Solution have announced plans to commercialize lithium manganese-rich prismatic battery cells for GM electric trucks and full-size SUVs.
GM aims to be the first automaker to deploy LMR batteries in electric vehicles. Ultium Cells, the joint venture between GM and LG Energy Solution, plans to commence commercial production of LMR prismatic cells in the United States by 2028, with pre-production expected to begin at an LG Energy Solution facility by late 2027.
LMR battery cells utilize a higher proportion of manganese, a more affordable material compared to cobalt, while delivering greater capacity and energy density. Engineers at GM and LG Energy Solution say they have developed an LMR prismatic battery cell that offers 33 per cent higher energy density compared to the best-performing lithium iron phosphate-based cells, at a comparable cost.
By integrating LMR battery technology and the manufacturing and space efficiency benefits of prismatic cells, GM aims to offer more than 640 km (400 miles) of range in an electric truck while achieving significant battery pack cost savings compared to current high-nickel packs. This development is part of GM’s strategy to engineer individual batteries for each vehicle in its EV portfolio.
GM began researching manganese-rich lithium-ion battery cells in 2015, accelerating development by prototyping LMR cells at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren. In collaboration with partners, GM engineers advanced cathode materials, electrolytes, additives, form factors and cell assembly processes to address performance and durability challenges associated with LMR technology.
LG Energy Solution holds the largest LMR technology intellectual property portfolio globally, with over 200 patents in this field, reflecting extensive research and development efforts dating back to 2010. This collaboration reinforces strategic investments in domestic battery production and the responsible sourcing of critical materials like lithium, graphite, and manganese from North America
