General Motors and LG Energy Solution have collaborated to develop a groundbreaking lithium manganese rich (LMR) battery chemistry that is set to revolutionize the electric truck industry. The new batteries are expected to debut on GM’s models in 2028, offering extended driving range and reduced costs.
Electric vehicle batteries currently come in various chemistries, with nickel manganese and cobalt (NMC) being the most common. Some batteries also incorporate aluminum (NCMA), while lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries are gaining popularity due to their cost advantages. GM’s LMR cathode chemistry aims to combine the benefits of NMC and LFP, providing over 400 miles of estimated range for their electric trucks. Additionally, the LMR batteries are said to offer 33% more energy density and comparable cost advantages to LFP.
GM’s electric vehicles already boast impressive range figures, with the Chevy Silverado EV Work Truck rated for 492 miles on the EPA cycle. The large 205-kWh battery in the Silverado EV contributed to its remarkable range, surpassing 539 miles in independent testing. Even the more affordable Chevy Equinox EV can cover 319 miles on a single charge.
Despite the impressive range figures, the heavy and bulky battery packs pose challenges for handling and efficiency. GM’s LMR cells, designed in a prismatic format, aim to address these issues by reducing pack-level parts by 50% and simplifying the structure. The prismatic cells are expected to offer significant packaging advantages, potentially saving “hundreds of pounds” in weight.
Kurt Kelty, GM’s vice president of battery, propulsion, and sustainability, highlighted the significance of LMR technology in expanding the electric truck market and providing more access to customers. The new LMR batteries will require fewer components and offer better energy density, thanks to their innovative design.
While GM has not yet scaled up production of LMR batteries, the technology shows promise in reducing costs and improving performance. By relying less on expensive materials like nickel and cobalt and emphasizing the use of abundant manganese, GM aims to make electric vehicles more affordable and accessible to consumers.
In conclusion, GM’s collaboration with LG Energy Solution to develop LMR batteries represents a significant step forward in the electric vehicle industry. With the potential to enhance driving range, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, the LMR batteries are poised to revolutionize the future of electric trucks. General Motors (GM) has been making significant strides in developing its next-generation battery technology for electric vehicles. The company’s latest innovation is the Low-Cobalt Manganese-Rich (LMR) battery cells, which are expected to contain 0-2% cobalt, 30-40% nickel, and 60-70% manganese that will be locally processed.
In 2020, GM ramped up the development of LMR cells and made a substantial investment of $85 million in the manganese supplier, Element 25. The company plans to process these materials in the United States at a facility in Louisiana, marking a significant step towards domestic production of electric vehicle batteries. Although initially sourced from Australia, GM is now committed to manufacturing these cells locally.
Fast forward to 2025, GM has successfully tested the LMR cells in its research and development labs, simulating the equivalent of 1.5 million miles of electric vehicle driving. Mark Kelty, GM’s spokesperson, expressed confidence in the new battery technology, stating that it will be a game-changer for electric trucks and will set a new standard for performance in this vehicle segment.
Kelty further emphasized GM’s partnership with LG Energy Solution (LGES) in bringing this innovative battery technology to the market. He highlighted the readiness of the technology and the practical application it offers, ensuring that consumers will soon see these LMR cells powering electric trucks on the roads.
The development of the LMR battery cells represents a significant milestone for GM in its journey towards sustainable mobility and reducing the environmental impact of transportation. By investing in advanced battery technology and local processing capabilities, GM is paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient future for electric vehicles.
In conclusion, GM’s commitment to developing and commercializing LMR battery cells underscores its dedication to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. With the support of strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology, GM is poised to lead the charge towards a greener transportation future.