GM and LG Develop Advanced Lithium Manganese-Rich Batteries for 400-Mile EV Range

General Motors (GM) has announced a strategic partnership with LG Energy Solution to develop next-generation lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery cells designed for electric trucks and SUVs. This collaboration aims to enhance electric vehicle (EV) performance by delivering a safer, more energy-dense, and cost-effective battery chemistry compared to current technologies.

Traditional EV batteries typically use cathodes made from nickel, cobalt, and manganese (NCM). However, cobalt is expensive and associated with ethical concerns related to mining practices. GM's LMR batteries reduce cobalt dependency by increasing manganese content, a more abundant and affordable material, which also contributes to higher capacity and energy density.

The LMR cells utilize a prismatic form factor, which is more space-efficient and simpler to manufacture than cylindrical cells. This design enables GM’s future EVs to achieve up to 400 miles of range, a significant improvement over the current 300–320 miles offered by high-nickel batteries in models like the Chevrolet Bolt and Cadillac Lyriq.

GM plans to begin preproduction of these LMR batteries by late 2027 at Ultium Cells, a joint venture with LG. The final designs will be validated at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Michigan and LG’s facilities. This initiative is part of GM’s broader strategy to localize battery supply chains and reduce costs amid global trade uncertainties.

While LMR batteries face challenges such as potential capacity loss and thermal stability issues, GM engineers are confident that their innovations will mitigate these risks, ensuring performance comparable to existing high-nickel batteries even under extreme conditions.

This advancement is crucial for accelerating EV adoption by addressing two major barriers: driving range and vehicle cost. Batteries currently account for 30 to 40 percent of EV costs, so innovations like LMR chemistry and prismatic cell design can significantly lower prices and improve consumer accessibility.

As the EV market grows, GM’s investment in LMR technology exemplifies the industry's push toward sustainable, ethical, and economically viable battery solutions. This development not only enhances vehicle performance but also supports supply chain resilience by relying more on locally sourced materials.

In summary, GM and LG’s LMR battery initiative represents a significant leap forward in EV technology, promising longer ranges, safer operation, and reduced costs. This innovation will play a pivotal role in making electric trucks and SUVs more competitive and accessible in the coming decade.