Ultium Cells LLC, the joint venture between General Motors and LG Energy Solution, announced plans to upgrade its battery cell manufacturing facility in Spring Hill, Tennessee, to support production of lower-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells. This expansion builds on the $2.3 billion investment committed in 2021. Conversion of select cell lines will begin later this year, with commercial output of LFP cells expected by late 2027.
GM’s flexible EV platform has been designed to accept multiple cell chemistries and form factors. While the Ultium Cells plant in Warren, Ohio, will continue producing nickel‐cobalt‐manganese‐aluminum cells—a chemistry that has enabled GM crossovers to exceed 300 miles of range—the Spring Hill upgrade will introduce LFP technology to reduce battery pack costs and broaden EV options for consumers.
“At GM, we’re innovating battery technology to deliver the best mix of range, performance, and affordability to our EV customers,” said Kurt Kelty, VP of batteries, propulsion, and sustainability at GM. “This upgrade at Spring Hill will enable us to scale production of lower-cost LFP cell technologies in the U.S., complementing our high-nickel and future lithium manganese rich solutions and further diversifying our growing EV portfolio.”
“The upgrade reflects the continued strength of our partnership with General Motors and our shared commitment to advancing EV battery innovation,” said Wonjoon Suh, executive VP and head of the Advanced Automotive Battery division at LG Energy Solution. “We will bring our extensive experience and expertise in U.S. manufacturing to the joint venture facility, further accelerating our efforts to deliver new chemistries and form factors that effectively capture the unmet needs in the EV market.”
“Ultium Cells’ additional investment and commitment to innovating and enhancing its Spring Hill operations is a testament to the state’s longstanding, cohesive partnerships, which started with General Motors, and grew to include LG Energy Solution in 2021, and we stand ready to continue supporting these companies and their joint venture for years to come,” said Stuart C. McWhorter, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
“We are grateful for the continued partnership and support we’ve received from the State of Tennessee as we continue to advance our lead in EV battery cell manufacturing,” said Kee Eun, President and CEO of Ultium Cells. “This investment expands our capabilities beyond a single battery cell chemistry, allowing us to produce new chemistries alongside our existing cells. Expanding our product portfolio ensures Ultium Cells will remain at the forefront of battery cell innovation and sustain our commitment to be a stable, long-term employer for the communities we serve.”
Source: GM Newsroom
