General Motors and LG Energy Solution announced plans to commercialize lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells for upcoming GM electric trucks and full-size SUVs. This development marks a significant advancement in battery technology, building on the existing partnership between the two companies focused on prismatic cell technology and related chemistries.
GM aims to become the first automaker to implement LMR batteries in electric vehicles. The joint venture, Ultium Cells, is scheduled to commence commercial production of LMR prismatic cells in the United States by 2028, with pre-production activities expected at an LG Energy Solution facility by late 2027. The final production design of these LMR battery cells will be validated at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, Michigan, set to open earlier that year, alongside facilities operated by LG Energy Solution.
LMR battery cells utilize a higher proportion of manganese, a more cost-effective material compared to cobalt, while also offering increased capacity and energy density. The newly developed LMR prismatic cells deliver 33% higher energy density than the leading lithium iron phosphate (LFP) based cells, maintaining comparable costs. This enhancement is expected to contribute to GM’s electric truck platform, which currently boasts a leading range using high-nickel chemistry. By integrating LMR technology and the efficiency of prismatic cells, GM targets over 400 miles of range for its electric trucks and significant cost reductions in battery packs compared to existing high-nickel models.
“We’re pioneering manganese-rich battery technology to unlock premium range and performance at an affordable cost, especially in electric trucks,” said Kurt Kelty, VP of battery, propulsion, and sustainability at GM. “As we look to engineer the ideal battery for each vehicle in our diverse EV portfolio, LMR will complement our high-nickel and iron-phosphate solutions to expand customer choice in the truck and full-size SUV markets, advance American battery innovation, and create jobs well into the future.”
“We’re excited to introduce the first-ever LMR prismatic cells for EVs, the culmination of our decades-long research and investment in the technology,” said Wonjoon Suh, executive VP and head of the Advanced Automotive Battery division at LG Energy Solution. “GM’s future trucks powered by this new chemistry are a strong example of our shared commitment to offering diverse EV options to consumers.”
GM initiated research into manganese-rich lithium-ion battery cells in 2015 and has since advanced cathode materials, electrolytes, additives, form factors, and cell assembly processes to address performance and durability challenges. LG Energy Solution holds the largest global portfolio of LMR technology patents, reflecting extensive research efforts since 2010.
The integration of LMR battery technology into GM’s supply chain reinforces strategic investments in domestic battery production and the responsible sourcing of critical materials such as lithium, graphite, and manganese from North America.
Source: LGensol
