General Motors’ Battery Breakthrough
General Motors (GM) is set to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) market with its new lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery chemistry. Scheduled to hit the roads in 2028, this innovation promises to make GM’s electric trucks and SUVs more affordable while offering extended ranges.
The LMR Advantage
LMR batteries represent a significant departure from the current nickel, manganese, and cobalt (NMC) formulation used in most EV batteries. By substantially increasing the manganese content and reducing cobalt and nickel, GM aims to lower material costs without compromising performance. The new chemistry is expected to be 33% more energy-dense than lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are commonly used in entry-level EVs.
Implementation Strategy
GM plans to deploy LMR batteries in mainstream trucks and SUVs, where range and cost are critical factors. The company will continue to use LFP batteries in entry-level vehicles and NMC batteries in specialty and premium models. According to GM’s estimates, the maximum ranges for its largest current battery packs are 490 miles with NMC, 350 miles with LFP, and over 400 miles with LMR.
Technical Specifications
The LMR cells, measuring 7.9 x 8.7 x 1.1 inches and weighing approximately 8 pounds each, will be used in vehicles like the Chevy Silverado EV. These prismatic cells are not only more energy-dense but also cheaper and easier to package than the pouch cells currently used in GM’s EVs. The adoption of LMR cells is expected to save “hundreds of pounds per vehicle,” according to GM battery engineer Andy Oury.
Competitive Edge
GM’s commitment to LMR battery technology is part of its broader strategy to drive down costs, improve performance, and reduce dependence on foreign materials. The company is investing heavily in its battery development facilities, including a 147,000-square-foot R&D space at the GM Technical Center in Warren, Michigan. With plans to test full-scale volume production on machines identical to those in its Ohio and Tennessee battery plants, GM is poised to achieve end-to-end control over its battery production.
Future Developments
While LMR batteries represent a significant step forward, GM is already looking to the next frontier: solid-state batteries. Although currently too expensive for mass production, solid-state batteries hold promise for future EV development. For now, GM’s focus remains on making EVs more affordable and accessible to the mass market.
With its planned rollout of LMR batteries in 2028, GM is set to take a leadership position in the EV market. The company’s efforts to build a robust battery ecosystem in North America, including increasing its supplier base and reducing reliance on foreign materials, are expected to drive the industry forward.
