SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 4, 2024 – General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution (LGES) are strengthening their long-standing partnership to develop advanced battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs). This expanded collaboration will focus on prismatic cell development, further diversifying GM's battery supply chain and paving the way for future EVs with improved performance, safety, and cost-efficiency.
Prismatic Cells: A Key to Enhanced EV Performance
Prismatic cells, with their flat, rectangular shape and rigid enclosure, offer several advantages for EV battery packs:
- Space Efficiency: Allows for compact packaging within battery modules, maximizing space utilization.
- Weight Reduction: Contributes to lighter EVs, improving efficiency and range.
- Cost Reduction: Simplifies manufacturing and reduces the number of components, leading to lower costs.
LGES brings extensive experience in prismatic cell production and a robust patent portfolio in battery design and manufacturing to this partnership.
GM's Technology-Agnostic Approach
GM is committed to a technology-agnostic approach to battery cell development, focusing on optimizing range, performance, and charging speed for its EVs. This collaboration with LGES on prismatic cells complements GM's existing Ultium Cells joint venture, which produces pouch battery cells.
"Together with LG Energy Solution, we’ve built Ultium Cells into one of the largest battery cell manufacturers in North America, creating thousands of advanced technology jobs in the U.S. and powering our diverse EV portfolio,” said Kurt Kelty, GM vice president of battery cell and pack.
A Shared Vision for EV Advancement
Both GM and LGES are committed to driving innovation in the EV battery space.
“We’re focused on optimizing our battery technology by developing the right battery chemistries and form factors to improve EV performance, enhance safety, and reduce costs," said Kelty. "By extending our partnership with LG Energy Solution, we’re taking an important step toward these goals.”
Wonjoon Suh, executive vice president and head of LGES's Advanced Automotive Battery division, expressed enthusiasm for the expanded partnership, stating, "LG Energy Solution is proud to be expanding its relationship with one of its strongest partners. Together with GM, we’ve already made tremendous progress. We look forward to deepening our collaboration to drive the right chemistry and battery combinations for continued growth in the EV market.”
Powering GM's EV Portfolio
Ultium Cells, the joint venture between GM and LGES, currently produces pouch battery cells that power a range of GM's EVs, including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and the GMC HUMMER EV Pickup and SUV.
A Continued Commitment to Innovation
The expanded partnership between GM and LGES signifies their commitment to advancing EV battery technology and driving the transition to a more sustainable automotive future. By diversifying its battery cell portfolio and embracing innovation, GM is well-positioned to deliver exceptional electric vehicles that meet the evolving needs of consumers.