Looking to understand how GM’s new battery technology could impact electric vehicle range, cost, and sustainability? General Motors (GM) has announced a breakthrough in battery chemistry that promises to deliver electric vehicles (EVs) with a range of up to 400 miles per charge—all thanks to lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells. This innovative battery development, in collaboration with LG Energy Solution, could revolutionize electric trucks and SUVs by offering greater energy density, enhanced safety, and significant cost savings, all while reducing reliance on expensive materials like cobalt.
GM’s latest move comes amid growing competition in the EV market and a global push for cleaner, more affordable energy solutions. The automaker plans to begin commercial production of its LMR battery technology in the U.S. by 2028, aiming to be the first to integrate this chemistry into its lineup of electric trucks and SUVs. While Ford has similar plans, its rollout won’t begin until 2030—giving GM a critical first-mover advantage.
By shifting from traditional nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries to manganese-rich compositions, GM addresses two major industry challenges: high material costs and ethical concerns surrounding cobalt mining. Cobalt, often referred to as the “blood diamond of batteries,” is not only expensive but also fraught with human rights violations. LMR cells, on the other hand, utilize more abundant and affordable manganese, reducing both production costs and ethical risks.
LMR cells aren’t just cheaper—they’re smarter. Their prismatic shape allows for better space efficiency inside battery packs, translating to longer driving ranges in vehicles. According to GM engineers, this new battery design can boost range to around 400 miles, compared to the 300–320 miles typically seen in current high-nickel batteries used in Chevy and Cadillac EVs.
Moreover, these prismatic cells are easier and less complex to manufacture than cylindrical alternatives, making them an attractive choice for large-scale production. This could help GM—and the industry at large—lower EV prices, a crucial factor in accelerating mass adoption.
Battery packs are among the most expensive components in an electric vehicle, accounting for 30 to 40 percent of the total cost. By drastically cutting down on material expenses and simplifying production, LMR batteries could make EVs more affordable for everyday consumers, thereby increasing market penetration and overall demand.
According to GM’s VP of batteries, Kurt Kelty, “This is the biggest lever we have... If you can drop [battery costs] down significantly like we’re doing here, then it ends up being a lower cost to the consumer.”
Production of the new battery cells will be handled by Ultium Cells, GM’s joint venture with LG. Preproduction is set to begin in late 2027, with full-scale manufacturing expected by 2028. GM will validate the battery design at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, Michigan, and at LG’s own facilities.
The company is also leaning into supply chain localization, with an emphasis on securing more battery materials domestically. This move is especially important given increasing trade tensions and potential tariffs on Chinese imports—China currently dominates 70% of global lithium-ion battery production.
While promising, LMR battery technology isn’t without hurdles. These batteries can experience capacity loss and thermal degradation over time, which could potentially impact vehicle range and safety. However, GM says its engineers have made significant strides in resolving these issues, ensuring that the new LMR batteries perform on par with high-nickel cells, even under extreme temperature conditions.
With over a decade of research into manganese-rich lithium-ion technologies and more than 300 full-size prototypes developed, GM is confident in the scalability and durability of this next-gen solution.
One of the largest barriers to widespread EV adoption remains cost. Consumers continue to weigh the high upfront price of EVs against long-term fuel and maintenance savings. GM’s LMR battery strategy addresses this directly—by using cheap, abundant materials and streamlining manufacturing, the company aims to produce EVs at a price point competitive with traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Additionally, the improved 400-mile range removes a major concern among potential EV buyers: range anxiety. The combination of affordable pricing, longer range, and faster production timelines positions GM to potentially lead the next phase of the EV revolution.
With Tesla exploring cobalt-free alternatives and Ford planning its own LMR rollout by 2030, GM’s 2028 target could give it a significant edge. Automakers are not just competing on range or design—they’re racing to control battery supply chains, reduce EV costs, and meet emissions regulations faster than their rivals.
As U.S. policymakers look to decrease reliance on Chinese imports and increase domestic EV manufacturing, GM’s localization of LMR battery production aligns with both economic and political priorities. This makes GM not only a tech innovator but a key player in shaping the future of American energy independence.
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