South Korean battery manufacturers LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI are reportedly planning to set up production lines for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells in their joint ventures with General Motors in the United States. Until now, both companies have focused on nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) cells. According to industry sources, the switch is being made at the automakerʼs request, as it aims to offer its electric vehicles at a lower price by using more cost-effective batteries.
Change to prismatic cell formats?
LG Energy Solution is reportedly planning to convert parts of its Ultium Cells production facilities in Tennessee and Ohio to manufacture LFP cells. The plants went into operation in 2022 and 2024, respectively, and have been producing NCM-based pouch cells. However, LG and GM are reportedly considering switching to prismatic cell formats, which are better suited structurally to LFP chemistry. Samsung SDI is said to considere similar measures in its 3.5-billion-dollar joint venture with GM in Indiana, which was originally intended exclusively for NCM cells. The plant is scheduled to begin operation in 2027.
Five out of seven GM models to have LFP
Through these changes, GM is currently segmenting its vehicle portfolio: Five of GMʼs seven electric vehicle models will be equipped with LFP batteries in the future. Only the higher-priced models – the GMC Hummer EV and the Cadillac Lyriq – will continue to use the more powerful NCM cells.
Source:
https://www.kedglobal.com/batteries/newsView/ked202505270006
