General Motors and LG Energy Solution have announced plans to prepare prismatic lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) battery cells for mass production by 2028. The cells are intended for use in future electric pick-up trucks as well as SUVs from GM and are being developed as part of the Ultium Cells joint venture, which operates several production sites in the United States. A pilot operation is planned for the end of 2027, with cell validation taking place at GMʼs new development center in Warren, Michigan, among other locations.
Energy density around one third higher
LMR cells contain a higher proportion of manganese and significantly less cobalt than conventional cell types. This could lower raw material costs and reduce dependence on critical materials. According to GM, the cell chemistry enables around one-third higher energy density than lithium iron phosphate cells at similar costs. The prismatic design brings production and space advantages as well. The use of manganese-rich cell chemistry has often failed in the past due to insufficient cycle stability and thermal instability. However, GM and LG claim to have overcome these weaknesses with new materials and manufacturing processes.
Source:
https://news.lgensol.com/company-news/press-releases/3846/
