US automaker General Motors (GM) and South Korean battery producer LG Energy Solution (LGES) are preparing to commercialize lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery cells for use in GM's upcoming electric trucks and full-size sport utility vehicles (SUVs).
Ultium Cells, a GM–LGES joint venture, plans to begin LMR cell pre-production in late 2027 and start commercial output in the US by 2028, GM said Tuesday.
LMR cells replace costly cobalt with more affordable manganese, boosting both capacity and energy density.
The automaker aims to cut battery costs and exceed 400 miles of range by adding LMR technology to its high-nickel electric truck platform.
LMR technology integrates into GM's battery supply chain and manufacturing, strengthening US production and responsible sourcing of lithium, graphite, and manganese, GM said.
GM has an offtake deal with Lithium Americas for 100pc of Phase 1 battery grade lithium carbonate output from Thacker Pass, slated to finish construction by late 2027.
