The Future of EV Battery Innovation
As the global push for sustainable transportation accelerates, battery innovation is at the forefront of electric vehicle (EV) development. Automakers and energy leaders are investing in advanced chemistries to reduce costs, increase range, and improve supply chain security. General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution are leading this transition with their introduction of lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells, set to power GM’s future electric trucks and SUVs. This new technology aims to offer greater energy density and affordability while strengthening domestic production.
GM and LG Energy’s Collaborative Breakthrough
Building on a longstanding partnership, GM and LG Energy Solution plan to commercialize LMR prismatic cells by 2028. Initial pre-production will begin in late 2027 at an LG facility, with final validation at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Michigan. The new LMR battery cells promise up to 33% higher energy density than traditional lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, making them a game-changer for electric trucks and full-size EV SUVs. This move marks GM’s ambition to become the first automaker to launch LMR technology in EVs, pushing the envelope in both innovation and performance.
Benefits of LMR Battery Chemistry
One of the standout features of LMR cells is their reduced reliance on expensive materials like cobalt. Instead, they utilize a greater share of manganese—an abundant and cost-effective element. The result is a battery that combines high energy output with reduced production costs. GM’s high-nickel chemistry already delivers class-leading range, and the addition of LMR will allow electric trucks to exceed 400 miles per charge. The prismatic form factor also improves space efficiency, leading to compact, high-capacity battery packs.
Strategic Manufacturing and Sustainability Goals
GM and LG’s LMR technology integrates seamlessly into GM’s domestic battery supply chain. It supports goals for responsible material sourcing from North America and promotes job creation through local manufacturing. GM began LMR research in 2015 and refined the technology at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center. LG Energy Solution, with over 200 LMR-related patents, brings deep expertise to the collaboration. Together, these companies are setting a new standard in EV battery performance, sustainability, and cost efficiency.
Expanding Consumer Choice in the EV Market
With this advancement, GM aims to diversify its EV lineup by offering more choices to consumers. LMR will complement its existing iron-phosphate and high-nickel solutions, creating a tailored approach to battery deployment across vehicle types. For electric trucks and full-size SUVs—where range, durability, and cost are crucial—LMR provides a powerful solution. As the EV market evolves, GM and LG Energy Solution’s leadership in battery technology is poised to shape the next generation of sustainable mobility.
