General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) and LG Energy Solution are developing a new lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery cell designed to power GM’s future electric trucks and SUVs, the automaker said on Tuesday.
The company said the new cells will deliver higher energy density and lower costs, with US production expected by 2028.
Unlike current high-nickel batteries, LMR cells use more manganese, a cheaper and more abundant material, which could help extend EV range to over 400 miles while reducing battery costs.
GM said the new design is about 33% more energy-dense than today’s LFP cells at a comparable cost.
The cells will be built in a prismatic format, which simplifies manufacturing and helps cut weight and complexity.
Pre-production is slated to begin in late 2027 through the Ultium Cells joint venture, with final validation at GM’s upcoming Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, Michigan.
“We’re pioneering manganese-rich battery technology to unlock premium range and performance at an affordable cost, especially in electric trucks,” said Kurt Kelty, VP of battery, propulsion, and sustainability at GM.
“As we look to engineer the ideal battery for each vehicle in our diverse EV portfolio, LMR will complement our high-nickel and iron-phosphate solutions to expand customer choice in the truck and full-size SUV markets, advance American battery innovation, and create jobs well into the future.”
Wonjoon Suh, head of the Advanced Automotive Battery division at LG Energy Solution, added: “We’re excited to introduce the first-ever LMR prismatic cells for EVs, the culmination of our decades-long research and investment in the technology.”
Shares of GM traded higher following the announcement, up 1.6% at about $50.