General Motors (GM), in collaboration with LG Energy Solution, has unveiled a breakthrough in lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries, offering a range of up to 400 miles on a single charge. This advancement is driven by cells with a high manganese content.
The new LMR batteries are touted as a safer, more energy-dense, and cost-effective alternative to the current nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries. Their prismatic cell design simplifies manufacturing and optimizes vehicle layout, potentially reducing electric vehicle (EV) prices by 30–40%.
Despite these advantages, LMR technology faces challenges, such as capacity degradation and thermal instability. GM plans to address these issues through rigorous testing at its new Battery Cell Development Center in Michigan. Mass production will take place at Ultium Cells, with GM already having developed approximately 300 prototype cells that demonstrate improved energy density.
As automakers seek to reduce reliance on Chinese suppliers and lower costs amid potential trade restrictions, LMR batteries represent a significant step forward for GM. The company aims to bring these batteries to market by 2028.