General Motors (GM) has unveiled a new battery chemistry known as lithium-manganese-rich (LMR), boasting significant cost reductions while offering a driving range close to that of current high-end batteries. Kurt Kelty, GM’s vice president for battery propulsion and sustainability, stated that LMR technology enables the company to achieve over 400 miles of range in its trucks, while substantially lowering battery costs.
One of the key advantages of LMR is its reduced reliance on nickel and cobalt, both of which are limited in supply within the United States. Currently, the Chevrolet Silverado EV utilises nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells, achieving an impressive range of 492 miles on a full charge, albeit at a premium price starting from over $73,000. While GM plans to introduce a cheaper version using lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cells—cutting costs by $6,000—it would suffer a range reduction to 350 miles. The LMR technology promises to maintain the affordability of LFP cells without compromising range significantly.
LMR cells will consist of 60% to 70% manganese, 30% to 40% nickel, and only 0% to 2% cobalt, marking a significant reduction compared to existing NMC batteries, which can contain as much as 10% cobalt and 80% nickel. Historically, manganese-rich batteries have faced issues with rapid degradation, but GM claims to have overcome these challenges through innovative material and manufacturing strategies.
In terms of design, GM plans to use prismatic cells instead of the pouches currently used in its Ultium batteries, which could reduce battery pack components by over 50%, leading to substantial cost savings. GM envisions LMR technology extending across its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, filling a crucial gap in the market while relegating LFP to entry-level offerings and keeping NMC for high-performance applications requiring longer ranges.
The LMR cells will be manufactured by Ultium Cells, a joint venture between GM and LG Energy Solution, which has committed billions to battery production in the US. Both GM and LG have pursued LMR technology for years, with GM holding over 50 related patents. However, there is potential for LG to develop its own version of LMR cells independently of GM’s patents.
GM’s research on LMR has been ongoing for a decade, intensifying over the past two years. They have successfully produced about 300 large-format cells, with testing equivalent to 1.5 million miles of standard driving. The company aims to adapt its manufacturing facilities for the new chemistry and ramp up production ahead of its 2028 target.
Kelty expressed confidence in achieving this goal, citing strong performance metrics, established manufacturing partners, and a more localised supply chain compared to high-nickel or LFP battery technologies. The convergence of these factors underscores GM’s commitment to rapid progress in LMR battery development.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
Watch more about AI – Artificial Intelligence
