General Motors (GM) is solidifying its position as a leader in both electric and gasoline-powered vehicle production, making substantial investments in manufacturing, infrastructure, and workforce development. Over the last five years, GM has emerged as the top investor in battery manufacturing and infrastructure among American automakers, fueling record growth in its electric vehicle (EV) segment.
According to recent data, GM’s U.S. EV sales surged by 50% in 2024, with its market share in the domestic EV sector doubling. Despite this progress in electrification, the company remains committed to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, supporting a workforce of approximately 90,000 U.S. employees who collectively generate $12 billion in taxable wages annually. Since 2014, GM has poured over $35 billion into its U.S. facilities to bolster vehicle production and technological advancements.
Industry-Wide Expansion in EV Manufacturing
A recent report by Atlas Public Policy and the BlueGreen Alliance Foundation titled “Tracking the State of U.S. EV Manufacturing” highlighted a massive industry-wide investment of $209 billion in EV manufacturing from 2000 through September 2024, resulting in an estimated 240,000 new jobs. GM alone contributed $17.6 billion to EV infrastructure, outpacing competitors like Ford, Stellantis, Rivian, and Tesla in capital investments during this period.
The report also found that 80% of the automotive industry’s domestic EV investment was concentrated in 10 states: Michigan, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Indiana, South Carolina, Nevada, Ohio, Kentucky, and California. GM has leveraged its partnership with the United Auto Workers (UAW) to train skilled workers through its extensive apprenticeship programs at more than 30 U.S. manufacturing facilities—more than any other automaker.
Challenges in Securing Critical Minerals
Despite its advancements, GM acknowledges the ongoing challenge of securing critical minerals for EV production. The Atlas report indicates that supply levels of essential materials, such as lithium, are still limited or moderate.
In response, GM has been proactive in securing North American-based raw materials while expanding its recycling initiatives. Recent strategic moves include:
- A multi-year, multi-billion-dollar deal with Vianode for synthetic graphite anode materials starting in 2027.
- A joint venture with Lithium Americas to develop the largest known lithium resource in the U.S. at Thacker Pass, Nevada.
- Partner MP Materials completing construction of its first rare earth metal, alloy, and magnet manufacturing facility in Fort Worth, Texas, with production set for late 2025.
- GM supplier e-VAC Magnetics beginning construction of a magnet production facility in Sumter, South Carolina, expected to start operations in early 2026.
Public Policy and Future Strategy
GM leadership emphasizes the role of public policy in fostering domestic manufacturing growth. Policies such as permitting reform and support for supply chain investments are deemed crucial to maintaining the U.S.’s leadership in the global automotive industry.
As the company moves into 2025 and beyond, it remains focused on building a secure, sustainable, and cost-competitive supply chain that benefits its business, employees, and customers. GM’s forward-thinking strategy continues to drive progress in the EV sector while maintaining a strong presence in traditional vehicle production, positioning the company at the forefront of the evolving automotive landscape.
