In a landmark move toward the future of electric mobility, General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution (LGES) have announced the commercialization of lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells, marking a major battery technology breakthrough aimed at powering GM’s upcoming electric trucks and full-size SUVs.
The announcement signals GM’s ambition to become the first automaker to deploy LMR batteries in electric vehicles, promising a leap in performance, affordability, and sustainability. The new battery cells—developed jointly by GM and LGES—boast 33% higher energy density than the best lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, all while maintaining a comparable cost.
Ultium Cells, the GM-LGES joint venture, will spearhead commercial production of these LMR prismatic cells in the United States by 2028, with pre-production scheduled to begin by late 2027 at an LGES facility. The final production design will be validated at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, Michigan, expected to open earlier that year.
“We’re pioneering manganese-rich battery technology to unlock premium range and performance at an affordable cost, especially in electric trucks,” said Kurt Kelty, GM VP of battery, propulsion, and sustainability.
“LMR will complement our high-nickel and iron-phosphate solutions, expand customer choice, and advance American battery innovation.”
Unlike traditional EV batteries that rely heavily on expensive cobalt and nickel, LMR cells use a higher ratio of manganese, a more affordable and abundant element. This new chemistry delivers a superior balance of energy density, cost-efficiency, and performance, especially critical for large EV platforms like trucks and SUVs.
GM’s current electric truck platform already offers segment-leading range using high-nickel chemistry. With the integration of LMR batteries and the manufacturing efficiencies of prismatic cell formats, GM aims to deliver over 400 miles of range while significantly reducing battery pack costs.
“GM’s future trucks powered by this new chemistry are a strong example of our shared commitment to offering diverse EV options,” said Wonjoon Suh, Executive VP at LG Energy Solution.
“We’re excited to introduce the first-ever LMR prismatic cells for EVs, a result of our decades-long research and investment.”
GM began exploring manganese-rich lithium-ion technologies as early as 2015, accelerating development through its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center. The company, in partnership with LGES, has worked to overcome legacy durability and performance issues through advancements in cathode materials, electrolytes, and cell design.
LG Energy Solution, a pioneer in this field, holds the world’s largest LMR-related IP portfolio with over 200 patents dating back to its first filing in 2010.
The introduction of LMR technology strengthens GM’s domestic EV supply chain, aligning with its strategy to source lithium, graphite, and manganese responsibly from North America while creating new clean energy jobs.
This innovation positions GM and LGES at the forefront of next-generation EV battery technology, providing a competitive edge in the race for affordable, high-range electric vehicles. As global demand for electric trucks and SUVs rises, the LMR battery promises to redefine what’s possible in cost, range, and performance.
