Samsung SDI has acquired General Motors’ 49.99% stake in their SynergyCells joint venture, becoming the sole owner of the battery cell manufacturing plant under construction in New Carlisle, Indiana, US.
The companies are ending their joint-venture structure amid weaker-than-expected electric vehicle demand, while continuing collaboration on next-generation prismatic battery cells through a joint development agreement.
The ownership shift could allow Samsung SDI to adjust the Indiana facility toward the growing energy storage system (ESS) market, giving it greater control over production capacity, product mix and investment decisions. Meanwhile, GM can reduce its exposure to battery manufacturing costs while retaining access to future battery technology.
GlobalData noted that stronger US battery storage demand, alongside moderating EV growth, is reshaping battery manufacturers’ capacity strategies. The move also comes as companies expand domestic production to meet US content and incentive requirements.
Samsung SDI’s full ownership of the Indiana facility could provide greater flexibility to serve both EV and ESS applications, particularly as prismatic battery cells gain traction due to their high energy density and suitability for large-scale storage systems.
