GM and LG to develop prismatic battery cells for future electric vehicles

General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution are extending their existing 14-year partnership in battery technology to include the development of prismatic battery cells. This collaboration aligns with GM’s efforts to diversify its supply chain by using multiple battery chemistries and form factors to power its electric vehicles (EVs).

The new prismatic cell technology is expected to be integrated into GM’s future EVs. These cells, characterized by their flat, rectangular design within a rigid casing, provide space-efficient packaging. This configuration can potentially reduce EV weight and production costs while streamlining manufacturing processes. LG Energy Solution brings extensive expertise in prismatic cell production and holds numerous patents related to battery design, manufacturing, and packaging technologies.

Currently, GM utilizes its Ultium Cells facilities in Warren, Ohio, and Spring Hill, Tennessee, to produce pouch-style battery cells. These facilities support the increasing demand for GM’s EV lineup, including models such as the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and the GMC Hummer EV Pickup and SUV. The expanded partnership with LG Energy Solution is intended to complement and enhance these existing production capabilities.

GM is pursuing a technology-agnostic approach to battery development, aiming to balance range, performance, and charging speed across its EV portfolio. According to Kurt Kelty, GM’s vice president of battery cell and pack, the collaboration with LG Energy Solution supports the company’s goals of optimizing battery performance, enhancing safety, and reducing costs while creating advanced technology jobs in the U.S.

Wonjoon Suh, executive vice president of LG Energy Solution, emphasized the strong partnership with GM, highlighting their shared progress in advancing EV battery technology. Both companies aim to refine battery chemistries and form factors to foster continued growth in the EV market.