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USA Today
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
10 EVs that aren't Tesla and still turn heads
Drivers can choose from many EVs that aren't Tesla – Photo courtesy of piranka / E+ The rise of the electric vehicle, or EV, has been a long time coming. While it may seem like a 21st century innovation, the first basic electrified vehicle dates back to the late 1820s. Over the past two centuries, car manufacturers have iterated and innovated upon the original concept. Today, EVs continue to make strides in popularity and market share. While one company has driven much of the widespread adoption, many electric cars that aren't Tesla are turning heads. 'There's been a big increase in the variety of models and brands to choose from, including several different body styles,' says Edmunds' senior consumer advice editor Ronald Montoya. Also, as the number of public car-charging stations grows, EVs have become more practical. "Several models allow you to either charge less in the week or pay fewer visits to charge stations on a road trip,' Montoya adds. Variety aside, 'Electric vehicles can be less expensive to own and operate because electricity costs less than gasoline most of the time, and because they have fewer moving parts, which means less maintenance,' says Sean Tucker, lead editor of Kelley Blue Book. 'They can also be more fun to drive than gas-powered cars, as a gasoline engine spools up power gradually over a few seconds, whereas an EV instantly has 100% of its power available.' Advertisement To help you pick the right EV, we asked Montoya and Tucker for their take on the best electric cars beyond Tesla. Whether you're looking for a sports EV, one for family, commuting, or just a cool one, these recommendations have you covered. Chevrolet Equinox EV Chevrolet Equinox EV is a perfect crossover for commuters – Photo courtesy of Chevrolet MSRP: Starting at $33,600 Fuel economy: Up to 117 MPGe Advertisement The Chevrolet Equinox EV is a fantastic crossover option for city commuters. Tucker notes that this compact, affordable car is excellent for urban drivers and gives access to Chevrolet's massive nationwide repair network should anything go wrong. The roomy interior and quiet drive make for a pleasant experience, whether a passenger or behind the wheel. Kia EV9 Kia EV9 is a best EV pick for families – Photo courtesy of Kia MSRP: Starting at $54,900 Fuel economy: Up to 89 MPGe Advertisement Large families may want to check out the Kia EV9, which has plenty of practical space and a distinctive, futuristic look. Whether in the first or third row of this electric vehicle, you'll feel like you can stretch out, and we always appreciate a quiet, smooth ride. Plus, the EV9 charges quickly, making charging stops relatively short. Rivian R1T Rivian R1T is an excellent EV choice that isn't a Tesla – Photo courtesy of Rivian MSRP: Starting at $69,900 Fuel economy: Up to 93 MPGe Advertisement The midsize Rivian R1T proves you can drive a pickup truck without an internal combustion engine. With excellent off-road capabilities and a spacious storage bed, you get several traditional benefits of a truck with much more attractive mileage. You get from 0 to 60 mph in about 3 seconds, depending on your engine configuration. Fiat 500e The Fiat 500e is a zippy little EV for city drivers – Photo courtesy of Fiat MSRP: Starting at $32,500 Fuel economy: Up to 121 MPGe Advertisement If affordability is at the top of your list of concerns, the Fiat 500e is a great pick. Not only are there great lease deals, but the brand also offers an Employee Pricing PLUS Program. This compact car is a charming city option with fast-charging and efficient performance. The retro design makes the Fiat stand out. Ford Mustang Mach-E Mustang Mach E is one of the coolest EVs out there – Photo courtesy of Ford MSRP: Starting at $37,995 Fuel economy: Up to 111 MPGe Advertisement As Ford's first fully electric vehicle, the Mach-E is a cool car. It doesn't read like a Ford. (You'll only see the distinctive oval logo at the top of the windscreen.) Instead, it looks more like the car of the future. You can tailor the appearance of the Mach-E with paint colors like Molten Magenta and enjoy comfortable, spacious interiors and a sporty drive feel. MINI Countryman SE ALL4 Electric SUV MINI Countryman SE ALL4 Electric is a fun EV option for SUV drivers – Photo courtesy of MINI MSRP: Starting at $45,200 Fuel economy: Up to 99 MPGe Advertisement It feels like fun is at the heart of all Minis, which is certainly the case with the Countryman SE Electric SUV. While this crossover is undoubtedly cute, it's also speedy, making this an excellent option for folks needing speed. Steering is generally well-regarded in this vehicle, making it ideal for navigating traffic. GMC Hummer EV GMC Hummer EV is beast for off-roading – Photo courtesy of GMC MSRP: Starting at $96,550 Fuel economy: Up to 59 MPGe Advertisement For an off-roading EV, you'll want to go with a Hummer. While the GMC Hummer EV isn't necessarily as fuel-efficient as others on this list, it's competent when handling rough terrain. And thanks to its large size, it's also an incredibly comfortable ride, even when traversing bumps and dips. Hyundai Ioniq 6 The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is one of the best-rated EVs – Photo courtesy of Hyundai MSRP: Starting at $37,850 Fuel economy: Up to 151 MPGe The undeniably cool design of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 makes this EV a conversation piece. But it's not just looks — the impressive range and performance at a relatively affordable price point have made this Hyundai a favorite among critics and drivers alike. The sporty design also means this car has a low center of gravity, making for easier handling. Advertisement Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition The Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition is an EV with style – Photo courtesy of Stellantis MSRP: Starting at $72,790 Fuel economy: Up to 104 MPGe The latest Jeep Wagoneer S Launch may be the Jeep of the future. It's the only full EV from the brand, and certainly doesn't compromise on that must-have Jeep four-wheel drive and power (packing 600 horsepower thanks to twin engines). The car reads luxury with a McIntosh audio system and massaging seats, and gets up to 60 mph in less than 3.5 seconds. BMW i5 The BMW i5 is a luxury EV pick for serious car lovers – Photo courtesy of BMW MSRP: Starting at $67,100 Advertisement
Digital Trends
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- Digital Trends
Cheaper EVs ahead? GM and LG say new battery cells are the key
General Motors and LG Energy Solution have announced a new phase in their ongoing partnership: developing a new battery cell chemistry that could significantly lower the cost of electric vehicles. The joint effort centers on lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) battery cells, a variation of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) that's gaining popularity for being more affordable and less reliant on expensive materials like nickel and cobalt. This is a big deal because battery costs are still the single largest expense in producing EVs. According to GM and industry experts, LMFP cells could help bring the cost of electric vehicles close to — or even on par with — gas-powered cars. The goal? Making EVs accessible to a broader range of drivers without sacrificing range or performance. Recommended Videos GM plans to use these LMFP batteries in future Ultium-based EVs, its modular electric platform that underpins models like the Chevrolet Equinox EV and Blazer EV. Those models are priced starting around $35,000–$50,000 — still noticeably higher than GM's most popular internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles like the gas-powered Equinox and Silverado, which often start closer to $28,000 and $36,000, respectively. If LMFP batteries can knock down those EV prices, that gap could shrink fast. This would be key to helping GM hit its long-term EV adoption targets while maintaining profitability. Unlike some pricier battery chemistries, LMFP batteries are more stable and cost-efficient, especially when produced at scale. GM and LG say production of these new cells will happen in the U.S., supporting domestic supply chains and eligibility for tax incentives. In short, this partnership isn't just a science experiment — it's a step toward solving one of the EV market's biggest roadblocks: affordability. If successful, it could mark a turning point in the electric era, where choosing an EV no longer means paying a premium.
Miami Herald
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Every Major Automaker's EV Roadmap: What to Expect by 2030
Electrification was and is the tsunami that eclipsed autonomous driving as the next big wave in the automotive industry. Despite the slowing growth rate that began in 2024, there's no stopping the onslaught of EVs globally. This easily counts as the automotive industry's biggest transformation since the invention of the assembly line. With tightening emissions regulations, shifting consumer demands, and intensifying global climate targets, automakers are racing to electrify their lineups. There are still obstacles such as battery technology, infrastructure challenges, and EV adoption behaviors, but every major automaker is still on board with EVs. While some legacy brands have pared their growth plans back, others are still committed to going fully electric in the not-too-distant future. As we approach the end of the decade, here's a detailed look at what every major automaker has planned for their electric vehicle lineup by 2030. GM has been one of the most vocal about its EV ambitions. GM initially planned to reach 1 million EV production capacity in North America by 2025, but that target is in question due to slowed production timelines. By 2030, the automaker aims to offer 30 all-electric models globally, with more than two-thirds of them available in North America. GM plans to expand its EV lineup, including models from Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC, all underpinned by the Ultium battery platform. The Chevrolet Equinox EV has found great success and is one of the best-selling EVs in the U.S. market today. Target by 2030: Over 1 million EVs sold annually in North America; the majority of the vehicle portfolio electrified. Ford's EV plans have changed to be more conservative given changes in the market, but its plans are still ambitious. By 2030, the company wants 50% of its global sales to consist of EVs. A new EV platform is in development, and Ford is building two huge battery plants in the U.S. through its BlueOval SK joint venture. Ford is also focusing on a new platform for smaller, less expensive EVs based on what buyers want. The automaker will launch a mid-size electric pickup truck in 2027 as the first affordable vehicle using the platform, and is also investing in battery technology to lower costs and expand U.S. battery production. Ford even plans to launch a new electric commercial van in 2026 and expand its commercial vehicle lineup to be fully zero-emission capable. Target by 2030: 50% of its global vehicle sales to be fully electric. 40–50% of its U.S. vehicle sales to be electric (including BEV, FCEV, and PHEV). Stellantis has been struggling of late, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a plan for its expansive suite of brands, which includes Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, and Fiat. Stellantis has a complex and ambitious EV strategy, and it has to make up for some pretty big losses over the past year. The company has committed to launching 75 battery-electric vehicles globally by 2030, with 25 EVs aimed for the U.S. market. Ambitiously, it aims for 100% of sales in Europe and 50% in the U.S. to be EVs by 2030. Jeep has already revealed EVs like the Recon, Wagoneer S, and the recently dropped electric Compass, while Dodge debuted its Charger muscle car electric, but with poor results. Ram will join the EV truck space with the 2026 Ram 1500 REV. Target by 2030: 50% EV sales in the U.S., 100% in Europe. Toyota/Lexus has been pretty cautious when it comes to full battery-electric vehicles. Its only current EV offerings are the bZ4x (bZ for 2026) and the RZ. However, the company has signaled a shift, announcing plans for 10 global models by 2027, 30 models by 2030, and an investment of $70 billion in electrification. Its battery investment includes the development of solid-state batteries with extended range and faster charging capabilities, and plans to begin mass production around 2030. Toyota is also betting on solid-state battery tech, which could dramatically increase range and reduce charging times. Target by 2030: Toyota aims for 70% of its new vehicle sales in the U.S. to be electrified, encompassing hybrids, PHEVs, BEVs, and FCEVs. 30 BEV models by 2030. Honda plans to phase out internal combustion engines (ICE) in major markets by 2040, with a more gradual EV rollout leading up to 2030. It has announced 30 new EV models globally by 2030, with an annual production capacity of 2 million units. The Honda Prologue SUV (built in partnership with GM) marks the brand's first serious EV effort for North America, and it has become one of the best-selling EVs in America in a very short time. Honda is also developing a new global EV platform dubbed e:Architecture for models launching later this decade. Honda had planned for Acura to lead its EV charge, with 60% of its sales to be electric by 2030, but the market shift has led Acura to slow its electric roll and reintroduce hybrids, which it wanted to bypass on its path to EVs. Target by 2030: 2 million EVs annually; 30 EV models globally. Hyundai Motor Group is one of the most aggressive Asian automakers when it comes to EVs. They have proven themselves in the real world, too. With brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, the group plans to sell 3 million EVs per year by 2030 and launch 31 new EV models across its brands. In 2024, Hyundai sold 61,727 EVs in the U.S. The company's IONIQ 5 was one of the best-selling EVs, with 44,400 models sold. Kia was close with 56,099 electric vehicles sold in the U.S. last year. The IONIQ 7, IONIQ 9, and the Kia EV4 will be coming soon, while Genesis currently has three EV models: the GV60, the Electrified GV70, and the Electrified G80. It plans to get more all-electric new vehicles on the road in the next few years, potentially bringing an electrified G70 sedan, and attain carbon neutrality by 2035. Target by 2030: 3 million EVs per year; 31 EV models globally. The Volkswagen Group was taking some big hits last year with the interruption of its ID.4 production, but it's back up to speed and selling like hotcakes in 2025. VW Group, which includes VW, Audi, and Porsche, plans to become the world's top EV seller by 2030. It plans to launch numerous new EV models, develop more affordable EVs, and expand its EV production capacity. VW is also investing heavily in battery cell production and charging infrastructure. The group is aiming for 70% of its European sales and 50% of its U.S. and China sales to be EVs by the end of the decade. Porsche now needs to boost profits, given the slipping sales of its once popular Taycan. The all-electric Macan has been a hit, but it's not yet clear when the electrified 718 lineup will arrive. Target by 2030: Half of global sales electric; Europe at 70%+ EV penetration. Mercedes's original plan was 100% electrification of its entire lineup by 2030. The company now expects sales of electrified vehicles, including hybrids, to account for up to 50% of its sales volume by 2030, essentially amounting to a five-year shift of its forecast for 2025. In 2021, the plan was to hit the 50% mark by 2025. The EQ family-EQE, EQS, and EQB-is expanding, and Mercedes is developing new EV platforms for cars, SUVs, commercial vans, and performance models. However, its large electric SUV platform has been put on hold as the company is also investing in solid-state battery tech and fast-charging networks. Target by 2030: 50% of total global sales of electrified vehicles, including hybrids. BMW's goals include fully electric vehicles accounting for approximately 50% of its global sales by 2030, along with its broader commitment to reduce CO2 emissions by 80% and meet long-term sustainability goals. To achieve this, BMW is expanding its electrified product lineup and developing a new generation of electric vehicles using the dedicated Neue Klasse EV platform. The German automaker also acknowledges the continued demand for gas and plug-in hybrid vehicles, thus taking a more flexible approach to EV adoption. That said, it still wants Mini and Rolls-Royce to be 100% electric. Target by 2030: 50% of global BMW sales will be EVs; Mini and Rolls-Royce brands will be fully electric. Nissan was an early EV pioneer with the LEAF, but it has since been overtaken by rivals and is struggling to find an EV partner now that Honda has bowed out. Nissan is placing electrification at the heart of its long-term strategy, dubbed Nissan Ambition 2030, with plans to invest 2 trillion yen (~$13.5 billion) over the next five years to accelerate both its vehicle electrification and technology innovation efforts. In response to growing customer demand for a diverse and exciting vehicle lineup, the company will launch 27 new electrified models-including 19 EVs-by 2030 with the goal of 55% electrification (hybrids, PHEVs, EVs) across Nissan and Infiniti. The Ariya SUV is the first major product from Nissan's next-generation EV portfolio. Nissan has cancelled plans to build two electric sedans in the United States and will instead focus on electric SUVs. A new LEAF is also finally on the way in the form of an SUV. Target by 2030: 55% EV mix globally; 100% of new models in key markets to be fully electric Volvo Cars originally planned to sell only fully electric vehicles by 2030, and it was working ambitiously toward that goal. However, Volvo has since revised its EV strategy, admitting that a full transition to electric vehicles may not be attainable in five years. By 2030, Volvo now expects 90 to 100% of its global sales to consist of electrified vehicles, including both EV and PHEV models, with a small percentage of mild hybrid assist vehicles potentially making up the remaining 10%. Target by 2030: 90 to 100% EV mix globally, which will include both EVs and PHEVs. Electrification is a reality, but there have been some market hiccups on the road to some pretty ambitious goals. That doesn't mean manufacturers are taking their foot off the accelerator, but the pace has slowed. While challenges like charging infrastructure, raw material shortages, and consumer adoption remain, the direction is still very much electric. Some are ahead of the game, others are catching up, and then there are those who will get left behind. For consumers, the next five years will bring a wave of new EV options across every segment-from entry-level hatchbacks to luxury sedans and rugged pickup trucks. Whether every automaker meets its 2030 goals remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the electric future is no longer a question of if, but rather how fast. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
GM Q1 Earnings Call: Management Focuses on Tariff Mitigation and Supply Chain Adaptation
Automotive manufacturer General Motors (NYSE:GM) reported Q1 CY2025 results exceeding the market's revenue expectations , with sales up 2.3% year on year to $44.02 billion. Its non-GAAP profit of $2.77 per share was 3.9% above analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy GM? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $44.02 billion vs analyst estimates of $42.85 billion (2.3% year-on-year growth, 2.7% beat) Adjusted EPS: $2.77 vs analyst estimates of $2.66 (3.9% beat) Adjusted EBITDA: $5.21 billion vs analyst estimates of $6.07 billion (11.8% margin, 14.2% miss) Operating Margin: 7.6%, down from 8.7% in the same quarter last year Free Cash Flow Margin: 9.6%, up from 0.9% in the same quarter last year Sales Volumes rose 1.8% year on year (3.7% in the same quarter last year) Market Capitalization: $47.7 billion General Motors' first-quarter results were shaped by ongoing policy changes and the company's efforts to adapt its global supply chain. On the earnings call, CEO Mary Barra highlighted actions taken to increase U.S. manufacturing capacity, including raising full-size pickup production and reducing reliance on imported materials. Management also pointed to continued growth in both internal combustion engine and electric vehicle segments, with notable market share gains for new SUV models and the Chevrolet Equinox EV. CFO Paul Jacobson attributed margin pressures to higher fixed costs and warranty expenses but emphasized disciplined pricing and inventory management as key supports for financial performance. Looking ahead, leadership outlined a cautious approach to 2025 guidance, citing a $4-5 billion tariff impact from recent U.S. policy changes. Management described plans to offset roughly 30% of this headwind through cost controls, supply chain realignment, and efforts to raise U.S. content in vehicles. Barra stated, "We are developing plans to further increase U.S. vehicle production," while also focusing EV investments on efficiency rather than portfolio expansion. The team underscored the importance of supply chain resilience, ongoing dialogue with policymakers, and disciplined capital allocation as the company navigates a complex policy and economic environment. General Motors' management cited several operational shifts and external factors as drivers of first-quarter performance and near-term strategy. The company is balancing increased U.S. manufacturing, supply chain adjustments, and evolving trade policies to protect margins and market share. Tariff Policy Adaptation: Management described swift actions to mitigate exposure to new U.S. tariffs, including increasing U.S. production and sourcing more components domestically. CEO Mary Barra noted the company raised full-size pickup output at its Fort Wayne plant and is working with suppliers to boost U.S. content and USMCA compliance. EV Production Moderation: To align with consumer demand, General Motors has slowed the pace of electric vehicle production. This approach is intended to avoid excess inventory and heavy discounting, with EV investments now targeted at cost reductions and efficiency instead of expanding the portfolio. Supply Chain Resilience: The company referenced its ability to quickly recover from an external supplier fire, limiting the disruption to vehicle output. Management also stressed long-term efforts to secure battery materials and reduce direct material spend from China, positioning for evolving global risks. Warranty and Cost Pressures: CFO Paul Jacobson acknowledged increased fixed costs and specific warranty expenses, such as addressing quality issues in certain engine models. However, management expects warranty costs to become a tailwind later in the year, aided by ongoing quality and cost initiatives. Market Share Gains: Management highlighted strong U.S. sales growth, with nearly two points of market share gained year-over-year. New product launches in SUVs and pickups, as well as increased EV sales, contributed to these gains and supported the company's disciplined pricing strategy. Management's outlook centers on adapting to new U.S. trade policies, strengthening the domestic supply chain, and maintaining pricing discipline in a competitive environment. Strategic investments in both ICE and EV segments are balanced with cost controls to address tariff impacts and shifting market demand. Tariff Mitigation Initiatives: General Motors plans to offset approximately 30% of tariff-related costs through supply chain adjustments, cost reduction targets, and increased U.S. content in its vehicles. The company is reviewing discretionary spending and working with suppliers to improve compliance with trade agreements. Disciplined EV Strategy: Management will moderate EV production to match consumer interest, focusing investments on cost efficiency and profitability rather than expanding the EV lineup. This approach is intended to avoid inventory build-up and maintain competitive margins. Capital Allocation and Cost Focus: The company reiterated its commitment to disciplined capital expenditures, maintaining capex within previously stated ranges despite the need for manufacturing shifts. Management intends to prioritize high-return investments while pausing additional share repurchases until greater operating certainty is achieved. Itay Michaeli (TD Cowen): Asked about the timeline for implementing tariff offsets and the pace of supply chain changes; management said mitigation will take time, with pricing, cost measures, and footprint adjustments progressing in parallel. Joe Spak (UBS): Questioned the breakdown of tariff mitigation and whether pricing assumptions include further increases; CFO Paul Jacobson clarified that current pricing levels are assumed to hold, and offsets come from operational changes and cost discipline. Emmanuel Rosner (Wolfe Research): Inquired about the sustainability of cost reductions and the potential for fixed cost cuts in EV investments; Mary Barra confirmed evaluations are ongoing but emphasized compliance with current regulatory requirements. Dan Levy (Barclays): Asked about managing vehicle volumes given a significant portion is assembled outside the U.S.; management highlighted excess U.S. capacity and flexibility to adjust production locations as needed. Daniel Roska (Bernstein): Raised concerns about suppliers passing on higher costs due to tariffs; Barra expressed confidence in collaborative supplier relationships and ongoing efforts to drive efficiency rather than margin expansion by suppliers. As we assess General Motors' execution in coming quarters, our analysts will watch (1) the pace and effectiveness of tariff mitigation and supply chain localization, (2) the ability to sustain pricing and manage inventory without resorting to incentives, and (3) continued market share gains, particularly from new SUV and EV launches. Progress on U.S. battery sourcing and regulatory developments will also be key markers of strategic success. General Motors currently trades at a forward P/E ratio of 4.6×. Should you load up, cash out, or stay put? The answer lies in our free research report. Market indices reached historic highs following Donald Trump's presidential victory in November 2024, but the outlook for 2025 is clouded by new trade policies that could impact business confidence and growth. While this has caused many investors to adopt a "fearful" wait-and-see approach, we're leaning into our best ideas that can grow regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate. Take advantage of Mr. Market by checking out our Top 5 Growth Stocks for this month. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 176% over the last five years. Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Exlservice (+354% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
WIRED
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- WIRED
GM's New Battery Tech Could Be a Breakthrough for Affordable EVs
May 13, 2025 10:00 AM General Motors has cracked the chemistry of lower-cost, energy-dense electric vehicle batteries. Budget-conscious gasoline holdouts may soon have no excuse. Photograph: Steve Fecht for General Motors General Motors is bringing in potentially groundbreaking new battery tech that not only has 30 percent more energy density at the existing production cost for cells, but would also circumvent China's stranglehold on intellectual property for EV batteries. The company even claims this new type of battery pack could lower the cost of its electric SUVs so they're comparable to their gasoline counterparts. The news came today as GM has announced it will use lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery cells in its largest electric vehicles, the full-size trucks and SUVs sold by Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac. They are to be produced by Ultium Cells, its joint-venture battery company with LG Energy Solutions. The first such cells will come from a pilot line in 2027, with full volume production in 2028 at a plant it hasn't yet disclosed. The new cells are in the prismatic format, versus Ultium's current pouch cells, which use a nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminum (NCMA) chemistry. Those cells, in large standardized modules, power GM's entire current EV lineup, from the compact Chevrolet Equinox EV all the way up to the GMC Hummer EV. The new prismatic cells appear even larger than Ultium's pouch cells, though GM did not provide dimensions. They will be housed in modules that, overall, have 50 percent fewer parts than their predecessors. That may prevent delays like those that delayed volume production of its Ultium modules by 12 to 18 months, pushing deliveries of several models from late 2022 to early 2024. Lower Cost, Higher Energy Density A full-size prototype GM LMR battery cell. GM has apparently prototyped 300 full-size LMR cells to crack the code on the new chemistry that offers up a third more energy density at no extra production cost. Photograph: Steve Fecht for General Motors Crucially, GM claims its Ultium battery engineers have created a chemistry that provides one-third greater energy density than comparable lithium iron-phosphate (LFP)—at a comparable cell cost. China owns virtually all the intellectual property around LFP chemistry, which costs less in materials than NMCA because it uses none of those metals. The tradeoff for lower cost is lower energy density by volume. The earliest NMC cells used roughly equal thirds of nickel, manganese, and cobalt. GM's current 'high-nickel' Ultium cells swapped out much of that cobalt for nickel, while adding aluminum as well. They use, said GM battery engineer Andy Oury, roughly 5 percent cobalt and 10 percent manganese, with the rest being nickel and aluminum. The LMR cells, however, substitute manganese—which is cheaper and more globally plentiful—for some of the pricier nickel and virtually all of the cobalt. They are, Oury said, 60 to 70 percent manganese, 30 to 40 percent nickel, and only up to 2 percent nickel. The new chemistry, in a second type of cell, will also use a new module format. Standardized Ultium NMCA modules for every vehicle were the right solution for GM to launch its current lineup of 12 different EV models, its execs said. Going forward, the company envisions using different chemistries for different purposes: NMCA for high-performance and its most capable models, now LMR for long range at lower cost, and LFP for its least expensive models. Cheap Long-Range Electric SUVs and Trucks So if LMR chemistry actually produces a cell that costs as little to make as LFP with greater energy density, that could be a game changer—including for North American competitiveness against China in the critical sphere of battery development and production. 'LMR will complement our high-nickel and iron-phosphate solutions to expand customer choice in the truck and full-size SUV markets,' said Kurt Kelty, GM's vice president of battery, propulsion, and sustainability. It will, he said, 'advance American battery innovation, and create jobs well into the future.' A battery technician at the General Motors Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, Michigan takes a chemistry slurry sample. Photograph: Steve Fecht for General Motors Specifically, LMR packs will lower the cost of some full-size EV truck and SUV models to bring their prices closer to those of their gasoline counterparts. That's crucial to boosting sales of the full-size EV models, which have not so far reached the same volumes and market penetrations as those of GM's compact and midsize EV crossovers. GM has said little about its plans for cells using the third chemistry, lithium-iron phosphate. However, the upcoming 2026 Chevrolet Bolt EV—a reboot of the compact hatchback that was its first and only battery-electric model from 2017 through 2022—has long been expected to use LFP cells to keep its price close to the $30,000 level of earlier models. Expect more details within weeks or months. Tesla's Ex-Battery Chief at Work Hiring Kelty was a coup for GM, given his previous 11-year tenure as Tesla's battery czar—and 15 years before that with Japanese cell maker Panasonic. He told WIRED he arrived at GM with 'some preconceptions' about what directions the company should take for its cells going forward. He was, he said, initially resistant to the idea of using LMR cell chemistry, but GM's own battery engineers had worked on developing the chemistry since 2015—and persisted in their advocacy. LMR's clear advantages, Kelty said, ultimately brought him around. Its cell partner LG Energy Solutions brought its own portfolio of more than 200 LMR patents dating back to 2010 to the table, and this week's announcement is the result. A GM battery technician aligning electrodes on an anode sample for a prototype LMR battery cell. Photograph: Steve Fecht for General Motors 'LMR' is not yet an industry-standard term for the battery chemistry; following the formats of the other two, it should really be 'LMN,' for lithium-manganese-nickel. Regardless of name, GM hopes to be the first to bring it to market in volume. Ford used the same term and beat GM to the punch on the PR front when Charles Poon, its global director of electrified propulsion engineering, published a LinkedIn post in late April. That post said Ford had developed 'a game-changing battery chemistry that will lead to enhanced safety, lower cost and industry-leading energy density' it was working to integrate into Ford electric vehicles 'within this decade'. GM's LMR announcement, while later, specified the year 2028.
