Latest news with #LMR
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
LGES, Samsung to produce LFP batteries in the US with GM
South Korean electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturers LG Energy Solution (LGES) and Samsung SDI Company have agreed to install lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production lines at their respective joint venture plants with General Motors (GM) the US, according to reports in South Korea citing people familiar with the matter. LGES' joint venture with GM, called Ultium Cells LCC, currently has two battery plants in the US, in Tennessee and Ohio, which were completed in 2024 and 2022, respectively, and produce high-nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries. GM has requested that some of the production lines be switched to cheaper LFP battery cells, to help lower its battery electric vehicle (BEV) production costs and allow it to offer a broader range of battery options in its BEVs in the North American market. GM hopes to lift its BEV sales in the region by offering both types of batteries in its vehicles, with the more expensive nickel-rich NCM batteries used mainly in its premium BEVs and LFP batteries used in its mass-market models, giving it access to a broader customer base. The US automaker is understood to be planning to offer LFP batteries in five of its seven existing BEV models, including the Chevrolet Bolt, Equinox, Blazer and Silverado EV. LGES and GM are also developing lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries, which are expected to offer good performance characteristics while retaining the low-cost advantages of LFP batteries. Ultium Cells is expected to begin production of LMR batteries in 2028. Samsung SDI has also agreed to switch some production lines at its joint venture plant in Indiana. The facility, which is scheduled to become operational in 2027, was originally designated to produce only NCM batteries, but will now also produce the cheaper LFP battery cells. "LGES, Samsung to produce LFP batteries in the US with GM" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. 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
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
GM, LG Energy target commercializing manganese-rich batteries for EVs
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Battery engineers at General Motors and its joint venture partner LG Energy Solution have developed an improved lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cell design for the company's future electric vehicles, the automaker announced in a May 13 press release. The LRM battery chemistry uses a higher percentage of lower-cost manganese to replace Cobalt, a critical raw material for EV batteries, making them less costly to produce while still delivering high energy density. GM aims to be the first major automaker to deploy LMR batteries in EVs. Its Ultium Cells joint venture with LG Energy plans to start commercial production of the battery cells in the U.S. by 2028 for full-size electric trucks and SUVs. GM's current EV models use nickel manganese cobalt aluminum oxide (NMCA) batteries, which contributes to improving driving range, but are costlier manufacture. LRM battery chemistry, on the other hand, can help GM make its future EVs more affordable. A high nickel battery cell typically consists of roughly 85% nickel, 10% manganese and 5% cobalt, according to GM. But LMR cells contain around 35% nickel, 65% manganese, and 'virtually no cobalt,' which can significantly reduce costs. In addition, GM says its LMR prismatic battery cell design has 33% higher energy density compared to the best-performing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) or manganese cobalt aluminum oxide (NMCA) cells used in many EVs on the road today, and at a comparable cost. The new LRM battery cells are not intended to replace GM's current batteries. Rather they will be used for some electric models along with high-nickel and iron-phosphate cells for others. According to GM, the lower cost LRM prismatic cell batteries will primarily be used to expand customer choice in the electric truck and full-size SUV markets. 'We're pioneering manganese-rich battery technology to unlock premium range and performance at an affordable cost, especially in electric trucks,' said Kurt Kelty, VP of battery, propulsion, and sustainability at GM, in the release. 'As we look to engineer the ideal battery for each vehicle in our diverse EV portfolio, LMR will complement our high-nickel and iron-phosphate solutions.' GM is targeting driving ranges of over 400 miles for its full-size electric trucks and SUVs equipped with LRM batteries, while achieving significant cost savings compared to today's high-nickel battery cells the automaker is currently using. The automaker said it began researching LRM battery cells a decade ago, which included prototyping cells at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, Michigan. The automaker accelerated its research in 2020 as its engineers collaborated with partners including LG Energy to achieve advancements in battery cathode materials, electrolytes, additives, form factors and assembly processes. GM said researchers overcame LMR's limitations in performance and durability that made them impractical for commercial use, according to the company. 'We've worked with our suppliers to optimize the materials in our LMR cells, adding proprietary dopants and coatings, along with particle engineering, process innovations, to achieve the right energy density and arrangement of battery materials inside the cell to keep them stable,' said Kushal Narayanaswamy, director of advanced battery cell engineering at GM, in a May 13 blog post. By the end of 2024, GM said its researchers coated roughly one metric ton of LMR cathode material at the company's Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center, which included testing hundreds of large format prismatic cells in 18 different prototypes and three cell dimensions. In total, the tests were equivalent to 1.4 million miles of EV driving, according to GM. Unlike the 4680 cylindrical cell format used by Tesla for the Model Y, prismatic cells can be stacked closer together inside an EV's battery pack. Their flat design uses less space compared to cylindrical cell batteries, leading to higher energy density, as more cells can fit into each EV battery pack. The cells can also better dissipate heat for improved cooling performance with an outer case typically made of aluminum. 'That makes them substantially more efficient to package in full-scale trucks and SUVs,' Narayanaswamy said. Prismatic cells also require fewer components to assemble battery packs, which contributes to lower costs. The design can reduce battery module components by 75% and total pack components by 50%, according to GM. Pre-production of LRM battery cells is expected to begin at an LG Energy Solution facility by late 2027. The final cell design will be validated at GM's new Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, Michigan, that's expected to be operational by 2027. The batteries will also be validated at an unnamed LG Energy Solution facility before series production begins. 'We're excited to introduce the first-ever LMR prismatic cells for EVs, the culmination of our decades-long research and investment in the technology,' said Wonjoon Suh, executive VP and head of the Advanced Automotive Battery division at LG Energy Solution, in the release. 'GM's future trucks powered by this new chemistry are a strong example of our shared commitment to offering diverse EV options to consumers.' Recommended Reading LG Energy Solution picks up Michigan's subsidies for Ultium plant 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
Korea Herald
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- Korea Herald
Posco Future M advances LMR cathodes to rival China's LFP dominance
Posco Future M announced Tuesday that it has completed the development of lithium manganese-rich (LMR) cathode materials for electric vehicle batteries, which it hopes will be a competitive alternative to Chinese products. The company recently received approval from its primary clients — mainly battery manufacturers — to prepare for mass production, following inspections of equipment operation, safety, and environmental standards in the LMR manufacturing process. It aims to secure mass production capabilities within this year. While the exact production location remains undisclosed, Posco Future M emphasized that it will utilize its existing nickel, cobalt and manganese (NCM) cathode production lines to ensure a timely supply for clients. The company currently operates three manufacturing bases in Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province, Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, and Sejong. In collaboration with the research institute of its parent company, Posco Holdings, Posco Future M has steadily improved the energy density, charge-discharge performance, and stability of LMR cathodes, achieving successful pilot production last year. LMR cathodes are considered a potential game-changer for batteries used in entry-level and standard EVs. They are attracting attention from global automakers seeking alternatives to China's lithium iron phosphate batteries as carmakers face growing pressure to decouple their supply chains from China in order to meet US regulatory requirements. Posco Future M highlighted that LMR batteries offer competitive pricing compared to LFP batteries, while delivering 33 percent higher energy density. This cost efficiency is made possible by significantly reducing the use of expensive materials like cobalt and nickel, and instead increasing the proportion of more affordable manganese. The company also plans to expand its LMR product portfolio by developing next-generation cathode materials with even higher energy capacity, with the goal of serving not only entry-level EVs but also premium and large-size EV markets. 'Although LMR cathode materials have long been recognized for their potential, commercialization was hindered by challenges related to lifespan,' said Hong Hyung-jun, director of the Posco Future M Technology Research Center. 'However, significant R&D progress has been made. We are now ready to launch products that combine affordability with high energy density, working closely with our trusted partners.' Meanwhile, General Motors has announced plans to launch EVs equipped with LMR batteries by 2028. Ford Motor Company is also targeting LMR battery commercialization before 2030 and is currently conducting pilot production of advanced LMR cells.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
GM's New LMR Battery Could Change the Game: Is it Ready to Lead?
General Motors GM is setting the stage for a big leap in EV battery innovation. The company just revealed plans for a new lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery technology that could dramatically lower costs and boost the performance of its largest electric vehicles (EVs). If all goes according to plan, GM could become the first automaker to bring LMR prismatic battery cells to market — a move targeted for 2028. These new batteries are designed for GM's full-size electric trucks and SUVs like the Chevrolet Silverado EV and the Cadillac Escalade IQ. The LMR chemistry swaps out pricey materials like nickel and cobalt for more common and affordable manganese. This shift not only cuts raw material costs but could also help GM improve the range and weight efficiency of its EVs. GM claims that LMR batteries offer 33% higher energy density than today's top lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, all while maintaining comparable costs. This means more miles per charge without driving up sticker prices. Production is already on the horizon. Ultium Cells, GM's joint venture with LG Energy Solution, aims to begin preproduction in late 2027 and full commercial production in 2028. It's all part of GM's broader push to scale its Ultium platform and improve EV profitability. But GM isn't the only auto giant chasing this battery breakthrough. Ford F is also in the race, and it's moving fast. Last month, the company announced that it is developing its own LMR battery chemistry at its Ion Park R&D center in Michigan. Ford has already begun pilot production of second-generation cells and aims to roll out LMR-powered EVs before the decade ends. Ford sees LMR as the 'what's next' solution following its current use of nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and LFP batteries. The company believes the chemistry could unlock longer-range, lower-cost EVs, especially crucial for scaling up mass-market adoption. Tesla TSLA, meanwhile, planted early seeds in this space. CEO Elon Musk floated the idea of high-manganese batteries as far back as 2020 during Tesla's 'Battery Day.' At the time, he said Tesla aimed to create cathodes with one-third manganese content to stretch its nickel supply further. Tesla holds patents related to LMR chemistry, but it is yet to share firm production plans. GM looks set to be the first to market with LMR batteries, Ford is close behind, while Tesla's earlier concepts still await a clear update. Shares of General Motors have lost around 6% year to date compared with the industry's decline of 13%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research From a valuation standpoint, GM trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of just 5.28, significantly below the industry. It carries a Value Score of A. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for GM's 2025 sales and EPS implies a 6% and 12% decline, respectively, year on year. Estimates have been southbound over the past 30 days for the current and next quarter, as well as for 2025 and 2026. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research GM stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Ford Motor Company (F) : Free Stock Analysis Report General Motors Company (GM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research 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
Auto Blog
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
This Groundbreaking Battery Tech Is Coming In 2026, But What Is It?
GM plans to provide premium range EVs at much reduced prices by 2028 thanks to its newly-developed LMR batteries. A new way to power EVs If you think Detroit automakers are laggards in offering electric vehicles (EVs), guess again. General Motors is currently leading the pack, offering the Cadillac Celestiq, Cadillac Escalade IQ, Cadillac Lyriq, Cadillac Lyriq-V, Cadillac Optiq, Cadillac Vistiq, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Hummer EV Pickup, GMC Hummer EV SUV, and GMC Sierra EV, all of which are fueled by electrons, not petroleum. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:09 / 0:09 Nissan's revolutionary self-driving tech hits Japan's streets Watch More Cadillac Celestiq — Source: GM General Motors and LG Energy Solution are developing lithium manganese-rich prismatic battery cells, or LMRs, for use in future GM vehicles. GM plans to be the first automaker to use LMR batteries in its EVs beginning in 2028. The breakthrough battery chemistry will allow for electric vehicle (EV) batteries that are 30% more energy dense than current ones, yet cost the same as the lithium iron phosphate batteries, or LFPs, currently in use. 'We're excited to introduce the first-ever LMR prismatic cells for EVs, the culmination of our decades-long research and investment in the technology,' said Wonjoon Suh, executive vice-president and head of the Advanced Automotive Battery division at LG Energy Solution. 'GM's future trucks powered by this new chemistry are a strong example of our shared commitment.' The announcement follows a similar one made by Charles Poon, Director of Electrified Propulsion Engineering at Ford, on April 23rd. 'This isn't just a lab experiment. We're actively working to scale LMR cell chemistry and integrate them into our future vehicle lineup within this decade.' Poon cited the LMR batteries' lower production cost, higher energy density, enhanced stability and safety as key factors in their superiority. Ford started their EV offerings with nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries, later adding lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries in 2023. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. How LMR batteries differ To understand how these batteries differ from those currently in use, you must understand how a battery works. Simply put, electricity is produced in a battery from a reaction between the anode, which creates electrons, and a reaction in the cathode, which absorbs them. Electrolytes allow the electric charge to flow between the cathode and the anode. The net product is electricity. General Motors battery technician Steven Petty Jr. focuses on aligning electrodes on an anode sample for a prototype LMR battery cell in the making. GM's Ultium platform currently employs nickel manganese cobalt aluminum oxide batteries, also known as NCM, which uses 85% nickel, 5% cobalt, and 10% manganese for its cathode coating. However, cobalt and nickel are expensive, and cobalt is known to be mined with child labor, which is a human rights concern. Another widely used battery chemistry is lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, which costs about 20% less than an NCM battery, but China has a near monopoly in LFP cell manufacturing, according to S&P Global. A battery technician at the General Motors Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center takes a chemistry slurry sample — Source: GM In contrast, LMR batteries use roughly 35% nickel, 65% manganese, and virtually no cobalt. Given that it's the fifth most common element on Earth and widely available, manganese is far less expensive than nickel and cobalt. LMR batteries cost roughly the same to produce as LFP batteries, while being 33% more energy dense. GM plans to produce rectangular prismatic cells rather than the pouch cells currently being used, enhancing the packaging efficiency and reducing the number of components by as much as 75%. Additionally, LMR chemistry works well with bigger cell sizes, which lowers system costs even more. While the Chevrolet Silverado EV Work Truck with Max Range has an EPA-rated range of 492 miles, it uses an NCM battery. Using an LMR battery would allow GM to deliver similar range and lower the price, which now starts at $57,095 and tops out at $97,895. Final thoughts While GM began researching manganese-rich lithium-ion battery cells in 2015, performance and durability haven't been up to par. Historically, they've suffered from a short lifespan, losing voltage in a short period of time, but GM and LG Energy Solution state that they have overcome such obstacles by 'adding proprietary dopants and coatings, along with particle engineering, process innovations, to achieve the right energy density and arrangement of battery materials inside the cell to keep them stable,' according to a GM press release. The research and development at GM's Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, Michigan, has led to the corporate partners holding more than 200 patents around the world on LMR-related technology. General Motors Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, Michigan — Source: GM Ultimately, GM sees the technology providing more range at a lower cost, which should help bring down the cost of EVs, a sticking point in their journey towards being more widely accepted. According to Cox Automotive, the average price paid for a new car in March 2025 was $47,462. By comparison, the average price paid for an electric car was $59,205 – a 22% price premium and the highest in a couple of years. Such price realities are driving the research to reduce battery costs, while tariffs are pushing automakers to rely less on China for their minerals and components.
