By Steven Symes 
GM has announced it has new EV battery tech that’s less costly and lighter than what’s currently in use. These new “groundbreaking” batteries are called LMR or lithium manganese-rich prismatic battery cells.
Tesla plans to idle one of its factories this month.
We often hear rumblings of some new revolutionary new EV battery tech, but it’s always from some fringe source, so we don’t pay those claims much attention. But when GM itself says it has a new design that could revolutionize the industry and it’s coming to market at the beginning of 2028, that’s worth looking at.
Instead of some outlandish claims, this technology sounds more realistic. LMR batteries aren’t anything new but have been around for a long time. What’s different with GM’s is the design and chemical composition.
Because they’re made of manganese and other more common materials instead of cobalt and nickel like current lithium-ion batteries, production costs are lower. LG Energy Solution has been working with GM on developing these new EV batteries.
Apparently, the design also boosts driving range and cuts down charging times. That’s why GM is looking to use the new battery tech in large all-electric trucks and SUVs first. Plus, those are the automaker’s cash cows, so putting new tech in them is a solid move.
This development is coming at a time when attitudes towards EVs have cooled. Many people who wanted to buy an electric car now have one as the romantic vision of not using gasoline has now become a mixed bag of reality.
But GM seems to think its LMR batteries will really change the game.
It’s worth noting Ford says it’s coming to market with its own LMR batteries by 2030. That means the race is on to get revolutionary designs into the hands of consumers.
Source: CNBC
Image via Chevrolet