GM to Invest $1B in Mass Production of Manganese-Rich Cells
GM and LG Energy Solution will spend $1 billion transforming their Spring Hill plant in Tennessee into the first facility to mass-produce prismatic lithium manganese-rich cells (LMR) by 2028.
This announcement follows significant previous investments: $2.3 billion in 2021, $275 million in 2022, and a $900 million commitment for pilot production in Warren, Michigan.
GM claims LMR cells offer 33% higher energy density than lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells at the same cost. They aim to implement this technology in full-size pickups and SUVs with over 400 miles of range starting in 2028.
However, question marks remain about the long-term viability of LFP, as Volkswagen and Stellantis are prioritizing investment in this chemistry for smaller European vehicles.
The Spring Hill plant already produces LFP cells but for energy storage rather than vehicle batteries.
Manganese availability is a key consideration, especially considering the EU's 96% dependency on imported battery-grade manganese.
While LG Energy Solution's research demonstrates acceptable cycle life for LMR cells, the source of manganese remains a challenge. No European plant producing LMR cells has been announced yet.