#South Korea #Seoul #LG Energy Solution #General Motors #prismatic batteries

LG Energy Solution and General Motors Enhance Partnership

In a significant move set to reshape the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, LG Energy Solution has announced a new partnership with General Motors (GM). This agreement builds on their long-standing relationship, which has spanned over 14 years, focusing on developing cutting-edge battery technology.

Advancing Prismatic Battery Technology

Under the terms of this latest agreement, LG and GM will collaboratively develop prismatic battery cells and their associated chemistries. This new technology is aimed at powering GM’s future electric vehicles, a crucial step forward in their ongoing efforts to enhance EV performance and efficiency.

A Milestone for LG Energy Solution

With this initiative, LG Energy Solution becomes the first global battery manufacturer to offer all three major battery form factors: pouch-type, cylindrical, and prismatic. This diversification is important as it allows LG to cater to different customer needs and effectively support the mass adoption of electric vehicles worldwide.

Prismatic battery cells are known for their space-efficient, flat rectangular shape and rigid enclosures, making them ideal for battery modules and packs in modern EV designs. LG Energy Solution has already shown its competitive edge in the prismatic cell market, leveraging its extensive experience in production and a robust patent portfolio encompassing innovative battery design and manufacturing technologies.

Innovative Manufacturing Processes

A notable change in manufacturing best practices is the shift from winding to stacking in prismatic cell structures. LG aims to harness its world-class stacking technology to deliver unique solutions tailored to the evolving demands of its customers. As a result, the company is set to reinforce its position as a market leader alongside its pouch-type and cylindrical cells.

Employment and Economic Impact

The collaboration emphasizes the successful Ultium Cells joint venture, which has contributed significantly to job creation in the United States, with manufacturing facilities located in Ohio and Tennessee. This partnership not only drives technological advancements but also supports local economies by generating thousands of advanced technology jobs.

Statements from Leadership

Both companies have expressed enthusiasm about the expanded relationship. Wonjoon Suh, Executive Vice President at LG, stated, "We are proud to be expanding our relationship with GM. Our collaboration has already yielded tremendous progress, and we look forward to deepening our partnership to further drive advancements in the EV space."

On the other hand, Kurt Kelty, GM Vice President, echoed this sentiment, saying, "By extending our partnership with LG Energy Solution, we are taking an important step towards optimizing our battery technology. Together, we have built Ultium Cells into one of the largest battery manufacturers in North America, which is vital for our diverse EV portfolio."

Commitment to Sustainability

LG Energy Solution's commitment to sustainability is notable as the company strives to achieve carbon neutrality across its value chain by 2050. This goal reflects a strong commitment to not just technological development but also environmental responsibility. As a leader in lithium-ion battery manufacturing, LG Energy Solution holds over 58,000 patents, showcasing its dedication to innovation and research in the battery industry.

This latest partnership between LG Energy Solution and General Motors illustrates a shared vision for a sustainable future in electric mobility. As both companies advance prismatic battery technology, the automotive landscape is bound to see an exciting evolution in how electric vehicles are powered and consumed around the globe.