Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Ultium Cells Enhances Tennessee Plant For Affordable EV Battery Cell Production By Late 2027
Ultium Cells LLC, a collaboration between General Motors and LG Energy Solution, plans to enhance its battery cell plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee. This upgrade aims to boost the production of cost-effective lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells. The initiative builds on a $2.3 billion investment announced in 2021. Conversion of the facility's production lines is set to start later this year, with commercial output expected by late 2027.
"At GM, we’re innovating battery technology to deliver the best mix of range, performance, and affordability to our EV customers," said Kurt Kelty, VP of batteries, propulsion, and sustainability at GM. "This upgrade at Spring Hill will enable us to scale production of lower-cost LFP cell technologies in the U.S., complementing our high-nickel and future lithium manganese rich solutions and further diversifying our growing EV portfolio."
The Spring Hill facility currently employs around 1,300 people. It will play a crucial role in advancing U.S. battery innovation by manufacturing cells with various chemistries. This flexibility is expected to drive consumer choice in the electric vehicle (EV) market. The Ultium Cells plant in Warren, Ohio will continue producing nickel cobalt manganese aluminum cells, which are essential for GM's crossovers that offer over 300 miles per charge.
GM's flexible EV platform is designed for quick integration of different cell chemistries and forms. With LFP technology, GM aims for substantial savings on battery pack costs compared to current high-nickel packs while expanding consumer options for EVs.
"The upgrade reflects the continued strength of our partnership with General Motors and our shared commitment to advancing EV battery innovation," said Wonjoon Suh, executive VP at LG Energy Solution. "We will bring our extensive experience and expertise in U.S. manufacturing to the joint venture facility, further accelerating our efforts to deliver new chemistries and form factors that effectively capture the unmet needs in the EV market."
Stuart C. McWhorter from Tennessee's Department of Economic and Community Development praised Ultium Cells' investment as a testament to strong partnerships with General Motors and LG Energy Solution since 2021. He emphasized ongoing support for these companies' joint ventures.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth
Kee Eun, President and CEO of Ultium Cells, expressed gratitude for Tennessee's support as they advance their lead in EV battery manufacturing. "This investment expands our capabilities beyond a single battery cell chemistry," Eun stated. "Expanding our product portfolio ensures Ultium Cells will remain at the forefront of battery cell innovation and sustain our commitment to be a stable, long-term employer for the communities we serve."
Ultium Cells focuses on mass-producing battery cells to promote a zero-emissions future. It supports GM's North American electric vehicle assembly capacity while planning to supply other industries like rail, aerospace, heavy trucking, and marine sectors.
General Motors is committed to shaping transportation's future by using advanced technology for safer vehicles with lower emissions. Its brands—Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC—offer innovative gasoline-powered vehicles alongside an extensive range of electric vehicles as part of its all-electric vision.
Continue with Google