General Motors (GM) has announced a major breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology with the development of new lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells. Expected to debut in full-size electric trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado and Cadillac Escalade IQ by 2028, these batteries promise to cut costs, reduce weight, and increase driving range, potentially reshaping the EV landscape.
A Leap in Battery Chemistry
The LMR prismatic cells mark a significant evolution from GM’s current Ultium pouch cells. Unlike today’s batteries that rely heavily on costly minerals like cobalt and nickel, the new LMR chemistry substitutes these with more abundant and affordable manganese. This shift, GM says, is key to driving down battery production costs and making EVs more accessible to consumers.
“LMR unlocks premium range and performance at an affordable cost,” said Kurt Kelty, GM’s Vice President of Battery, Propulsion and Sustainability, at a media event. “It’s a game-changing battery for electric trucks.”
From Prototype to Production
GM, in partnership with LG Energy Solution through their Ultium Cells joint venture, plans to begin commercial production of the new LMR prismatic batteries in the U.S. by 2028. Preproduction is scheduled to start in late 2027 at an LG facility.
To date, GM has built about 300 full-size LMR battery prototypes at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center, working closely with engineers to solve the historic shortcomings of LMR technology namely, its limited lifespan.
“Historically, LMR cells offered lower cycle life,” noted Sam Abuelsamid, VP at auto research firm Telemetry. “But GM believes they’ve overcome that hurdle.”
Lighter, Cheaper, and More Powerful
In addition to lower material costs, GM says the new battery packs will feature 50% fewer parts and significantly fewer modules. This reduction contributes to an overall weight savings of several hundred pounds per vehicle—a critical improvement for full-size EVs that often suffer from battery bulk.
Energy density is also getting a boost. LMR prismatic cells are expected to deliver 33% higher energy density compared to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, but at a similar cost. That could mean over 400 miles of range in GM’s upcoming electric trucks.
According to BloombergNEF, the average EV battery cost dropped 20% in 2024 to $115/kWh. Abuelsamid estimates GM’s new LMR packs could fall within the $80–$90/kWh range, down from $125/kWh with current battery technology.
Complementing, Not Replacing, Ultium
Kelty confirmed that LMR cells will supplement, not replace, GM’s current Ultium pouch cells and future LFP batteries, which are targeted at more budget-conscious, entry-level EVs.
“We’re going through a massive growth phase in our EV business,” Kelty said. “We’ve already surpassed Tesla as the leading EV battery manufacturer in North America.”
A Step Toward Mass Adoption
While GM has tempered its aggressive EV goals from earlier years, the company remains committed to electrification. With EV demand growing slower than expected, GM now emphasizes flexibility and consumer-driven rollout strategies. CEO Mary Barra’s 2021 promise of an all-EV lineup by 2035 still stands, though timelines may shift based on market response.
The new LMR batteries are a pivotal part of that strategy. “They will help remove two of the biggest consumer barriers cost and range,” Kelty added.
If successful, GM’s LMR battery breakthrough could accelerate widespread EV adoption and reestablish the automaker’s leadership in the next era of electric mobility.
