General Motors (GM) will install next-generation batteries produced by Ultium Cells, its joint venture with LG Energy Solution(373220) LG Energy Solution(373220), in its fourth-generation electric-vehicle platform. The plan is to boost efficiency and cut costs in next-generation EVs by leading with lithium manganese rich (LMR) prismatic batteries, which promise longer range while improving price competitiveness.
According to the industry on the 11th, GM laid out the development direction for its fourth-generation EV platform—combining the battery, electric drive unit, and centralized computer—at the “GM Forward” event held in New York last month. GM plans to roll out the platform across major EV models.
Rendering image of GM’s fourth-generation EV platform structure. /Courtesy of GM Korea
The platform’s core is the LMR prismatic battery. Ultium Cells, the GM–LG Energy Solution(373220) joint venture, plans to produce the battery at its Spring Hill plant in Tennessee.
GM aims to manufacture LMR batteries at a cost comparable to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are mostly used in low-priced EVs, while raising energy density by 33%. That would cut battery size and weight yet still secure long driving range.
GM expects that applying LMR batteries, new drive units, and aerodynamics that reduce drag could increase mileage per 1 kWh of electricity by about 20% compared with current EVs.
The drive unit will be downsized for both the motor and power electronics, and the number of internal parts will be reduced by 40% from current levels. The plan is to cut vehicle weight and production costs while expanding passenger and cargo space.
Battery prototype production process at the GM Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, Michigan, United States. /Courtesy of GM Korea
The vehicle electronics will also shift to a centralized architecture. Dispersed controllers and wiring will be reduced, and a single central computer will integrate and manage vehicle functions.
GM says this will improve screen and voice-control responsiveness, and features such as the Super Cruise driver-assistance system and the OnStar connected-car service will be continuously enhanced through software updates.
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