GM to Abandon LFP Batteries, Prioritize LMR Chemistry for EVs by 2028
GM•General Motors plans to scrap lithium-iron phosphate battery use in future EVs despite a Tennessee plant slated to begin LFP cell production this month for energy storage. GM’s battery chief confirmed a shift to lithium manganese-rich chemistry—cost-matched to LFP but offering higher energy density—as the primary EV battery by 2028.
1. Battery Strategy Shift
GM battery chief Kurt Kelty confirmed the automaker may drop LFP cells for future EVs and focus on lithium manganese-rich chemistry as its primary battery, citing equivalent manufacturing costs to LFP and superior energy density.
2. Tennessee Plant Plans
The jointly owned Tennessee facility will begin LFP cell production this month exclusively for energy storage systems, but GM has indicated these cells may not be integrated into its electric vehicle portfolio as previously planned for late 2027.
3. LMR vs LFP Advantages
LMR chemistry offers higher energy storage per weight and reduces reliance on critical minerals compared with LFP, positioning it as GM’s workhorse for high-volume EV production once technical development completes around 2028.
4. Competitive Landscape
While many automakers have adopted lower-cost LFP batteries to offer affordable EVs, GM’s long-term investment in LMR aims to differentiate its vehicles through improved range and performance, contrasting with competitors scaling LFP-based models.
