General Motors is reportedly set to announce a new partnership with Samsung SDI this week, which could involve the development of a joint venture battery plant in Michigan. According to reports, the two companies may sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Wednesday, March 8. This news follows the recent news that talks between GM and LG Energy Solution (LGES) about the fourth battery plant in the United States have stalled.
GM and LGES have already launched three Ultium Cells battery projects, with the first plant already producing battery cells since 2022. The plants with LGES were focused on a pouch battery form factor, while rumors suggest that GM is considering using cylindrical battery cells for the first time. This could be why GM is looking to add an additional EV battery partner, as the existing partner may not be able to supply the cylindrical batteries to the required specs, time and cost.
Samsung SDI is known for supplying prismatic battery cells and smaller capacity cylindrical cells (1865- or 2170-type). However, they are also pursuing the higher-capacity 46xx-type cylindrical battery cells (a standard diameter of 46 millimeters). If the GM-Samsung SDI deal goes ahead, it could result in a joint venture factory located in Michigan, with an annual manufacturing capacity of 30-50 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery cells. This would be enough for 300,000-500,000 BEVs, assuming 100 kWh/car.
GM CEO Mary Barra has said that “One of the strengths of the GM platform is the ability to use pouch, prismatic and cylindrical battery cells”, which suggests that cylindrical battery cell rumors might be true. Tesla also uses various battery form factors and chemistries, including 1865-, 2170-, 4680- and prismatic (LFP).
A joint venture with GM would be a big boost for Samsung SDI, who are also building a battery factory in Indiana with Stellantis, as well as expanding their battery pack facility in Michigan. It will be interesting to see what this new partnership brings and how it will affect the EV industry.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
