The automaker's lithium manganese-rich prismatic battery cells reportedly offer a longer lifespan and higher energy density than previous attempts.

GM plans to provide premium range EVs at much reduced prices by 2028 thanks to its newly-developed LMR batteries.

GM says the new cells will be cheaper for a few reasons. For one, manganese is cheaper than cobalt or nickel. The LMR chemistry will have 0-2% cobalt, 30-40% nickel, and 60-70% manganese. That’s significantly less than today’s leading NMC cells, which are up to 10% cobalt and 80% nickel.

In a surprising dual strike at China’s grip on the global electric vehicle battery industry, General Motors and Ford have both unveiled manganese-led batteries that could shoulder aside incumbent chemistries dominated by China’s behemoths.

GM will use the new battery cells in future electric trucks and full-size SUVs. By integrating the new battery cells, the company aims to offer over 400 miles of range, but with “significant battery cost savings” compared to its current high-nickel pack.

Volkswagen has enhanced its mass-market EV prospects with plans to refresh its lineup using new battery tech.

General Motors aims to deploy the industry's first lithium manganese-rich (LMR) batteries on its next-generation electric trucks and SUVs, tapping an alternative chemistry that it claims will provide more energy at a lower cost.