Catalyst with Shayle Kann

GM's big new battery tech push

7 snips
Jun 26, 2025
Kurt Kelty, VP of Battery, Propulsion, and Sustainability at GM, previously led Tesla’s battery development. In their discussion, Kurt unveils GM's plans to mass produce lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries by 2028, highlighting their advantages over nickel and lower costs. The pair dive into the vital supply chain shifts required for this innovation, comparing LMR's potential against LFP and high-nickel options. Kurt also shares insights on the future competitive landscape of EV batteries and why LFP might still dominate stationary applications.
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ANECDOTE

GM’s Growing North American Battery Production

  • GM currently operates two 40 GWh battery factories in North America, becoming the largest OEM cell producer here.
  • A third factory joint venture with Samsung will expand capacity by 2027.
ADVICE

Onshore Critical Battery Supply Chain Steps

  • Manufacture battery packs and modules locally to avoid prohibitive shipping costs.
  • Localize cathode material production to optimize supply chain economics despite environmental or cost challenges.
INSIGHT

Supply Chain Economics are Complex

  • Optimal battery supply chain location balances raw material source, processing costs, tariffs, and incentives.
  • Over-incentivizing domestic production can raise costs and hinder EV demand.
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