General Motors Plans to Phase Out Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries

[Technology Roadmap] General Motors may abandon lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries and fully pivot to lithium-rich manganese-based (LMR) batteries.

Core Development: Lithium-Rich Manganese-Based Batteries Become GM's Primary Solution

On June 10, Kurt Kelty, GM’s head of batteries, stated that lithium iron phosphate batteries might not be integrated into its electric vehicle lineup. Although the Tennessee plant will begin producing LFP cells this month, they will be used exclusively for energy storage systems.

Key Metrics: LMR Battery Mass Production Possibly by 2028

GM has been developing lithium-rich manganese-based batteries for over a decade, claiming their U.S. manufacturing cost is on par with LFP but offers higher energy density. The company had previously planned to start mass-producing automotive LFP batteries by late 2027, but has now shifted its strategy. Rival Ford is also advancing toward LMR battery mass production.

Strategic Rationale: Reducing Resource Dependence and Securing Technological Leadership

LMR batteries combine the low cost of LFP with the high energy density of NMC chemistries, while significantly reducing reliance on scarce metals like nickel and cobalt, aligning with U.S. domestic supply chain security priorities.