LG Energy, GM To Develop Prismatic Battery Cell Technology For EVs

LG Energy, GM To Develop Prismatic Battery Cell Technology For EVs

LG Energy Solution has announced a new partnership agreement with General Motors (GM) for prismatic battery cell technology. The firms partnered for the initiative to deploy these batteries for use in electric vehicles (EVs). Prismatic battery cell technology refers to the alternate design form of Lithium-ion batteries which are flat and rectangular in shape. This is contrary to the conventional Lithium-ion cells which are cylindrical.

Under this new agreement, the companies will jointly develop prismatic battery cell technology and affiliated chemistries. Once the partnership comes to fruition, the prismatic cell technology developed under the agreement will power future GM electric vehicles (EVs).

The achievement will be significant for LG Energy Solution, as it becomes the first global battery manufacturer to offer all three form factors (pouch-type, cylindrical, prismatic). It also highlights the companies’ partnership and the success of their Ultium Cells joint venture.

What Are Prismatic Battery Cells

Prismatic battery cells feature a flat, rectangular shape with a rigid enclosure, which allows for space-efficient packaging within battery modules and packs. LG Energy Solution has already secured competitiveness in prismatic cells, with the experience of actual prismatic cell production and an extensive patent portfolio on battery design and manufacturing technologies, including packaging.

The company also aims to leverage its stacking technology, as manufacturing best practices are shifting from winding to stacking in prismatic cell structures. As such, capitalizing on its proven capabilities in materials and manufacturing technologies, LG Energy Solution will deliver differentiated prismatic solutions to address the diversifying needs of its customers.

Diversified portfolio of LG Energy 

Once the prismatic cell comes on board, the company will further see a boost in its portfolio, along with its pouch-type cells and cylindrical cells. With its expanded product portfolio, LG Energy Solution aims to offer power solutions that address different needs in each EV segment.

“LG Energy Solution is proud to be expanding its relationship with one of its strongest partners, GM. Together with GM, we’ve made tremendous progress already and look forward to deepening our collaboration to drive the right chemistry and battery combinations for continued growth in the EV market,” said Wonjoon Suh, Executive Vice President and head of the company’s Advanced Automotive Battery division.

“Together with LG Energy Solution, we’ve built Ultium Cells into one of the largest battery cell manufacturers in North America, creating thousands of advanced technology jobs in the U.S. and powering our diverse EV portfolio,” said Kurt Kelty, GM vice president of battery cell and pack. “We’re focused on optimizing our battery technology by developing the right battery chemistries and form factors to improve EV performance, enhance safety, and reduce costs. By extending our partnership with LG Energy Solution, we’re taking an important step towards these goals,” said Kurt Kelty, GM vice president of battery cell and pack.

About LG Energy Solution

LG Energy Solution, a split-off from LG Chem, is a global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems. With 30 years of experience in battery technology and research and development (R&D), the company is the top battery-related patent holder in the world with over 58,000 patents.