LG Energy Solution and GM Collaborate on Prismatic Battery Cells.

Seoul: South Korean battery maker LG Energy Solution Ltd. (LGES) announced that it has entered into an agreement with General Motors Co. to jointly develop prismatic battery cells. Under this new partnership, the two companies aim to advance prismatic battery cell technology and its associated materials, which will be instrumental in powering GM's upcoming electric vehicles (EVs).According to Yonhap News Agency, the prismatic battery cells, characterized by their flat and rectangular design, are enclosed in a rigid casing, which facilitates efficient space utilization within battery modules and packs. This design innovation is expected to lead to reductions in the cost and weight of EVs. The development of prismatic battery cells will represent a groundbreaking achievement for LGES, as it will be the first battery manufacturer globally to provide all three form factors: pouch-type, cylindrical, and prismatic cells.Suh Won-joon, the executive vice president and head of LGES' advanced automotive battery di vision, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, "Together with GM, we look forward to deepening our collaboration to drive the right chemistry and battery combinations for continued growth in the EV market." The two companies have maintained a robust 14-year partnership in battery technology, which underlines their ongoing commitment to innovation in the EV sector.Currently, LGES, through its joint venture with GM, operates battery cell plants in Ohio and Tennessee, with a third facility set to begin operations in Michigan next year. Kurt Kelty, GM's vice president of battery cell and pack, emphasized the strategic importance of this extended partnership with LGES, saying, "We are focused on optimizing our battery technology by developing the right battery chemistries and form factors to improve EV performance, enhance safety and reduce costs."LGES aims to provide "efficient and safe power solutions" through its expanded product portfolio, addressing diverse needs across different EV segments . This initiative is part of their broader strategy to support the global mass adoption of electric vehicles.