General Motors and LG Energy Solution are extending their 14-year battery technology partnership to include prismatic cell development. GM said it expects the prismatic cell technology developed under the agreement to power future GM electric vehicles, as part of the company’s strategy to diversify its supply chain, leveraging multiple chemistries and form factors. GM will continue to leverage the Ultium Cells plants in Warren, Ohio and Spring Hill, Tennessee, which produce pouch battery cells, to meet growing demand for its electric vehicles, it said. 

Prismatic cells feature a flat, rectangular shape with a rigid enclosure, which allows for space-efficient packaging within battery modules and packs, according to GM. LG Energy Solution has both experience with prismatic cell production and an extensive patent portfolio on battery design and manufacturing technologies, including packaging.  

“Together with LG Energy Solution, we’ve built Ultium Cells into one of the largest battery cell manufacturers in North America,” 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.” 

The battery cells produced at these plants power GM’s latest EVs including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV and Chevrolet Equinox EV, as well as the GMC Hummer EV Pickup and SUV, the company said.