GM, LG Reportedly Develop Advanced Lithium Manganese EV Batteries by 2028

The electric vehicle (EV) industry is rapidly advancing battery technologies to improve performance, safety, and adoption rates. Solid-state lithium-ion batteries are emerging as a breakthrough in addressing range anxiety, charging times, and safety concerns such as fire risks, which remain a significant issue with conventional lithium-ion batteries, as seen in recent fire incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters in the UK. General Motors, in partnership with LG, is developing lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries promising a 33% increase in energy density and reduced reliance on volatile metals like nickel and cobalt, aiming for over 400-mile ranges suitable for trucks and SUVs by 2028. Additionally, lithium-ion battery chemistries such as NMC, NCA, and LFP offer varying trade-offs between energy density, cost, and thermal safety, with LFP gaining popularity for its safety and longevity despite lower energy density. Beyond personal vehicles, advancements in energy consumption prediction models for electric buses in cold climates highlight efforts to optimize battery use and operational efficiency, crucial for broader sustainable transportation adoption. These developments collectively signal an industry-wide push towards safer, more efficient, and cost-effective battery solutions critical to accelerating the global transition to electric mobility.