Summary
- GM is retiring its Ultium EV battery branding
- GM is focusing on electric vehicles and forming a partnership with Forge Nano
- Kurt Kelty, a former Tesla executive, is leading GM’s battery strategy
- GM plans to use different types of chemistry and shapes of cells for its EVs
- GM is investing in lower-cost, higher-performing batteries using atomic layer deposition technology
Article
GM recently announced its decision to retire the Ultium EV battery branding, signaling a strategic shift towards lower-cost, higher-performing batteries. The move comes as GM expands its focus on electric vehicles and forms a new partnership with California startup Forge Nano. Kurt Kelty, a former Tesla executive with expertise in lithium-ion batteries, has been appointed as GM’s Vice President of Batteries to lead the company’s battery cell strategy and cost-cutting efforts. GM plans to explore different types of chemistry, cell shapes, and packaging methods for its EVs, with a focus on driving down battery costs while enhancing performance.
Kelty’s background in nano-tailored EV battery materials aligns with GM’s partnership with Forge Nano, which includes a $10 million investment and collaboration to apply atomic layer deposition technology to EV batteries. This technology allows for precise thin-film coatings on battery materials at an atomic scale, potentially improving cathode capabilities and reducing costs. Forge Nano’s Atomic Armor technology could unlock benefits for both customers and the business, paving the way for the development of more efficient and cost-effective EV batteries for GM’s future electric vehicle lineup.
GM’s pursuit of better EV batteries also involves securing a stable lithium supply chain, with the company making significant investments in projects like the Thacker Pass lithium mine in Nevada. By partnering with Lithium Americas Corp., GM aims to create a domestic supply chain for critical minerals needed for EV batteries. While the Thacker Pass project has faced opposition from environmental activists and Native leaders concerned about its impact on pristine wilderness, GM remains committed to ensuring a reliable source of lithium for its electric vehicles.
In addition to its focus on battery materials and supply chain, GM is exploring innovative approaches to battery production, such as geothermal brine lithium extraction systems. By supporting projects like the Hell’s Kitchen geothermal lithium extraction project developed by Controlled Thermal Resources, GM is investing in environmentally-friendly extraction methods that minimize surface disruption. These initiatives align with GM’s efforts to enhance the sustainability of its EV battery supply chain and reduce its environmental impact.
The GM-Forge Nano partnership represents a significant step towards developing advanced EV batteries with improved performance and cost efficiency. By incorporating atomic layer deposition technology and innovative battery materials, GM aims to position itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market. With Kelty’s expertise and strategic vision, GM is poised to introduce a new generation of electric vehicles powered by cutting-edge battery technology. As the company continues to drive innovation and sustainability in its EV battery strategy, consumers can expect to see more efficient, affordable, and environmentally-friendly electric vehicles from GM in the future.
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