GM's Electric Kung Fu: New Batteries Kick Cost and Range Anxiety!

Holy Manganese Batman! GM's New Trick

Hello everyone! Jackie Chan here and let me tell you I've seen some crazy stunts in my time but this news from General Motors? It's like something out of a 'Police Story' movie! They're talking about a "groundbreaking" new EV battery the lithium manganese rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells ready to roll out in their big electric trucks and SUVs by 2028. It's like they're saying 'No problem!' to those expensive cobalt and nickel minerals.

Ford vs. GM: The Electric Face Off!

Now what's this? Ford also wants to launch what they are calling a 'game changing' LMR battery before 2030? Sounds like a friendly competition to me. But like in all my movies I believe competition pushes us to do better. GM is teaming up with LG Energy Solution because who doesn't love a good team up? It's like me and Chris Tucker in 'Rush Hour' – a perfect combination!

Prismatic Power: Not Just a Fancy Shape!

These LMR batteries aren't just some newfangled gadget; they're prismatic which means they're square! Like a perfectly stacked pile of bricks! And GM says these batteries will be lighter like me doing a flying kick. Less weight means more range like running away from the bad guys for even longer! Remember 'Don't think about the pain think about the reward!'

From Hybrids to High Voltage: The Evolution of the Battery

So these prismatic cells have been around for a while used in hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius. But now GM is taking them to the next level for EVs. They've been researching this manganese rich technology since 2015 because innovation like a good action sequence takes time and dedication. Patience young grasshoppers!

More Range Less Parts: The Jackie Chan Formula

GM claims these new batteries will have fewer parts like me needing less equipment to do a killer stunt! Less weight fewer components and higher energy density. They are also suggesting it will give you more miles! And get this they are aiming for 400 miles of range in an electric truck! I could practically drive from Hong Kong to... well not quite but still a long way!

The Road Ahead: Cost Savings and Electric Dreams

The big question is will these batteries be profitable? GM is hopeful. They're sinking a lot of money into electrification even if their plans have been a bit scaled back. It's like when I plan a big stunt I have to adjust if things don't go exactly as planned. But hey as I always say 'Sometimes it takes a good fall to know where you stand!' GM is betting big on these LMR batteries to make EVs more affordable and appealing. Like me they're always looking for a way to bring a smile to people's faces!