GM switches to "Tesla" batteries too

So far, GM has used pouch cells from South Korean supplier LG Energy Solution. In these batteries, the stacked or folded active layers are enclosed by a flexible, usually aluminum-based outer foil. The rectangular layers of negative and positive electrodes and current collector foils with corresponding layers of separators are stacked like a sandwich. The packs can be well-cooled, stacked, and have a high volumetric energy density. The open sides of the outer pouches are usually thermally welded. Pouch cells can be manufactured with thin thicknesses, low weight, and application-specific sizes. Due to their flat outer shape, they have good opportunities for heat dissipation. Most manufacturers of electric cars have so far relied on pouch cells.

Joint Venture Ultium Cells

Together with LG Energy Solution, General Motors had established a joint venture for the production of pouch cells and is currently in discussions to build a fourth battery factory. According to TheElec, these discussions have stalled following GM's announcement. So far, Ultium Cells, supported by a $2.5 billion loan from the Department of Energy, has announced joint-venture battery plants in Ohio, Tennessee, and Michigan. Large-format pouch cells are to be produced there, which GM indicates will be used in vehicles such as the Equinox EV, the GMC Hummer EV, and the BrightDrop delivery vans.

In the Future "Tesla" Cells

The American automaker is now reconsidering its strategy and is considering switching to cylindrical cells in the 4680 format, which are used by Tesla, among others. It is still unclear whether GM plans to use cylindrical batteries for its upcoming platform, which is being developed in collaboration with Honda, or if the cylindrical cells are intended for GM's main Ultium platform.

In cylindrical cells, long strips of the individual materials are rolled up inside a metal housing. The advantage of round cells is the automated production, which builds on extensive production experience with batteries for consumer electronics, as well as high life expectancy. Cooling the cells is more challenging, and due to the design, the space utilization is poorer compared to pouch cells. Currently, Tesla's battery packs achieve the highest energy density and also exhibit very good fast-charging capability.

More and more e-car manufacturers are switching to cylindrical cells

GM stated that in the future it will focus entirely on electric vehicles and that it would be an advantage to use the same battery format in practically all electric vehicle products, with the exception of small cars. Other car manufacturers, such as Stellantis and Volvo, had also hinted at plans to use cylindrical cells. In August, after months of reports and rumors from the industry, BMW confirmed the switch to cylindrical batteries in the upcoming "new class".