10天损失半年销售额！这家韩国动力电池巨头急了？

Core Viewpoint - LG Energy Solution is facing significant challenges in the U.S. market due to the cancellation of supply agreements and strategic shifts by major automakers like Ford and General Motors, which could severely impact its sales and operations in the near future [1][2][3][25]. Group 1: Impact of U.S. Market Changes - LG Energy Solution lost a supply agreement worth approximately 3.9 trillion KRW (about 18.9 billion RMB) with FBPS after the latter exited the battery business [1]. - Ford canceled a major battery order valued at 9.6 trillion KRW (about 45.9 billion RMB) as part of its strategic shift [2]. - The combined loss from these two projects amounts to 13.5 trillion KRW, representing over half of LG Energy Solution's projected sales for 2024 [3]. Group 2: U.S. Automotive Industry Trends - The U.S. electric vehicle market is experiencing a downturn, with traditional automakers like Ford and GM adjusting their strategies to focus more on hybrid and fuel vehicles rather than fully electric models [9][25]. - GM has reported a one-time loss of 1.6 billion USD and anticipates a significant decline in electric vehicle demand, leading to layoffs and production cuts [15][17]. - Ford's strategic pivot includes a loss provision of 19.5 billion USD, with plans to shift focus from pure electric vehicles to hybrid and extended-range models [19][22]. Group 3: Challenges for Korean Battery Manufacturers - Korean battery manufacturers, including LG Energy Solution, are under pressure due to changing U.S. policies and market dynamics, which have led to a reevaluation of their investments in the U.S. [29][30]. - The Inflation Reduction Act initially provided incentives for U.S. production, but subsequent policy changes under the Trump administration have created uncertainty for these companies [34][41]. - Despite these challenges, LG Energy Solution continues to invest in U.S. projects, including plans to produce lithium iron phosphate batteries to reduce costs and attract customers [49]. Group 4: Financial and Operational Adjustments - LG Energy Solution is reportedly preparing to sell a battery factory in Ohio, a move seen as a strategy to alleviate financial pressure despite being close to completion [62]. - The company has faced significant order losses, with over half of its expected sales for 2024 already impacted, raising concerns about its future financial stability [63].