Core Insights - General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution (LGES) are upgrading the Spring Hill, TN plant to produce more affordable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) electric vehicle (EV) battery cells, which are less expensive than traditional lithium-ion batteries due to the absence of costly materials like cobalt and nickel [1][9] - The upgrade will enable U.S.-based production of LFP batteries, complementing GM's existing high-nickel battery offerings and future lithium-manganese-based batteries, thereby expanding GM's EV lineup [2] Company Developments - GM currently offers 12 EV models with prices ranging from approximately $35,000 to over $300,000, with the upcoming Chevy Silverado EV and next-generation Chevy Bolt EV expected to feature LFP batteries [3] - The new Bolt is anticipated to start production later this year and reach consumers by early 2026, while local LFP production is targeted for late 2027 [3] - The LFP version of the Silverado EV is projected to provide around 350 miles of range and reduce vehicle costs by $6,000 [3] Investment and Technology - The Spring Hill plant upgrade builds on a previous $2.3 billion investment announced in 2021, although no additional investment figures were disclosed for the current upgrade [4] - GM is also developing advanced battery technologies, including lithium-manganese-rich chemistries for large EVs, expected to launch around early 2028, and is exploring silicon anodes and solid-state batteries in its Michigan R&D labs [4] Industry Context - LFP batteries, initially developed in the U.S., have seen mass adoption and advancements led by Chinese manufacturers like BYD and CATL, while Korean companies like LG are now accelerating their efforts in this space [5] - LFP technology is gaining traction in the U.S., with Ford and Tesla also investing in LFP battery production [5] - The GM-LGES joint venture is currently the largest battery cell manufacturer in North America [5]