Core Viewpoint - General Motors (GM) is upgrading its Ultium Cells battery manufacturing facility in Tennessee to produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, with production expected to start in 2027 [1][3]. Group 1: Battery Production Changes - The Ultium Cells facility was originally designed for producing ternary lithium batteries, but the upgrade will reduce its ternary lithium battery capacity [3]. - The transition to LFP batteries is seen as a significant breakthrough for GM in the U.S. market, emphasizing cost advantages and job creation [3]. Group 2: Development of Lithium Manganese Rich Batteries - GM is continuing the development of lithium manganese rich (LMR) square batteries, aiming to be the first company to achieve mass production by 2028 [5]. - The energy density of the LMR batteries is projected to be 33% higher than the best LFP batteries available on the market, while maintaining similar cost levels [5]. Group 3: Challenges and Investments - There are technical challenges associated with LMR batteries, including capacity and voltage degradation during charge-discharge cycles, low charge-discharge rates, and thermal stability issues affecting safety [5]. - GM has invested $900 million in the construction of the Ankr-Johnson battery cell development center, which is expected to accelerate the development of LMR batteries and potentially shorten the R&D cycle by up to one year [5][7]. Group 4: Electric Vehicle Strategy - GM's CEO announced a comprehensive transition to electric vehicles by 2035, with plans to cease production of all gasoline vehicles [7]. - The company has committed to investing $35 billion in electric vehicle and autonomous driving research from 2020 to 2025, although total investment figures in electric vehicles have not been disclosed [7].