GM(US:GM)2021-12-09 17:17Summary of General Motors Company (NYSE: GM) at Deutsche Bank AutoTech Conference Industry and Company Overview - Company: General Motors Company (GM) - Industry: Automotive, specifically focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced driving technologies Key Points and Arguments Electrification Platform - GM is launching its first product from the Ultium platform, the HUMMER EV, followed by the Cadillac Lyriq and more models to come [4][5] - The Ultium platform is described as vertically integrated, with GM taking significant control over the supply chain [4] - GM aims to create a North America-based supply chain footprint to enhance control and efficiency [5] Software Platform - GM is introducing a new software platform called Ultifi, which separates customer functionality from the physical vehicle controls [6] - This platform allows for greater flexibility in adding and managing features, reducing the number of physical controllers needed [6][7] Assisted Driving Technology - GM is expanding its assisted driving technology, with Super Cruise already in the market and Ultra Cruise set to launch soon [8] - The company is also developing a fully autonomous platform referred to as San Francisco Cruise [8] Supply Chain Improvements - GM has seen an easing of semiconductor supply chain restrictions, improving its outlook for Q4 and beyond [10][11] - The company has strengthened relationships with suppliers, particularly Tier 3 and Tier 4 semiconductor producers [13] - GM is implementing a de-proliferation strategy to simplify its semiconductor supply chain, focusing on three primary MCU families [15] Electric Vehicle Strategy - GM plans to produce over 1 million EVs annually by 2025, with a focus on high-volume models [29][39] - The company emphasizes the importance of a range of at least 300 miles for mass EV adoption [31] - Upcoming models include the HUMMER SUV, Cadillac Lyriq, and a $30,000 Equinox-size EV with over 300 miles of range [32][35] Raw Material Sourcing - GM is securing a North American supply chain for raw materials needed for battery production, including lithium and nickel [37][39] - The company aims to reduce cobalt usage in its batteries by 70% compared to previous models [40] Battery Technology - The Ultium battery technology differs from the Bolt, featuring larger pouch cells and a better balance of chemistry [43] - GM is focusing on in-house battery design and manufacturing to avoid past issues with battery quality [44][46] Advanced Driving Technologies - GM plans to roll out Super Cruise on 22 new models by 2023, with high customer satisfaction reported [51] - Ultra Cruise will allow for more autonomous driving capabilities, with a focus on safety and driver oversight [53] Future Outlook - GM is targeting commercial deployment of its Cruise technology next year, with significant milestones expected [56] - The integration of Cruise with GM's overall strategy is seen as a way to create substantial value [57] Other Important Insights - GM is actively addressing the pressures faced by Tier 1 suppliers due to current market volatility [25][28] - The company is committed to maintaining strong relationships with its suppliers while adapting to new market conditions [26][27] - GM's approach to EVs and advanced technologies is characterized by a focus on scalability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction [31][32][33]