Home / Business and Economy / GM Bets on US-Made Batteries, Skips China
GM Bets on US-Made Batteries, Skips China
12 Sep
Summary
- GM is developing next-generation battery cells domestically.
- The company aims to reduce U.S. dependence on China.
- Sodium-ion batteries are a key focus for energy storage.
General Motors is in the nascent stages of developing next-generation battery cells, with a strategic objective to reduce the United States' dependence on China for these critical components. The company aims to establish a fully domestic supply chain within the next two to three years.
This initiative primarily targets battery cells for energy storage systems (ESS), which are stationary devices for homes and businesses. GM is collaborating with startup Peak Energy to develop sodium-ion battery cells for commercial production expected around 2029.
The automaker also plans to apply this domestic-first approach to battery cell production for its future electric vehicles. This move comes as rivals face scrutiny over ties to Chinese companies, with GM emphasizing its commitment to developing technology sourced and manufactured entirely within the U.S.
GM views sodium-ion batteries as a promising alternative to lithium-ion, citing potential advantages in wider temperature tolerance and longevity. This approach could allow GM to "leapfrog" current Chinese battery technologies by focusing on superior, domestically sourced alternatives, particularly for ESS applications where cost and complexity are key factors.
