General Motors is undertaking a massive overhaul of its battery production ecosystem, positioning itself as a dominant force in North America’s EV landscape. The automotive giant plans to increase North American content in its battery supply chain eightfold by 2028, a strategic move to reduce dependency on imports and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities. This transformation comes as GM has secured its place as North America’s second best-selling EV automaker, with sales increasing by 49% in Q1 2025 alone.
GM’s ambitious battery overhaul signals a strategic pivot toward domestic manufacturing while cementing its position as a North American EV powerhouse.
A cornerstone of GM’s strategy involves strategic partnerships and joint ventures. The Ultium Cells collaboration with LG Energy Solution has established GM as North America’s largest OEM battery cell producer. The recent agreement with Vianode to source synthetic graphite anode materials directly addresses China’s overwhelming 95% dominance of global graphite supply. I’ve observed few automakers making such decisive moves to secure critical materials domestically.
By 2030, Vianode’s North American facility will supply approximately 80,000 tons of synthetic graphite annually, enough to support roughly 1.5 million electric vehicles. GM’s upcoming joint venture with Samsung SDI, launching in 2027, will produce prismatic cells, expanding battery design flexibility across GM’s diverse model lineup of more than a dozen EVs.
The manufacturing scale-up is impressive. Ultium Cells facilities are rapidly increasing production to meet growing U.S. demand, while technological innovation remains at the forefront. The company is also exploring sodium-ion alternatives which could significantly reduce battery costs compared to traditional lithium-based solutions. GM’s battery architecture provides flexibility for multiple vehicle types, and synthetic graphite improves performance and longevity compared to traditional materials. GM’s implementation of prismatic cells has strategically reduced battery module parts by 75 percent, creating significant manufacturing efficiencies.
These initiatives extend beyond manufacturing prowess. Local sourcing reduces the environmental impact from global shipping, while sustainable sourcing addresses concerns over traditional mining practices. The company’s strategic cost reduction initiatives are expected to cut approximately US$6,000 from battery pack costs, making EVs more affordable without compromising range. The commitment to environmentally responsible production standards demonstrates GM’s awareness of broader industry responsibilities.
GM’s transformation represents a thorough approach to battery production that enhances American competitiveness in the global EV market while creating domestic manufacturing jobs. The strategy addresses supply chain vulnerabilities while positioning the company for sustained growth in an increasingly electrified automotive landscape.
