# GM’s Electric Vehicle Transformation: Insights into Ultium, Battery Advancement, and the Road Ahead for Electric Mobility
General Motors (GM) is making notable progress in the electric vehicle (EV) domain, establishing itself as a significant contender in the global transition to electrification. Nonetheless, this path has had its obstacles, including the widely reported complications with the Chevrolet Bolt’s battery packs. Even with these hurdles, GM has experienced a remarkable increase in EV sales and is on track to become the second-largest EV provider in the U.S., behind only Tesla. This article will delve into GM’s recent achievements, the progression of its battery technology, and what lies ahead for the automaker as it moves away from its “Ultium” branding.
## The Chevrolet Bolt Battery Recall: An Important Takeaway
Before examining GM’s present EV scenario, it is essential to acknowledge a significant issue: the Chevrolet Bolt’s battery recall. The problems with the Bolt were not trivial—there was a defect in the battery packs that posed a fire hazard due to improperly folded cell tabs. This led to an extensive and expensive recall, damaging the reputation of GM’s initial EV ventures. However, it’s important to highlight that this issue was confined to the Bolt and does not reflect GM’s wider battery strategy.
The recall compelled GM to rigorously assess its battery production methods, and the company has enacted considerable enhancements since then. The insights gained from the Bolt recall have shaped the creation of GM’s next-generation EVs, mitigating the likelihood of similar problems in the future.
## GM’s EV Sales Growth: A Silver Lining in a Declining Market
In spite of the challenges linked to the Bolt recall and a 2 percent overall dip in total vehicle sales, GM’s EV sales have skyrocketed. In the third quarter of 2024, the car manufacturer reported a year-over-year increase of over 60 percent in EV sales, moving approximately 200,000 electric vehicles. This momentum positions GM to overtake Ford as the second-largest EV seller in the U.S., marking a significant achievement in the company’s electrification efforts.
Key to this growth has been the launch of more budget-friendly EVs, such as the $35,000 Chevrolet Equinox EV, which has begun to reach dealerships. The Equinox EV exemplifies GM’s capability to create electric vehicles that cater to a broad audience, delivering an appealing mix of affordability, range, and features.
## The Ultium Framework: A Brand That Didn’t Gain Traction
At the heart of GM’s EV approach has been its Ultium platform, a versatile battery and propulsion system aimed at powering a wide spectrum of electric vehicles. Ultium was presented as revolutionary, providing adaptability in battery size, range, and performance. Yet, despite its technological advantages, the Ultium brand failed to gain momentum beyond GM’s internal teams and automotive reporters.
Consequently, GM has opted to retire the Ultium brand for its EV batteries and technologies. According to Kurt Kelty, GM’s vice president for battery cell and pack, the company is shifting away from a “one-size-fits-all” strategy towards implementing more program-specific batteries. Although the Ultium name will continue to be utilized in reference to GM’s collaborative manufacturing sites and various facilities, it will no longer represent GM’s EV battery technology.
## The Future of GM’s Battery Technology: Entering a New Phase of Innovation
As GM moves past the Ultium branding, the company is intensifying its focus on battery research and development. GM has plans for a new battery R&D facility at its Warren Tech Center in Michigan, where it will explore a range of battery technologies, including cylindrical and prismatic cells, as well as pouch cells. The new facility will also examine alternative battery chemistries, underscoring GM’s determination to remain at the forefront of battery innovation.
A notable shift in GM’s battery strategy is the transition from nickel-manganese-cobalt-aluminum (NMCA) cells to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for the second-generation Chevrolet Bolt. LFP batteries are recognized for their lower expenses, enhanced safety, and extended longevity compared to NMCA cells, making them an appealing choice for mainstream EVs. While LFP batteries typically exhibit lower energy density, advancements in battery technology are narrowing this gap, presenting them as a suitable option for various electric vehicles.
## GM’s 2024 EV Lineup: A Work in Progress
While GM has ambitious intentions to roll out 22 new EVs, the reality for North American consumers in 2024 is somewhat more restrained. At best, GM will offer half that number of EV models, and this count includes custom-built units like the Cadillac Celestiq, a high-end electric flagship that features considerable 3D printing in its production process.
Despite the slower-than-anticipated rollout of new offerings, GM’s existing EV lineup is wide-ranging, featuring affordable alternatives such as the Chevrolet
