GM Reveals Fourth-Generation EV Platform With LMR Batteries

General Motors, which recently moved into sodium-ion batteries for energy storage, has unveiled its fourth-generation electric vehicle platform, introducing a new battery chemistry, more efficient motors and a centralized computing system designed to make its next wave of EVs cheaper to build and more competitive.

GM says the new architecture delivers roughly 20% more range per kilowatt-hour while reducing vehicle complexity. The automaker plans to use it in the EV segments where it sells the most vehicles, which a spokesperson told InsideEVs means crossover SUVs.

The outlet also reported that GM said the platform allows for vehicles that are 15% lighter, with 20% less battery capacity overall. GM is separately developing more advanced driver assistance technology, with CEO Mary Barra recently confirming its eyes-off driving system remains on track for 2028.

New Batteries Promise Lower Costs and Longer Range

At the centre of the fourth-generation platform are lithium manganese rich (LMR) prismatic battery cells, made at Ultium Cells, GM’s joint venture with LG Energy Solution, in Spring Hill, Tennessee.

GM says the new chemistry is designed to deliver 33% more energy density than lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries at a comparable price, potentially allowing smaller battery packs without sacrificing range.

The platform also introduces redesigned motors and power electronics, cutting the parts inside each drive unit by 40%. Combined with the new cells and improved aerodynamics, these changes contribute to the projected efficiency gains.

Beyond the battery and motors, GM is replacing numerous individual vehicle computers with a centralized architecture offering 40 times more processing power, 30% less wiring and fewer control modules.

The system will debut on the Cadillac Escalade IQ in 2028, the same vehicle set to introduce GM’s autonomous (eyes-off) highway driving, before rolling out to GM’s fourth-generation EVs and other high-volume vehicles.

GM is also overhauling development and manufacturing. Engineers virtually tested more than 300,000 battery designs before building a physical prototype, while new production technology has already moved battery packs through assembly 30% faster.

GM has not announced specific fourth-generation EV models or launch dates. The bigger question is whether these improvements can translate into affordable vehicles as the automaker navigates slowing EV demand and its $11.2 billion EV retreat.

Always get the latest - make Drive Tesla your preferred source on Google

Are you buying a Tesla? If you enjoy our content and we helped in your decision, use our referral link to get three months of Full Self-Driving (FSD).

Drive Tesla uses affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.