GM and LG Energy Solution Push New Battery Chemistry to Avoid China's Grip

GM and LG Energy Solution plan to mass-produce lithium-manganese-rich batteries for electric trucks—cheaper than nickel-heavy designs, yet stronger than iron-phosphate cells. The rush reflects a real fear: Chinese makers CATL and BYD already control LFP battery supply chains. Missing the next wave of battery chemistry means losing control of the supply chain before Western automakers catch on.