Our EV strategy leverages a highly flexible global EV platform powered by our proprietary Ultium propulsion system.
Ultium: A Revolutionary EV Platform
Built on a flexible battery architecture for the production of EVs across different vehicle types with outstanding power, range and performance.
300+ miles1 GM-estimated range of
up to 300+ miles.
10 minutes2 Level 2 and direct current (DC) fast charging with the capability to charge nearly 100 miles of range in 10 minutes.
50 to 200 kWh Battery energy storage ranging from 50 to 200 kWh.
Ultium Drive Ultium Drive units to support front-wheel, rear-wheel, all-wheel and performance all-wheel drive applications.
~3 seconds GM-estimated acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in as little as approximately 3 seconds on the GMC Hummer EV.
GM’s Ultium-based EVs are powered by rectangular, pouch-style battery cells that are simple, lightweight and space-efficient. Our ability to stack the long pouch cells vertically or horizontally is unique in the industry and allows for a flat cabin floor and more interior room than comparable EVs that use cylindrical battery packs. This platform can power mobility across a broad range of price points from luxury vehicles to work trucks to high-performance vehicles. As a result, Ultium is enabling GM to compete on an entirely new level and pursue nearly every customer type and preference in the market.
In 2021, we increased our vertical integration of key supply chains to accelerate technology adoption, drive down costs and mitigate supply chain risks. One of these initiatives includes next-generation silicon carbide devices that will be used in the integrated power electronics contained within Ultium Drive units in next-generation EVs. The device enables system efficiencies while lowering weight and conserving space. We also are working to reduce supply chain risks by improving supplies of heavy and light rare earth materials and magnets, copper and electrical steel—all critical components used in the manufacturing of electric motors for automotive and renewable power generation. As an example, we are forming a strategic relationship and commercial collaboration with Controlled Thermal Resources to secure local and low-cost lithium from the Salton Sea area of California. This lithium will be produced through a closed-loop, direct extraction process that results in a smaller physical footprint, no production tailing and lower carbon emissions when compared to traditional processes like pit mining or evaporation ponds. Importantly, the agreement positions us to source lithium through a U.S. supplier. These initiatives help us ensure availability of critical materials, drive supply chain innovation and, ultimately, deliver both higher-quality and more affordable vehicles to our customers.
2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV RS available Fall 2023. Availability of LT shown to be announced at a later date.
Ultium represents a milestone achievement in electrification, with battery pack costs nearly 40% lower compared to the previous generation, and we expect the second generation Ultium packs will cost nearly 60% less than the batteries used today3. We are committed to continuous manufacturing, materials and packaging efficiencies, high-energy cell design and increased vertical integration with local production that are expected to deliver greater energy density at a lower cost.
We also are incorporating responsible battery recycling considerations. Today we refurbish, recycle or reuse 100% of batteries returned to us and apply the lessons in future design. Among the recycling initiatives that we are pursuing is a collaboration with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) U.S. Advanced Battery Consortium and recyclers to advance lithium-ion battery recycling. These projects are validating recycled materials as alternatives to mined materials for battery manufacturing with the goal of reducing future needs for mining. Learn more in Design for the Environment.
- Actual range will vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age, loading, use and maintenance.
- GM-estimated. Actual charge times will vary based on battery condition, output of charger, vehicle settings and outside temperature.
- Cost reduction might vary by region and cell chemistry.
