GM to Source U.S.-Based Lithium for Next-Generation EV Batteries Through Closed-Loop Process with Low Carbon Emissions

Rhea-AI Summary

General Motors has entered a strategic investment and collaboration with Controlled Thermal Resources (CTR) to secure local, low-cost lithium for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This partnership focuses on a closed-loop extraction process, minimizing environmental impact and emissions compared to traditional mining methods. GM is the first investor in CTR's Hell's Kitchen project, with plans to source future lithium needs domestically. The first lithium production is expected in 2024. This move aligns with GM's commitment to an all-electric future, aiming for zero tailpipe emissions by 2035.

Positive

• Strategic investment in CTR to secure low-cost lithium.
• Closed-loop extraction process minimizes environmental impact.
• First rights on lithium production from CTR's Hell's Kitchen project.
• Aligns with GM's $35 billion commitment to EVs and sustainability.
• Lithium production expected to begin in 2024, enhancing lithium supply chain.

Negative

• None.

DETROIT, July 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- General Motors has agreed to form a strategic investment and commercial collaboration with Controlled Thermal Resources to secure local and low-cost lithium. 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 dioxide emissions when compared to traditional processes like pit mining or evaporation ponds. 

Lithium is a metal crucial to GM's plans to make more affordable, higher mileage electric vehicles.

The relationship between GM and CTR is expected to accelerate the adoption of lithium extraction methods that cause less impact to the environment. A significant amount of GM's future battery-grade lithium hydroxide and carbonate could come from CTR's Hell's Kitchen Lithium and Power development in the Salton Sea Geothermal Field, located in Imperial, California. With the help of GM's investment, CTR's closed-loop, direct extraction process will recover lithium from geothermal brine.

As an anticipated part of its $35 billion global commitment to EVs and autonomous vehicles , GM will be the first company to make a multi-million dollar investment in CTR's Hell's Kitchen project. As the first investor, GM will have first rights on lithium produced by the first stage of the Hell's Kitchen project, including an option for a multi-year relationship.

"Lithium is critical to battery production today and will only become more important as consumer adoption of EVs increases, and we accelerate towards our all-electric future," said Doug Parks, GM executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain. "By securing and localizing the lithium supply chain in the U.S., we're helping ensure our ability to make powerful, affordable, high mileage EVs while also helping to mitigate environmental impact and bring more low-cost lithium to the market as a whole. GM looks forward to working with CTR, in addition to state and local leaders, in achieving these goals."

Batteries are and will remain one of the largest cost drivers of EVs. Lithium is a key battery material used in the cathodes and electrolytes of GM EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV. Lithium will become even more important in battery use as GM explores lithium metal batteries with a protected anode.

Most lithium used in lithium-ion batteries is currently mined and processed outside of the U.S.

The first stage of the Hell's Kitchen project is expected to begin yielding lithium in 2024, helping GM to meet its aspiration of eliminating tailpipe emissions from light-duty vehicles by 2035.

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global company focused on advancing an all-electric future that is inclusive and accessible to all. At the heart of this strategy is the Ultium battery platform, which will power everything from mass-market to high-performance vehicles. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Baojun and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, can be found at https://www.gm.com. 

 

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SOURCE General Motors Co.

FAQ

What is GM's recent partnership about?

GM has partnered with Controlled Thermal Resources to secure local lithium for EV batteries.

How will GM's investment in CTR impact lithium supply?

GM's investment will enable CTR to produce lithium using a low-impact, closed-loop process, starting in 2024.

What are GM's goals regarding electric vehicles?

GM aims to eliminate tailpipe emissions from light-duty vehicles by 2035.

Why is lithium important for GM?

Lithium is crucial for producing batteries for GM's electric vehicles, including the Chevrolet Bolt.

What is the expected timeline for lithium production from CTR?

Lithium production from CTR's Hell's Kitchen project is expected to begin in 2024.