Battery Manufacturing a Core GM Competency

In yet another GM surprise, Mr. Wagoner announced that GM will establish the first Li-ion battery pack manufacturing facility in the USA operated by a major automaker with the initial goal to manufacture the Chevrolet Volt battery packs. The facility will be located in Michigan. LG Chem has been selected to supply the Li-ion cells and GM will open a new automotive battery lab - the largest of its kind - also in Michigan. A partnership with the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, has been established to develop a specialized curriculum for battery engineers.

The announcements, particularly that the facilities would be both here in the USA and in Michigan roused cheers from the attending journalists.

The audio of the announcement, pictures of the Li-ion battery pack, and more will be posted on this blog by 5pm EST.