The next-generation Chevrolet Bolt will get a Chinese battery
General Motors has confirmed that it will import batteries from China Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) for the next generation of its most affordable electric model. This is a temporary measure until the joint venture with LG increases production in the US.
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GM emphasises that buying batteries in China is a temporary measure. In the long term, the company intends to set up its own production of cheaper batteries based on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry in the US, which is scheduled to launch in 2027.
Ford, which is also relying on CATL technology to reduce production costs, is facing similar challenges. However, Ford has a different scheme: it is licensing CATL's developments and building its own LFP battery plant in Michigan, scheduled to start up in 2026. Both strategies reflect reality: China remains the leader in battery technology, and it will be difficult for US companies to compete with Chinese companies in the near term.
For buyers, the main event will be a new version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, production of which starts this year at GM's Fairfax, Kansas, plant. According to GM CEO Mary Barra, the model will get "significant improvements" - a more modern design, faster charging and increased range. It will be GM's first North American vehicle with an LFP battery and on the new Ultium platform.
However, the decision to import batteries is not without political and economic risks. Against the backdrop of trade disputes and duties (tariffs) on Chinese imports, buying finished battery packs abroad becomes a serious financial challenge.
However, analysts believe that in the next couple of years this scheme may be economically viable for GM. According to Telemetry expert Sam Abuelsamid, when combined with other cost-saving measures, the new Bolt with Chinese batteries could still be profitable or close to it.
Official specs and pricing have not yet been named, but the second-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV is expected to hit the market in 2026 with a base price of about $30,000 and a range of about 300 miles (480 kilometres).
Source: WSJ
