Tesla has been enjoying its dominance in the electric vehicle industry for a long time. Its impressive list of vehicles with advanced specs and features attract auto enthusiasts from all over the world. But, this dominance is challenged by various automakers, one of which is General Motors, which boasts its new battery technology.
New Battery Technology
Just recently, GM, the Detroit-based automaker, shared its latest Ultium batteries. The announcement came from GM CEO Mary Barra, who claimed that a lot of efforts in producing a competitive lineup of fully electric vehicles have something to do with batteries. The new battery technology of the company aims to produce a range of up to 400 miles or more.
Additionally, GM's Ultium batteries could provide an acceleration speed from 0 to 60 mph in a matter of 3 seconds. We also learned that the design of the upcoming battery could be altered in terms of layout and size, which makes it versatile to fit a wide range of vehicles. Interestingly, GM promises that its upcoming battery would be a lot cheaper than Tesla.
The Detroit-based company claims that its upcoming battery technology utilizes less cobalt, and it could cost below $100 per kilowatt-hour level. If this happens, it could be electric vehicles more competitive compared to gasoline-fueled vehicles. Interestingly, instead of the cylindrical cells design, Ultium batteries will be developed as rectangular pouches, which allows it to be stacked either vertically or horizontally.
Other Details
GM's new battery technology that offers 50 kWh to 200 kWh is ideal for cars and SUVs. It also promises to cut the charging time at 50 kWh fast chargers to around 10 minutes for 100 miles. The average charging time for that configuration is around 30 minutes.
GM intends to change the perception of the consumers about EV charging, and instead of comparing it to filling the tank, it should be likened to charging electronic devices like smartphones. The company is now working with its partners to install thousands of fast-charging stations in both urban and suburban areas.
There is no question about Tesla's dominance in the electric vehicle industry. However, GM's plan only reflects the fact that if traditional automakers with established names, market knowledge, deep pockets, and massive distribution infrastructure could equip themselves with superior battery technology, Tesla's reign could be threatened. The race for dominance in the industry is a long and ongoing process, and as always, nothing stays at the top for a long time uncontested.
