Batteries and electric motors are two fundamental factors for the development and improvement of green mobility. General Motors (GM) has put part of its resources into developing the Ultium brand, which aims to reduce the use of rare earths on electrified engines to meet the growing demand over the medium to long term.
This represents a far-sighted vision by the American manufacturer, because when electric cars cease to be a ‘small project’ in less advanced countries regarding this issue and become a sales model on a global scale, the shortage of metals extracted from rare earths for sustainable engines could become a problem.
General Motors thought big and chose to develop the Ultium engine technology to power its next generation of electrified power units. The smallest of this family is capable of delivering 62 kW (83 horsepower) with all-wheel drive as its main virtue.
The first one offers 180 kW (240 horsepower), while the last one offers 255 kW (342 horsepower). Notably, both can be located on either axle of the platform and feature permanent magnet technology.
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While one is more advanced than the other, all three powertrains are assembled within design parameters despite having different power levels and technological uses. The first GM vehicle to use the Ultium family of engines is expected to be the Hummer EV with three Ultium units.
“A problem with so many variables can be solved in different ways (regarding rare earths). If you look at the amount of neodymium and additives like lithium, dysprosium terbium that we use, you will see that it is a minimal amount, just where it is needed to get the greatest effect. We have a safe, sustainable, ethically sourced material guaranteed with audits,” says Tim Grewe, Director of Global Battery Systems and Electrification at General Motors.
About General Motors
General Motors is a global company committed to providing safer, better and more sustainable ways for people to get around. General Motors, its subsidiaries and joint ventures sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Holden, Baojun and Wuling brands.
Written by | Ronald Ortega
