GM Inks Deal to Source Synthetic Graphite from Norway’s Vianode

General Motors (GM) has significantly strengthened its electric vehicle (EV) production by partnering with Norway’s Vianode. This multi-billion-dollar agreement will see Vianode supply GM with synthetic graphite, a critical material for lithium-ion batteries. It also aligns with GM’s goals of creating a more sustainable and resilient EV supply chain.

Graphite is an essential component in EV batteries, specifically for the anode, or the negative terminal. It is also one of the heaviest components of the battery, accounting for approximately 40% of the total carbon emissions during battery production. Currently, China dominates the global supply of battery-grade graphite, raising concerns about supply chain reliability and environmental impact.

Countries like the U.S. and members of the European Union (EU) are actively promoting local sources for battery materials to reduce reliance on imports. This has created opportunities for companies like Vianode, which specializes in producing synthetic graphite with a much smaller carbon footprint.

Unlike traditional graphite, which is mined and purified through environmentally harmful processes, Vianode’s synthetic graphite is manufactured with 90% fewer carbon emissions. Additionally, synthetic graphite offers a scalability advantage. Establishing a natural graphite mine can take a decade, while a synthetic graphite plant can be operational within two to three years. These benefits make synthetic graphite a more sustainable and efficient choice for the rapidly growing EV market.

Under this agreement, Vianode will supply synthetic graphite to Ultium Cells, a joint venture between GM and LG Energy Solution. This material will be used in GM’s next-gen EV batteries as well as drive units. Vianode aims to start production at a newly established factory in North America by 2027.  By 2030, the facility is expected to produce enough synthetic graphite for 3 million electric vehicles annually, supporting GM’s ambitious EV production goals.

While the exact location of the factory has not been finalized, Vianode is actively considering sites in Canada. Discussions with both federal and provincial officials suggest Ontario or Quebec as potential locations. The company has already registered a business in Ontario and is hiring for roles in Toronto and Michigan, indicating that a decision may be imminent.

The partnership represents a critical step for GM in reducing its dependence on international suppliers, particularly in China, while also minimizing the environmental impact of its batteries. Vianode’s synthetic graphite not only reduces CO2 emissions but also enhances battery performance, enabling faster charging and longer lifespan.

By investing in sustainable materials and localized production, GM is demonstrating its commitment to innovation and leadership in the EV industry. This collaboration with Vianode is set to reshape the EV supply chain and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for transportation.

The graphite segment in North America is gearing up to be vibrant in the coming years. Firms like Reflex Advanced Materials Corp. (CSE: RFLX) (OTCQB: RFLXF) are making progress in developing graphite-rich properties and once production starts, the supply of natural graphite in the region will significantly increase.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to Reflex Advanced Materials Corp. (CSE: RFLX) (OTCQB: RFLXF) are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/RFLXF

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