The plant, which will produce cells for longer-lasting, more affordable EVs, was originally set to open by the end of this year.
General Motors has delayed the opening of its Ultium Cells production plant in Spring Hill, TN, originally scheduled before the end of 2023, due to construction delays, the automaker said in its Q3 earnings call in late October.
GM’s Ultium project will enable a new platform of EVs for the legacy automaker, bringing a software-based offensive to one of the U.S.’s best-selling car companies and a major player in the EV sector. The company has been producing Ultium cells at another plant in Warren, OH.
GM Authority noted the automaker is also planning to bump up starting wages for production operators and quality inspectors at the Spring Hill plant.
GM is one of three automakers that has been in tense negotiations with the UAW, attempting to come to terms over a new contract that would increase pay and benefits for unionized workers. Ford did so late Oct. 25, ending weeks of work stoppages, but Stellantis and GM are still negotiating.
GM’s Spring Hill plant is expected to come online in early 2024, ramping up the availability of Ultium cells that will be available for EVs that will operate under the platform.
The Ultium cells will increase affordability, enable faster charging times and increase vehicle longevity. Seven current GM models are using Ultium cells: GMC Hummer EV, BrightDrop Zevo 600 van, Chevrolet Silverado EV, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Cadillac LYRIQ, Buick Electra E5 and Buick Electra E4.
Additionally, future vehicles, including the Equinox EV, Honda Prologue, Escalade IQ, the next Chevrolet Bolt and the ultra-luxurious Cadillac Celestiq, will operate on the Ultium platform.
Abby Andrews