South Korea’s LG Chem is strengthening its leadership in the global battery materials market. The company announced a major push in high-nickel cathode materials, aiming to increase performance and expand production. As the world’s top supplier of NCM cathodes, LG Chem continues to reinforce its global presence. Moreover, it plans to reshape the electric vehicle industry with innovative solutions.
LG Chem NCM cathode sales reached over 100,000 tons last year, highlighting its dominance in the market. The company is enhancing its lineup with premium high-nickel products for pouch and cylindrical batteries. These advanced cathodes contain about 80 percent nickel, offering higher energy density compared to standard NCM materials. Therefore, they enable longer ranges for electric vehicles, a key factor for automakers.
The company is also preparing to mass-produce ultra-high-nickel cathodes with over 95 percent nickel. Alongside this, it is developing single-crystal cathodes that improve durability and thermal stability. Furthermore, these innovations extend battery life while meeting rising performance demands from global carmakers. LG Chem NCM cathode sales will benefit from this expanded product mix.
At the same time, LG Chem recognizes the need for cost-effective solutions in today’s EV market. It is exploring cathodes with lower nickel or higher manganese content to reduce costs. This move aligns with the shift toward affordable models and changing subsidy policies in the United States. Consequently, LG Chem secures its competitiveness across multiple market segments.
A major step forward comes with LG Chem’s new cathode plant in Tennessee. The facility will produce 60,000 tons annually, making it the largest cathode factory in the United States. Additionally, it will serve as a global sales center, helping LG Chem expand beyond domestic clients. Executives expect the hub to capture a larger share of worldwide demand.
Currently, LG Chem still relies heavily on its battery subsidiary, LG Energy Solution. However, the new hub will diversify revenue by serving other automakers and global battery producers. The company forecasts up to 40 percent of revenue coming from these new clients. This transformation will help strengthen long-term business stability.
To secure resources, LG Chem is building strategic supply chain partnerships. It collaborates with Huayou Cobalt and Piedmont Lithium, seeking joint ventures and equity deals. Moreover, it has formed a joint venture with Korea Zinc to source cathode precursors. These partnerships ensure steady access to vital raw materials for sustained growth.
In addition, LG Chem has developed a direct cathode production method using metals without precursors. This innovation lowers costs, reduces supply chain risks, and strengthens independence. Therefore, it positions LG Chem as a more resilient and competitive global supplier. The company plans to expand this method for future mass production.
Through these strategies, LG Chem NCM cathode sales are set to grow further. The company continues to combine innovation with supply chain security to lead the market. Moreover, its US hub will accelerate growth, making South Korea a stronger player in battery technology.
