LG Energy Solution (LGES) has officially taken over a $2.5 billion electric vehicle battery plant in Lansing and Delta Township after acquiring General Motors’s stake in the project. The Michigan Strategic Fund Board approved amendments Tuesday, transferring a $120 million performance-based grant from Ultium Cells LLC to LG Energy Solution, ensuring the development moves forward under its sole ownership.
Officials have noted the 2.8-million-square-foot facility is 98% complete and will manufacture advanced battery cells for electric vehicles and other applications. Originally developed under Ultium Cells—a 50/50 partnership between GM and South Korea-based LGES—the site will now be fully operated by LG Energy Solution.
Currently, about 1,000 skilled tradespeople are finishing construction. Once fully operational, LG Energy Solution expects to create up to 1,700 jobs, exceeding the job creation requirements outlined in the state’s critical industry program grant. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor praised the development, calling it a major economic boost for the region.
According to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation press release, Robert (Bob) Lee, Corporate Executive Vice President and Head of North America at LGES, said,“With its talented workforce and location in the heart of the U.S. auto industry, we see Michigan as a great bet to continue investing in.” He continued, “We are playing a critical role in onshoring this strategic technology, and our investment in Lansing underscores our belief in the state.”
Additionally, during Tuesday’s meeting, GM regional director of state and local public policy George Cook stated that the grant amendments provide a clean separation of agreements, allowing LG Energy Solution to proceed with the next phase of production. GM, meanwhile, remains committed to expanding EV production at its Orion Assembly plant, with operations expected to begin next year.
Moreover, the Michigan Strategic Fund Board approved a request from Pontiac-based Williams International Co. LLC to remove a portion of its land from an MSF-Designated Renaissance Zone. This adjustment allows the company to sell parcels to DTE Electric Company and International Transmission Company for infrastructure improvements, with a deadline for completion set for mid-2025.
