GM invests $500 million in Quebec to build a cathode plant
GM invests $500 million in Quebec to build a cathode plantThe relationship between General Motors (GM) and Quebec did not end well 20 years ago with the closure of the Sainte-Thérèse plant, but an important page has been turned with the announcement of the manufacturer's return to Quebec.
No, we will not see the birth of a new vehicle assembly plant, but a plan will emerge from the ground. The latter, which will be built on a site in Bécancour, will produce cathodes, the components needed to produce batteries.
GM is adding Canada to its North American supply chain for its electric vehicles. The good news for the country is that the proximity of such a plant will reduce dependence on materials imported from Asia.
GM is counting on South Korean partner Posco Chemical for the project. The plant will of course be responsible for processing materials for GM's Ultium batteries, which will appear in all future electric products in the family. Specifically, the site will process active cathode materials, a key battery material made from components such as processed nickel, lithium and other materials that account for about 40 percent of the cost of a battery cell.
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