Here’s why Slate changed the battery in its cheap EV truck

Slate has changed its battery strategy for its low-cost electric pickup truck, replacing the originally planned nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells with lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries, resulting in increased range and lower costs.

On Wednesday, Slate revealed that it eliminated the optional 240-mile battery pack and increased the standard pack from 150 miles to 205 miles, citing a shift to LFP battery chemistry. This change reflects broader industry trends, as automakers increasingly adopt LFP cells due to their lower cost and improved safety profile.

The company initially planned to use NMC cells, favored for their higher energy density, but switched to LFP, which is about 40% cheaper and increasingly available from Chinese manufacturers. Slate is sourcing LFP cells from Gotion, a Hefei-based company, with production expected at a new Illinois facility.

The switch to LFP also aligns with the industry’s move toward cell-to-pack technology, which simplifies manufacturing and improves energy density. LFP cells can be charged to 100% with less degradation, allowing drivers to utilize the full capacity regularly. This makes LFP a practical choice for affordable EVs, especially as charging infrastructure improves.

Implications of Battery Chemistry Shift for Affordable EVs

This change demonstrates how battery cost reductions and technological advances are enabling automakers to offer more affordable electric vehicles with increased range. It highlights industry acceptance of LFP chemistry for budget models and reflects evolving supply chain dynamics, especially with Chinese manufacturers dominating LFP production. For consumers, this means potentially lower prices and more practical range in entry-level EVs, which could accelerate adoption among cost-conscious buyers.

Industry Trends Driving Battery Material Choices

Over the past four years, the EV industry has seen a significant shift from NMC to LFP batteries, driven by cost considerations and supply chain developments. Early U.S. battery startups like A123 Systems pioneered LFP technology, but Chinese companies now dominate its production due to lower costs and established manufacturing infrastructure. Regulatory changes, such as the removal of tax credits for foreign-sourced batteries, initially slowed adoption but recent policy shifts have reopened considerations for Chinese LFP suppliers. Automakers like Ford, GM, Rivian, and Tesla now incorporate LFP cells in their models, often utilizing cell-to-pack construction to optimize energy density and cost savings.

“We are committed to supplying high-quality LFP cells for the U.S. market, with production in Illinois aimed at supporting affordable EVs.”

— a representative from Gotion

Remaining Questions About Battery Performance and Supply

It is not yet clear how the long-term durability of LFP batteries in Slate’s truck will compare to NMC, especially under demanding conditions. Additionally, the full impact of supply chain constraints and potential geopolitical factors on the availability of Chinese-sourced LFP cells remains uncertain.

Next Steps in Slate’s Battery and Vehicle Rollout

Slate plans to begin production of its trucks with the new LFP batteries at its Illinois facility later this year. The company will likely monitor battery performance and customer feedback to validate the switch. Further updates on cost savings, range, and supply chain stability are expected as the model approaches market release.

Key Questions

Why did Slate switch from NMC to LFP batteries?

Slate switched primarily to reduce costs and improve safety, as LFP batteries are about 40% cheaper and can be charged to full capacity more reliably than NMC cells.

Will the switch to LFP affect the truck’s range?

Yes, the standard range increased from 150 miles to 205 miles with the new LFP battery pack, making it more competitive for budget buyers.

Does using LFP batteries limit the truck’s performance?

While LFP cells have lower energy density than NMC, advancements in chemistry and cell-to-pack technology help maintain adequate performance and longevity for everyday use.

Is the supply of LFP batteries secure for future production?

Most LFP cells are currently produced by Chinese manufacturers like Gotion, raising questions about supply chain stability given geopolitical considerations, though plans are underway to expand domestic production.

What does this mean for the cost of the truck?

The shift to cheaper LFP batteries is expected to help Slate keep the truck’s price around its initial target of under $25,000, making it more accessible for consumers.

Source: TechCrunch