Toyota steps in with $1.5 billion order for LG’s Michigan battery plant

Toyota has made a significant strategic move by investing $1.5 billion in LG Energy Solution’s (LGES) battery plant in Lansing, Michigan. This decision follows General Motors’ withdrawal from the project, marking a shift in the electric vehicle battery supply chain landscape. By stepping in, Toyota strengthens its relationship with LGES while ensuring a stable battery supply for its expanding EV lineup.

Background of the Lansing Battery Plant

Initially, the Lansing battery plant was a joint venture between GM and LGES under the Ultium Cells partnership. The plant was intended to support GM’s ambitious EV expansion. However, in December 2024, GM opted to divest its $1 billion stake in the project, leading LGES to assume full ownership. This move left LGES searching for alternative buyers and partners to maintain financial and operational stability at the plant.

Toyota’s Investment Details

Rather than placing a new order, Toyota decided to transfer an existing $1.5 billion order from another LG plant in Michigan to the Lansing facility. This shift ensures the plant’s viability and maintains Toyota’s access to high-quality lithium-ion batteries. LGES is expected to complete its full acquisition of the Lansing facility by spring 2025.

The company emphasized that this strategic realignment is part of its broader plan to optimize investment in North America and strengthen partnerships with global automakers. The deal also highlights the increasing competition in securing reliable battery production amid a global push for electrification.

Beyond EV production, LGES is reportedly exploring ways to use the Lansing plant’s output for stationary energy storage applications, a growing sector driven by rising demand from data centers and artificial intelligence infrastructure. Industry analysts view Toyota’s move as a strategic win, both in securing a reliable battery source and supporting the US manufacturing sector.

Toyota’s $1.5 billion investment in LGES’s Michigan battery plant represents a crucial development in the EV industry. With Toyota securing its battery needs and LGES reinforcing its North American operations, the partnership highlights the growing importance of stable, localized EV battery production.

Sources:
Energy Storage
Just Auto