Samsung SDI and GM Sign Next-Gen Prismatic Battery Deal; Samsung SDI Buys Out Joint Venture Stake
Samsung SDI and General Motors will co-develop next-generation prismatic EV batteries, and Samsung SDI is buying GM's 49.99% stake in their Indiana joint venture plant.
- 49.99%
What Happened
Samsung SDI announced on August 11, 2026 that it has signed a new joint development agreement with General Motors for a next-generation prismatic battery cell for potential future EV applications. The two companies will co-develop prismatic batteries featuring high energy density and fast charging capability. The new agreement extends the partnership between Samsung SDI and GM on their commitment to an electrified future.
As part of the deal, Samsung SDI has acquired GM's 49.99% stake in the joint venture SynergyCells, which the partners had established in New Carlisle, Indiana. The ownership change was made in consideration of market changes since the joint venture was announced, including the slower-than-expected growth of EV demand. The two partners have now decided to seek other forms of cooperation other than the joint venture.
By acquiring the joint venture stake, Samsung SDI establishes its first independently operated battery production base in North America. The battery plant is currently under construction; once completed, Samsung SDI will start off by utilizing the plant for production of batteries for energy storage systems (ESS), responding to the rapidly growing ESS market in the U.S. In the future, the plant could potentially include prismatic cells jointly developed with GM.
“While reflecting recent market changes, this acquisition decision is to continue the strategic partnership with GM. We will continue our commitment to an electrified future with the partner, while utilizing the plant to proactively respond to the fast-growing ESS market in the U.S.”
Previously from Samsung SDI
Samsung SDI recently returned to profitability in Q2 2026, posting KRW 3.77 trillion in revenue and operating profit of KRW 203.8 billion, its first operating profit in seven quarters and ahead of its own turnaround target. The company has also been expanding its automotive business, having signed its first EV battery supply deal with Mercedes-Benz in April 2026.
- Samsung SDI Returns to Profitability Ahead of Schedule in Q2 2026, Revenue Up 18.5%
- Samsung SDI Signs First EV Battery Supply Deal with Mercedes-Benz
Background drawn from MotorClaw's earlier coverage of Samsung SDI's official releases.
Why this matters
The deal gives Samsung SDI its first wholly-owned battery plant in North America while allowing the two partners to keep working together on future EV cells. Because EV demand has grown slower than expected, Samsung SDI will initially use the New Carlisle, Indiana plant to make energy-storage-system batteries, responding to the fast-growing U.S. ESS market. For GM, selling its stake ends the joint venture without ending the strategic partnership.
Terms in This Story
- Prismatic battery
- A battery cell with a rectangular, flat shape, commonly used in electric vehicles to pack more energy efficiently.
- Energy storage system (ESS)
- A system that stores electricity for later use, such as from renewable sources or for grid stability.
- Joint venture
- A business arrangement in which two or more parties share ownership and control of a project or company.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.