GM develops sodium-ion batteries with Peak Energy

General Motors is developing next-generation sodium-ion battery cells to curb reliance on materials dominated by China, according to a CNBC report on September 12, 2026. The automaker has teamed up with Denver-based startup Peak Energy to develop cells for stationary energy storage systems.

The project uses domestic materials such as sodium derived from soda ash rather than lithium. GM noted that sodium-ion chemistry can function across a broader temperature range and endure more charge cycles than incumbent technologies. Kurt Kelty, GM vice president of battery and sustainability, told CNBC that the company aims to establish a domestic supply chain within the next two to three years.

The effort highlights differing corporate paths as Washington scrutinizes ties to Chinese automotive suppliers. While Ford Motor Company licenses battery technology from China's CATL for its wholly owned plant in Marshall, Michigan, GM is focusing on developing domestic intellectual property. However, China still controls about 98% of global lithium iron phosphate cathode materials, leaving both automakers exposed to foreign refining capacity.

GM still faces a prolonged commercialization process. Its initial sodium-ion work with Peak Energy focuses on stationary storage for the electric grid rather than immediate electric vehicle applications, meaning the company must still prove the technology can cut costs and protect future margins.