First U.S. Automotive Lithium Ion Battery Plant to Open

General Motors Facility to Manufacture Battery Packs for Electric Vehicles, Create More than 100 Jobs The Volt is getting one step closer to lighting up the road. In an effort to deliver more fuel efficient vehicles to American drivers, GM is investing $43 million to manufacture lithium ion battery packs for its extended-range electric vehicles. The new battery plant in Brownstown Township, Michigan will be the first in the U.S. operated by a major automaker. Utilizing part of the grant money awarded by the Obama administration, the investment includes the renovation and lease costs of a 160,000-square-foot facility, new machinery and equipment. Equipment installation at the site will begin in August and the first batteries are slated to be completed in early 2010 to support the Volt's launch. In addition to manufacturing the batteries and components for electric cars, the new facility will create more than 100 new jobs. Produced for General Motors