U.S. automaker General Motors says it has signed a multi-year, multi-billion dollar deal with Norway's synthetic graphite manufacturer, Vianode, to provide it with anode materials for its electric vehicle batteries.
The synthetic graphite will be used for EV batteries made by the Ultium Cells joint venture between GM and LG Energy Solution.
According to Reuters, under the terms of the deal Vianode will launch production at a plant in North America in 2027, and the arrangement runs through to 2033.
"This project will help advance our battery technology and drive greater value to our customers," Jeff Morrison, GM's senior vice president of global purchasing and supply chain, said in a statement.
China controls 95% of the global supply of graphite, which is vital for EV battery production, leaving Western automakers and governments struggling to find alternative sources.
