General Motors Recruits Internationally Renowned Battery Specialist
2024-02-08
DETROIT – In its pursuit of an all-electric future, General Motors (GM) is actively investing in infrastructure and attracting top-tier talent to bring this vision to life. As part of this endeavor, GM has welcomed Kurt Kelty, a globally respected battery expert and former executive at Tesla, to serve as vice president of Batteries, reporting directly to GM President Mark Reuss.
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In his new role, Kelty will oversee GM’s battery cell strategy and implement a comprehensive approach. This will encompass the entire battery lifecycle, from raw materials sourcing, research, development, and technology investment to cell and pack commercialization, as well as end-of-life opportunities. Kelty’s team will play a crucial role in GM’s electrification strategy by combining the company’s existing battery development capabilities with industry knowledge to expedite the delivery of cost-effective, high-performing electric vehicles to a broader customer base.
“With GM’s strong foundation and Kurt’s exceptional expertise in leading battery chemistry development, forming partnerships, building supply chains, and collaborating with teams that have spearheaded innovative battery systems, we are well-positioned to achieve our electrification objectives and solidify GM’s position as a trailblazer in EV technology,” stated Reuss.
Kelty’s appointment and the heightened emphasis on battery cell technology are a natural extension of GM’s long-standing investments and infrastructure, enabling the identification, prototyping, and scalable production of next-generation technology. Kelty’s addition to the team will further expand and accelerate these initiatives, positioning GM as a frontrunner in the EV landscape.
“For over three decades, I have been dedicated to advancing and commercializing battery technologies to facilitate the transition to electric transportation. Joining GM presents a tremendous opportunity to drive industry-wide transformation and make a meaningful impact on our planet,” expressed Kelty.
Most recently, Kelty held a vice president role at Sila, where he oversaw sales, business expansion, battery cell manufacturing partnerships, and battery engineering related to the integration of Sila’s silicon anode material in high-energy density and fast-charging EVs.
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Prior to his tenure at Sila, Kelty led Tesla’s battery development team for eleven years, orchestrating technical collaborations and commercial negotiations with battery cell suppliers and early-stage developers. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Tesla’s first Gigafactory, the world’s largest facility for lithium-ion batteries and EV components. Kelty’s involvement in lithium-ion batteries dates back to 1993, when he collaborated with Panasonic to advance rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for portable devices.
General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a multinational corporation dedicated to advancing an inclusive and accessible all-electric future. At the core of this mission is the Ultium battery platform, designed to power a wide range of vehicles, from mass-market to high-performance models. General Motors, along with its subsidiaries and joint ventures, markets vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Baojun, and Wuling brands. More information about the company and its affiliates, including OnStar, a renowned provider of safety services and connected vehicle technology, can be accessed at