General Motors appoints Kurt Kelty, former Tesla executive, as Vice President of Batteries
General Motors has announced the appointment of Kurt Kelty as the automaker’s new vice president of batteries. This new role marks an important step for the company as it seeks to expand its production of battery packs for the Ultium platform, designed to power its upcoming electric vehicles.
Kelty brings a wealth of experience to GM, having previously served as the head of Tesla’s battery team for over a decade. During his time at Tesla, Kelty played a key role in the development of battery chemistry and the establishment of strategic partnerships. He also has experience working with Panasonic, Tesla’s partner in cell development at the Gigafactory in Nevada.
In a statement, GM president Mark Reuss expressed confidence in Kelty’s expertise, stating, “The foundation that GM has established coupled with Kurt’s exceptional battery expertise in leading battery chemistry development, establishing partnerships, building out supply chains and partnering closely with teams that have developed leading battery systems will help us achieve our electrification goals and position GM as a leader in EV technology.”
Kelty’s appointment comes at a crucial time for GM as it aims to accelerate its electrification efforts and establish itself as a leader in the EV market. With his background in battery technology and commercialization, Kelty is expected to contribute significantly to GM’s ambitious electrification goals.
In addition to his experience at Tesla, Kelty most recently served as the vice president of commercialization at Sila Nanotechnologies, where he played a key role in developing a silicon-based anode that promises to significantly increase the energy density of lithium-ion batteries.
Kelty’s first day at General Motors is set for February 19, and his appointment is already generating excitement as the company prepares to take its electrification efforts to new heights.
