Battery Boom in the U.S. Seems Imminent in Light of Record Growth

While the U.S. dealt with political drama during last year’s elections, a huge shift in battery manufacturing was quietly happening. China still leads the world in battery production, but North America has become the fastest-growing region for new battery plants.

In 2025, 10 new plants are expected to open, despite the U.S. having a climate-skeptical president who opposes clean energy policies.

The U.S. automotive industry, which has seen record electric vehicle (EV) sales from brands like General Motors, Ford, and Hyundai, is preparing to make more of its own batteries. Several automakers are teaming up with battery giants to cut down on reliance on China, with battery production in the U.S. expected to double this year.

However, the future of these plants remains uncertain, as the new administration may scrap tax credits for EVs or introduce tariffs that could make vehicles and parts more expensive.

Automakers and battery makers, many of which are based in Republican states, are heavily invested in these plants, making it tough for lawmakers to walk back promises of new jobs. Evan Hartley, an analyst with Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, said, ‘You can’t stop it, and the momentum is there.’

One of the largest projects is Toyota’s $14 billion plant in Liberty, North Carolina, which will start producing batteries in April. Other companies like SK On, LG Energy Solution, Panasonic, and Samsung SDI are all building similar factories in the U.S. From Tennessee to Ohio, these plants are set to ramp up production in the coming years, adding thousands of new jobs.

Despite the political risks, the shift toward EVs in America is likely unstoppable. If battery plants succeed in cutting costs, demand for EVs could keep rising, even without government incentives. The future of the clean energy revolution may already be set in motion.

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