Area Development
To support the electric vehicle battery value-chain in the U.S., South Korea-based LG Chem plans to establish a new cathode manufacturing facility in Clarksville, Tennessee. The $3.2 billion is expected to create 850 jobs in Montgomery County.

The facility, which will be constructed on 420 acres at the Allensworth site, will produce roughly 120,000 tons of cathode material annually by 2027, which is enough to power batteries in 1.2 million electric vehicles with a range of 310 miles per charge. Construction is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2023 and production by the second half of 2025.

“The new cathode manufacturing facility in Tennessee brings us one step closer to becoming the world’s best battery materials manufacturer and fulfilling our corporate vision to become a top global science company. This site will be the North American manufacturing center of excellence for the cathode supply chain and lead to the creation of many well-paying jobs, contributing to the local economy in Clarksville, CEO of LG Chem Hak-Cheol Shin explained.

The site will play a critical role in LG Chem’s strategy to increase its battery materials business by producing advanced NCMA cathode materials containing nickel, cobalt, manganese and aluminum for next-generation EV batteries with improved battery capacity and stability, according to state officials. The facility will rely completely on renewable energy provided by solar and hydroelectric power.

“This is a big win for Tennessee and Montgomery County. LG Chem’s decision to locate its new cathode manufacturing facility in Clarksville underscores Tennessee’s growing profile as a hub for U.S. and global companies. As we continue our efforts to attract companies in the automotive industry, we are focused on supporting companies that boost Tennessee’s presence in the EV space. I appreciate LG Chem for its substantial investment in Clarksville and look forward to building a successful partnership with the company in the years ahead,” noted TNECD Commissioner Stuart McWhorter.

Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, LG Chem Ltd., often referred to as LG Chemical has eight factories in South Korea and a network of 29 business locations in 15 countries.