General Motors is a something of a silent warrior among electric vehicle giants. Though they weren't a hit with car buyers, the company's early efforts at EV development back in the 1990s paved the way for the Teslas and Rivians of today.

The new batteries and packs utilize more-prevalent, less-expensive minerals and are lighter and more cost-effective.

GM says it has developed cells that will make batteries cheaper and more energy dense. The automaker aims to be the first to bring them to market.