• Dagong ESS

How LMR Batteries Could Replace High-Nickel NMC in the Next Decade

What is LMR and High-Nickel NMC Battery?

In the field of Energy Storage Systems (ESS), different lithium-ion chemistries are being explored to balance safety, cost, and performance. High-Nickel Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries are widely used in electric vehicles due to their high energy density. However, they rely heavily on nickel and cobalt, which are costly and subject to supply chain risks.

Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) batteries, by contrast, use a manganese-rich layered oxide cathode with small amounts of nickel and cobalt. With theoretical capacities exceeding 250 mAh/g, LMR offers the promise of higher energy density at lower cost by reducing dependence on expensive metals.

Types of LMR and High-Nickel NMC Batteries

• LMR Batteries

Manganese-Rich Layered Oxides: High capacity but facing voltage fade issues.

Surface-Coated LMR: Modified with coatings to improve stability.

LMR-Solid-State Concepts: Combining with solid electrolytes to enhance performance.

• High-Nickel NMC

NMC 811 and Beyond: Used in EVs for long-range capability.

Coated/Gradient NMC: Modified for better thermal stability.

High-Nickel Pouch/Prismatic Cells: Dominant in automotive applications.

Features of LMR vs High-Nickel NMC

• LMR

High theoretical energy density (>900 Wh/L).

Abundant manganese resource and low raw material cost.

Environmental advantage with reduced cobalt usage.

Challenges: voltage fade, limited cycle life, lack of commercial maturity.

• High-Nickel NMC

High gravimetric and volumetric energy density.

Well-established industrial production.

Dependence on costly nickel and cobalt.

Safety concerns with thermal runaway.

Applications of LMR vs High-Nickel NMC

• LMR Applications
  In the next decade, LMR may gradually replace high-nickel NMC in long-range EV batteries once technical issues are resolved. It could also expand to stationary storage if cycle life improves.

• NMC Applications
  Currently the dominant choice for premium electric vehicles, NMC provides high mileage and compact pack designs. However, rising raw material costs and sustainability concerns are pressuring manufacturers to seek alternatives like LFP and future LMR.

In the meantime, LFP ESS solutions—such as 215kWh air-cooled and 372kWh liquid-cooled systems—continue to dominate stationary storage markets.

Price of LMR and NMC Batteries

The cost of energy storage systems for renewable energy integration depends on several factors, including system capacity, storage duration, battery type, control software, installation conditions, and auxiliary equipment.

Pricing is usually quoted under international trade terms such as EXW, FOB, or CIF, depending on project location and logistics preferences. For a tailored quotation based on your specific project needs, it's best to consult directly with the supplier.

How to Select Between LMR and High-Nickel NMC?

• Short Term: For commercial projects requiring proven technology, high-nickel NMC remains a leading choice for EVs, while LFP dominates storage.

• Mid Term: LMR may be tested in pilot EV programs, especially where high capacity and low cost are priorities.

• Long Term: With breakthroughs in cycle life and voltage stability, LMR could replace high-nickel NMC, reducing reliance on cobalt and nickel.

How Long Does LMR and High-Nickel NMC Last?

• LMR: Currently limited by voltage fade after a few hundred cycles, but expected to reach >2000 cycles with ongoing material innovations.

• High-Nickel NMC: Generally offers 1000–2000 cycles in EV applications, but safety concerns and degradation remain key challenges.

• LFP Systems: For comparison, solutions like 241kWh air-cooled or 3.35MWh liquid-cooled container ESS offer 8,000+ cycles and 15+ years of service life.

The Supplier of LMR and NMC Batteries

LMR batteries are still at the research stage, with universities and R&D centers leading development. High-nickel NMC is produced by major global battery makers, mainly for electric vehicles.

For energy storage, LFP solutions dominate the commercial market. System integrators such as Dagong ESS provide modular products ranging from 5kWh home units to 5MWh containerized solutions, ensuring safe and long-lasting performance.

If you are interested in large-scale energy storage systems such as 3.35MWh liquid-cooled BESS or 5MWh liquid-cooled BESS, please contact Dagong ESS:
Email: sales@dagongess.com
Website: www.dagongess.com