LG Energy Solution announced on Tuesday that a robust patent portfolio and sustained investment in research and development are critical for navigating the current global battery market slowdown and ensuring long-term technological dominance.
“A fierce global competition is underway to secure technological leadership,” stated Lee Han-sun, Executive Vice President at LG Energy Solution. “The decisive weapon in this race is premium patents, and we have established a strong competitive position in this crucial area.”
The company defines “premium patents” as high-value intellectual property characterized by both advanced technological innovation and comprehensive legal protection. As of October, LG Energy Solution possessed approximately 86,000 battery-related patents worldwide, a testament to over three decades of dedicated research into secondary battery technology.
The strength of this patent portfolio has translated into successful legal outcomes. The company recently won a patent infringement lawsuit concerning battery structures against a Chinese competitor. According to the patent management firm Tulip Innovation, this victory marks LG Energy Solution’s third legal win against the same company.
In addition to legal defenses, LG Energy Solution is increasing its R&D spending to bolster its competitive advantage. In the third quarter of 2025, research and development expenditures reached a record 997.6 billion won ($728 million), representing 5.6 percent of the company’s revenue.
Regarding product development, LG Energy Solution plans to expand its product line by integrating its cell-to-pack (CTP) technology into automotive lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for the first time, with deliveries expected to commence this year. The CTP design streamlines battery construction by eliminating the conventional module stage used in pouch-type batteries, resulting in improved energy density, cost efficiency, and enhanced safety.
The company is also actively developing lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries as a key component of its next-generation battery portfolio, aiming for commercialization by 2028 through a collaborative development program with General Motors. LMR batteries utilize a higher manganese content while reducing the dependence on nickel and cobalt, which helps lower material costs and mitigate supply chain risks.
Concurrently, LG Energy Solution has filed approximately 450 patents related to dry electrode manufacturing technology, an innovative process designed to improve production efficiency and overall battery performance.
“We have secured core patents across the entire battery value chain, from materials and electrode design to manufacturing processes,” a company official stated. “By leveraging our premium patents and continuous technological advancements, we aim to strengthen our mass-production capabilities and broaden our portfolio of next-generation battery products.”
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