GM Pivots to Energy Storage in Data-Center Push Echoing Ford

General Motors (GM) is expanding into stationary electricity storage through a collaboration with startup Peak Energy Technologies, targeting the rising demand from artificial intelligence data centers. The partnership, announced at an event in San Francisco on Tuesday, focuses on developing batteries capable of storing energy during off-peak hours for grid use. GM’s move follows Ford Motor Co.’s recent shift into energy storage, which saw its shares surge due to investor speculation. The automaker aims to leverage its electric vehicle (EV) fleet by allowing customers to use their plugged-in EVs to store energy for grid support, helping utilities manage power demands from AI operations. The initiative aligns with broader industry trends, where automakers are diversifying beyond traditional vehicle production. GM’s strategy could position it as a key player in the growing energy storage market, particularly as AI data centers require more reliable and scalable power solutions. Peak Energy Technologies will provide the technical expertise for battery development, while GM brings its manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. The partnership signals a potential expansion of GM’s role in energy infrastructure, beyond its core automotive business. This pivot underscores the intersection of AI demand and energy storage, as data centers increasingly rely on stable power supplies. GM’s approach could set a precedent for other automakers looking to capitalize on the energy transition and AI-driven growth sectors.