United Auto Workers (UAW) members working at Ultium Cells’ EV battery plant in Lordstown, OH, have ratified a landmark contract, setting a new standard in the EV industry. The agreement, approved by 98% of UAW Local 1112 members, promises substantial wage increases, bonuses and enhanced health and safety measures for the workers producing EV batteries for General Motors vehicles.
The contract, which was overwhelmingly supported over the weekend of June 15-16, will see Ultium production workers’ hourly wages rise to $35 by October 2027 -- a 112% increase from their initial $16.50 per hour when the plant opened in 2021. This historic agreement also includes a 30% raise over three years, an immediate $3,000 bonus, and the appointment of four full-time union health and safety representatives, along with a full-time union industrial hygienist.
“It enables me to just go ahead and move forward in life rather than living from paycheck to paycheck,” said Ultium worker Donald Bevly.
“This is setting a precedent that can be built on,” said Ultium worker Chris Wyatt. “This is a guideline that every other EV plant can follow through with.”
The UAW highlighted the transformative nature of this contract in a new video, featuring testimonials from the Ultium workforce, and emphasized the broader implications for the EV sector. “The benefits are just the best benefits I’ve had in my life,” said worker Lori Lovitz. “Paid hospitalization, holiday pay. I’ve never had this many paid holidays. Job security.”
The Ultium plant in Spring Hill, TN, is set to begin operations soon, with more battery plants expected to follow nationwide. This contract should influence labor agreements across the burgeoning EV industry, setting a benchmark for wages, benefits and worker protections.
