Does the Ford Lightning use an LFP battery?

The Ford F-150 Lightning is not publicly confirmed to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. Ford has not stated that Lightning packs employ LFP chemistry, and current disclosures describe high-energy lithium-ion cells from multiple suppliers without an explicit LFP designation. Ford has signaled a broader move toward LFP in other models, but not specifically for the Lightning.

Understanding this question requires a quick look at battery chemistry basics and Ford’s published details. LFP (lithium iron phosphate) is a common alternative to nickel-rich chemistries because it can lower cost and improve thermal stability, albeit with generally lower energy density. Automakers weigh chemistry choices against cost, range, and performance targets. In Ford’s case, the Lightning’s public specifications emphasize battery size and range, while the chemistry itself has not been formally disclosed for the truck.

What is LFP and why it matters

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is a type of lithium-ion battery chemistry that uses iron phosphate for the cathode. It typically offers lower energy density than nickel-based chemistries but can deliver cost advantages, better thermal stability, and potentially longer cycle life in certain conditions. LFP has gained traction for value-focused EVs and for models where cost control is a priority. Ford has publicly discussed expanding LFP usage across its EV lineup in the coming years, though specifics about the Lightning remain unconfirmed.

Ford's Lightning battery strategy and current status

The F-150 Lightning is offered with two battery sizes: a 98 kWh standard-range pack and a 131 kWh extended-range pack, delivering EPA-estimated ranges around the low 200s to about 320 miles depending on configuration. Ford has not publicly disclosed the exact chemistry of these packs, and public documentation does not confirm LFP as the battery type for the Lightning. Battery cells for Ford’s EVs have come from multiple large suppliers, including major Asia-based firms, but the company has not labeled Lightning chemistry as LFP in its official materials.

Industry context

Across the broader EV market, LFP usage is expanding in some models to reduce cost and improve supply flexibility. Automakers like Tesla and others have deployed LFP in certain variants, while Ford has indicated strategic interest in LFP for future products. The Lightning, however, remains not officially categorized as LFP in Ford’s public disclosures as of now.

What to watch next

The following developments could clarify whether the Lightning will ever adopt LFP chemistry or remain with nickel-based cells. Track any official Ford announcements or investor communications that specify battery chemistry for the Lightning or for refreshes of its battery lineup:

• Official confirmation of battery chemistry for the F-150 Lightning, including any LFP adoption.


• Details on future Lightning refreshes or new battery options and their cell suppliers.


• Ford’s broader LFP strategy across its EV lineup and any model-by-model disclosures.


• Public demonstrations or disclosures about cost-per-kWh and range targets tied to specific chemistries.

These items will determine whether Ford extends LFP use to the Lightning in the coming years or keeps the truck on a different chemistry trajectory.

Summary: At present, there is no official confirmation that the Ford F-150 Lightning uses LFP chemistry. Ford has signaled broader LFP adoption for some models, but the Lightning’s battery chemistry remains undisclosed in public materials. As Ford continues to adjust its EV strategy, future announcements could clarify whether LFP becomes part of the Lightning’s battery family.

Which EV car has an LFP battery?

Many EVs now use LFP batteries, including certain Tesla Model 3 and Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Rivian R1T/R1S standard-range versions, and the upcoming Chevrolet Bolt. Carmakers are adopting LFP batteries for their safety, longer lifespan, lower cost, and environmental benefits, as they avoid using cobalt and nickel.
 
Examples of EVs with LFP batteries

• Tesla: Standard-range versions of the Model 3 and Model Y use LFP batteries. 
• Ford: The base, standard-range Mustang Mach-E uses LFP batteries, say MSN and Battery Technology. 
• Rivian: The standard-range R1T and R1S models have an LFP battery option, and the Rivian Commercial Van (RCV) is also equipped with one, notes MSN and this YouTube video. 
• Chevrolet: The re-introduced Chevrolet Bolt will feature an LFP battery pack, according to this YouTube video and MSN. 
• BYD: All BYD models use LFP batteries, reports Electrifying.com and Battery Technology. 
• Other models: The MG4, Volvo EX30, Dacia Spring, and Citroen e-C3 are other examples of EVs that use LFP batteries, according to Electrifying.com. 

Why EV makers are using LFP batteries

• Safety: LFP batteries are more thermally stable, reducing the risk of thermal runaway, notes Midtronics and this YouTube video.
• Cost: They are more affordable to produce than other chemistries, allowing for lower-priced EVs, say Battery Technology and PCMag [3, 

What is the downside of an LFP battery?

The main downsides of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries are lower energy density, which can make them bulkier, and poorer performance in cold temperatures. They can also have a higher initial cost, a lower nominal voltage per cell, and a slower discharge rate compared to some other lithium-ion batteries. 
Energy density and size

• Lower energy density: LFP batteries store less energy per unit of weight or volume compared to other lithium-ion chemistries like NMC. 
• Larger size: Because of their lower energy density, a battery with the same capacity will be physically larger and heavier, making them less suitable for applications where space and weight are critical, such as in thin laptops or small devices. 

Performance and temperature

• Poor cold-weather performance: LFP batteries are less efficient in freezing temperatures, leading to reduced capacity and charge acceptance. They may require more energy for conditioning, which further reduces usable range in cold climates. 
• Slower discharge rate: LFP batteries may have a slower discharge rate, which is not ideal for high-power applications that require rapid power delivery. 
• Voltage: The nominal voltage of an LFP cell is lower than some other lithium-ion types, which can complicate battery pack design for high-voltage systems. 

Cost and other considerations

• Higher initial cost: While prices are decreasing, the initial manufacturing cost of LFP batteries can still be higher than some alternatives, although their longevity can result in a lower total cost of ownership over time. 
• Inaccurate state of charge: The flat discharge curve of LFP batteries can make it difficult for the battery management system to accurately estimate the state of charge, impacting range predictions. 

Does the Ford Lightning use LFP batteries?

Testing Affordable Batteries on Base Trims
As mentioned, as the standard-range option, the company will begin installing lithium iron phosphate batteries in the Select trim of the Mach-E SUV in spring 2023. The lower-cost and range battery will go to the XLT trim of the Ford F-150 Lightning pickup truck in 2024.

What kind of battery is in the Ford Lightning?

The Ford F-150 Lightning uses lithium-ion batteries, with the specific chemistry depending on the model year and trim. Standard range models can use either a Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) or Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, while extended-range models use NCM batteries. Older models (pre-2024) and extended-range versions use NCM, while some 2024 and newer standard-range models use LFP for lower cost and durability.
 
Battery types by model

• Extended-Range: Uses Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) chemistry. 
• Standard-Range:
  • Older models and some 2023.5+ models use NCM. 
  • Starting with the 2024 model year, some standard-range models use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry for a lower-cost option. 

How to confirm your battery type

• Check the 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• If the VIN's 8th digit is a 4 or 5, it is an LFP battery.
• If the VIN's 8th digit is any other letter or number, it is a NCM battery.