What battery is Ford using?

Ford relies on a multi-source approach for its electric-vehicle batteries, rather than a single standardized cell. The company is pursuing U.S.-based production of 4680-format cells through a BlueOval joint venture with SK On, while continuing to source cells from LG Energy Solution and CATL depending on the model and market.

How Ford is sourcing and producing its EV batteries

Ford's strategy centers on diversification and localization. The aim is to secure a resilient supply chain for its growing EV lineup—Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, E-Transit, and future models—while reducing exposure to any one supplier or region. The company has formed BlueOval SK with SK On to build U.S.-made 4680 cells and other facilities to supply Ford's needs in North America. Beyond this, Ford buys cells from LG Energy Solution for several vehicles and has used CATL in certain markets, notably in China.

Key partnerships and suppliers shaping Ford's current battery supply for its EVs:

• BlueOval SK: a joint venture with SK On to manufacture 4680 cylindrical cells in the United States.


• LG Energy Solution: a major supplier of cells for multiple Ford vehicles in the U.S. and abroad.


• CATL: supplies cells for specific markets, notably in China and some regional deployments.

These arrangements illustrate Ford's multi-source approach, combining domestic battery-cell production with external supplier packs to cover the current and near-future EV lineup.

What this means for Ford's vehicles today

It means the exact chemistry and cell format can vary by model and region, and Ford does not publish a single standard for all its EVs. The Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and other upcoming models may derive their packs from different suppliers depending on production year and market, with a clear-eyed emphasis on expanding domestic cell production through BlueOval SK in the years ahead.

Looking ahead for consumers

Ford intends to scale up 4680-cell production in the United States through its BOSK partnership while continuing to diversify its supplier base. For buyers, this could translate to broader EV availability, potential price competitiveness, and updates to range and charging capabilities as new cell technologies come online.

Summary

Ford's battery strategy is characterized by diversification and domesticization. By combining BlueOval SK's U.S.-made 4680 cells with ongoing sourcing from LG Energy Solution and CATL, Ford aims to secure a resilient, scalable supply for its expanding lineup. The exact battery chemistry varies by model and market, reflecting both current supplier arrangements and planned future upgrades as new cells enter production.

What two battery chemistries is Ford using?

Ford is the first automaker to commit to building both NCM and LFP batteries in the United States.

What is the new battery technology for Ford?

At the heart of Ford's battery revolution are lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. Unlike traditional nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) batteries, LFP batteries utilize more affordable and readily available materials. This translates to lower production costs without compromising on performance or safety.

What brand of battery does Ford use?

Ford uses various batteries depending on the vehicle's needs, including traditional lead-acid, Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) for start-stop technology, and high-voltage lithium-ion for its hybrid and electric vehicles. For replacements, Ford recommends Motorcraft® batteries, while other brands like Optima, NAPA, and DieHard are also popular options for specific models. 
12-volt batteries 

• Traditional/Flooded Lead-Acid: Used in many standard vehicles, suitable for models without advanced start-stop technology. 
• Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM): The standard for vehicles with start-stop technology and other high-demand electrical features, as they handle more charge cycles and are more durable. 
• Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB): An improved type of flooded battery that is also used in some vehicles with start-stop technology. 

High-voltage batteries 

• Lithium-ion: Used in all-electric and hybrid vehicles. 
• Specifics: Ford's F-150 Lightning, for example, uses high-nickel NCM battery technology supplied by companies like SK Innovation, as noted by Ford. 

Other considerations

• Model-specific needs: The correct battery depends on factors like engine size, the vehicle's electrical system, and its specific technology. 
• Replacement options: While Motorcraft is the OEM-recommended option, other brands are available. For example, Chula Vista Ford notes Optima, Motorcraft, and NAPA for F-150 trucks. 
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is an important specification, especially for trucks and SUVs, to ensure reliable engine starts in cold weather. 
• Group size: This refers to the physical dimensions of the battery, which must match the vehicle's battery tray. 

Who is the battery supplier for Ford?

Ford uses several companies for its batteries, including BlueOval SK (a joint venture with SK On) for lithium-ion batteries, CATL for the technology in its U.S.-made lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, and Johnson Controls for its Motorcraft brand batteries for traditional vehicles. 
Electric vehicle (EV) batteries 

• BlueOval SK: A joint venture between Ford and South Korea's SK On. It develops and manufactures lithium-ion batteries for future Ford and Lincoln EVs. 
• CATL: Ford licenses technology from the Chinese company CATL to produce LFP batteries at its wholly-owned battery plant in Marshall, Michigan. 
• LG Energy Solution: Another South Korean battery manufacturer that partners with Ford, based on information from the BlueOval SK JV and the 2023 battery plant details. 

Traditional vehicle batteries

• Johnson Controls: Makes the Motorcraft brand batteries, which are the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries for Ford vehicles. 
• Omnicraft: This brand offers aftermarket batteries manufactured in Europe and India using flooded lead-acid technology for a wide range of vehicles.