Where does Ford get their batteries for the Lightning?
Ford’s F-150 Lightning relies on high‑voltage battery packs sourced primarily from SK On through Ford’s BlueOval SK joint venture, with plans to expand North American cell production as part of its broader EV push. The automaker also uses a multi‑supplier strategy for its broader electric‑vehicle lineup, including other models that may rely on different cell partners.
Primary battery supplier for the F-150 Lightning
Key facts about who supplies the Lightning’s battery cells and how that fits into Ford’s strategy are summarized below.
- SK On, via the Ford‑SK On BlueOval SK joint venture, is the primary supplier of the Lightning’s high‑voltage battery packs for North American production.
This arrangement centers the Lightning’s battery supply with a single major partner while Ford continues to pursue diversification and scale across its EV lineup.
BlueOval SK and North American battery production
BlueOval SK is Ford’s strategic North American battery‑production initiative with SK On. It is designed to build and supply cells for Ford’s BEVs in the United States, including the F‑150 Lightning, with plans for U.S. plants to support domestic manufacturing.
- BlueOval SK is a joint venture between Ford and SK On tasked with producing and supplying battery cells in North America for Ford’s electric vehicles.
- The venture envisions U.S.‑based battery plants (commonly discussed locations include Kentucky and Tennessee) to supply Ford’s EV lineup, reducing reliance on foreign cell imports and bolstering domestic manufacturing.
- The strategy aims to improve supply security, pricing stability, and vehicle availability for Ford’s growing battery‑entitlement portfolio.
These developments are central to Ford’s effort to localize battery production in North America and to build a scalable supply chain for its electrified future.
What this means for F‑150 Lightning customers
For buyers, the arrangement promises more predictable battery supply, potential benefits from local production, and closer alignment between vehicle production and battery availability. It also signals Ford’s commitment to expanding domestic manufacturing capacity to support ongoing BEV growth.
Summary
In short, the Ford F‑150 Lightning’s battery packs come mainly from SK On through the BlueOval SK joint venture, which is Ford’s cornerstone plan to produce cells in North America. This approach is paired with Ford’s broader strategy of diversifying cell sources for its expanding EV lineup and building out domestic battery manufacturing infrastructure to support U.S.‑built electrified vehicles.
Who makes Ford Lightning batteries?
SK On Co.
SK On Co., the world's fifth-largest battery maker, on Monday resumed operations of the cell production line for Ford Motor Co.'s electric pickup F-150 Lightning, easing concerns over the product quality of the South Korean company.
Who is Ford's EV battery supplier?
Ford's joint venture with the South Korean battery maker SK On is officially pumping out American-made EV batteries. On Tuesday, BlueOval SK announced that it kicked off commercial battery production at its first plant, located in Glendale, Kentucky.
Is Ford cancelling the lightning?
No, the F-150 Lightning has not been officially discontinued, but production has been temporarily halted due to an aluminum shortage caused by a fire at a key supplier. Ford is reallocating the limited aluminum supply to its more profitable gas and hybrid F-150 models. There are also reports that Ford is internally discussing scrapping the Lightning permanently, but the company has not confirmed this speculation.
This video discusses the impact of the aluminum shortage on Ford's production: 1mTrucked Up EVsYouTube · Oct 13, 2025
Current status
- Temporary halt: Production of the F-150 Lightning has been paused since October 2025 due to an aluminum supply issue caused by a fire at a Novelis factory.
- Focus on gas and hybrids: Ford is prioritizing its more profitable gas and hybrid F-150 trucks, diverting resources to increase their production.
Future uncertainty
- Permanent discontinuation debated: Reports from late 2025 suggest that Ford is considering permanently scrapping the F-150 Lightning due to disappointing sales and high costs.
- Potential for a next-generation model: Ford is reportedly working on a new electric truck platform (codenamed "T3") which may replace the current Lightning in 2028, though a decision has not been made yet.
How much does a Ford Lightning battery cost?
between $15,000 and $30,000
Average Price of an F-150 Lightning Replacement Battery
Current estimates place the cost anywhere between $15,000 and $30,000, depending on the battery pack and labor fees. This range reflects the sophisticated lithium-ion technology, advanced cooling systems, and high energy capacity that power the Lightning.
