Who builds Fords batteries?
Ford’s batteries are not built by a single supplier; the automaker relies on a mix of partners led by a U.S.-based joint venture with SK On to manufacture cells for its North American EVs, with additional cells supplied by LG Energy Solution and CATL for other regions and models.
As Ford pushes to electrify its lineup, its battery strategy has evolved into a diversified, multi-supplier approach. The company has pursued domestic production through a joint venture with SK On, while also tapping international partners to support its global markets. This structure aims to secure supply, scale production, and manage costs as demand for electric vehicles grows.
Key battery partners
The following overview distinguishes Ford’s core U.S. suppliers from its global partners to illustrate how the company sources cells and modules for its vehicles.
Core U.S. partners
- BlueOval SK (Ford–SK On joint venture) — a U.S.-based collaboration intended to design and manufacture battery cells for Ford’s North American EVs, including expansion plans to increase domestic cell production capacity and support Ford's growing lineup.
The BlueOval SK venture is central to Ford’s strategy to secure domestic battery supply and to scale its electric-vehicle production in the United States.
Global partners
- LG Energy Solution — a longtime supplier of cells and modules for several Ford models in North America and Europe, continuing to play a major role as Ford expands its EV portfolio.
- CATL — a key supplier for Ford's China-market vehicles and other regional programs, helping Ford diversify its battery sources outside the United States.
Global partners such as LGES and CATL help Ford diversify supply channels, access regional markets more efficiently, and mitigate reliance on any single supplier.
Geographic footprint and expansion plans
Ford aligns its battery sourcing with its manufacturing footprint, pursuing a strong U.S. presence through BlueOval SK while maintaining international partnerships to support markets outside North America.
- United States — BlueOval SK plants (in partnership with SK On) to supply North American Ford EVs with locally produced cells and modules.
- China and Asia-Pacific — CATL and LG Energy Solution supply batteries for Ford’s regional models and joint ventures in the region.
- Europe — LG Energy Solution and other partners support Ford’s electrified models across the European market, enabling localized sourcing.
The regional approach aims to optimize supply security, reduce lead times, and manage costs as Ford expands its EV lineup globally.
Summary
Ford builds its batteries through a diversified mix of suppliers: a core U.S. focus centered on the BlueOval SK joint venture with SK On, complemented by LG Energy Solution and CATL for international markets. This strategy supports Ford’s U.S. production ambitions and global electrification plans, aiming to secure reliable supply while scaling capacity for future EVs.
