Who does Ford get their EV batteries from?
As of 2024-25, Ford sources its electric-vehicle battery cells from a trio of major suppliers—LG Energy Solution, SK On (via the BlueOval joint venture), and CATL. The company is expanding U.S. cell production through its partnership with SK On to drive greater local sourcing for its growing lineup of BEVs.
Who supplies Ford's EV batteries?
Ford has built a diversified, globally distributed battery-sourcing strategy to support its expanding lineup of electric vehicles. The main suppliers today are:
- LG Energy Solution (LGES) — a long-time cell supplier for several Ford BEVs, including early versions of the Mustang Mach-E, and a key global supplier for multiple models and markets.
- SK On — Ford's partner in the BlueOval Battery Park/BlueOval SK joint venture, aimed at producing battery cells in North America for Ford’s U.S.-built BEVs such as the F-150 Lightning and future models.
- CATL — providing cells for Ford’s China-market vehicles and supporting regional expansion where CATL has capacity or strategic commitments.
Ford’s approach reflects a balance between diversifying risk, securing scale, and aligning with regional manufacturing footprints. While BOSK is meant to ramp U.S. cell production, external suppliers continue to play a crucial role across all regions to ensure steady BEV supply as Ford expands its electrified portfolio.
Market-by-market outlook
Because Ford operates across North America, China, and Europe, its battery sourcing moves with market needs and supplier capabilities. The following overview highlights how suppliers map to regions and models.
- North America — The BlueOval SK joint venture with SK On is a cornerstone for U.S.-built BEVs, with cells produced to support models like the F-150 Lightning and upcoming electric offerings. LGES remains a significant supplier for various models and trims in the region.
- China — CATL provides cells for Ford’s vehicles built for the Chinese market, aligning with Ford’s local manufacturing strategy in China.
- Europe — Ford draws on a mix of LGES cells and regional suppliers as needed to support European models, with the supplier mix adapting to model lineups and supply arrangements.
In short, Ford’s battery strategy hinges on a diversified global mix—led by LG Energy Solution, SK On through BlueOval SK, and CATL—paired with a growing emphasis on domestic production to support scale and resilience as its electric-vehicle plans mature.
Summary
Ford currently sources EV battery cells from LG Energy Solution, SK On (via the BlueOval SK joint venture), and CATL. The company is expanding U.S. cell production through its SK On partnership while maintaining a diversified supplier base to support its North American, Chinese, and European EV growth.
How much of Ford does China own?
Changan Ford
| Company type | Joint venture |
|---|---|
| Key people | He Xiaoqing (President and CEO) Yang Dayong (Executive Vice President) |
| Products | Automobiles |
| Owner | Changan Automobile (50%) Ford Motor Company (50%) |
| Number of employees | 10,000+ |
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 partner of Ford EV battery?
BlueOval SK is the joint venture between Ford Motor Company and SK On, a subsidiary of SK Innovation focused on EV battery production. BlueOval SK CEO Michael Adams said the start of production strengthens the joint venture's position in the EV battery market.
Who makes the EV batteries for Ford?
Ford makes its own EV batteries through a joint venture with SK On called BlueOval SK, which is already producing batteries at a plant in Kentucky. Additionally, Ford is building a new, wholly-owned battery plant in Michigan that will license and manufacture technology from the Chinese company CATL.
- BlueOval SK: This joint venture with SK On is Ford's primary battery-making operation for its current and future models.
- The company's first plant in Glendale, Kentucky, has started commercial production and its batteries power vehicles like the F-150 Lightning.
- Ford plans to expand production and may even sell excess batteries to other companies.
- Ford and CATL: Ford is also building a new, wholly-owned plant in Michigan that will produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.
- Ford is licensing the technology, including the manufacturing process and chemistry, from the Chinese company CATL.
- This plant is expected to open in 2026 and aims to help reduce costs for Ford's electric vehicles.
- Ford employees will be trained by CATL employees to operate the new facility.
