Who is Fords battery partner?

Ford's battery partner is SK On, through the BlueOval SK joint venture, which aims to build U.S.-based battery cell production for Ford's electric vehicles.

The question centers on who supplies the batteries for Ford's growing lineup of electric vehicles and how the collaboration with SK On fits into Ford's broader electrification strategy. This article outlines the partnership, its scope, and what it means for Ford's EV rollout.

The BlueOval SK Relationship

BlueOval SK (BOSK) is a joint venture formed by Ford Motor Company and SK On to develop and manufacture battery cells in the United States for Ford’s electric vehicles. The arrangement is designed to secure domestic cell supply and support Ford's expanding EV portfolio.

Formation and scope

BlueOval SK was established to co-develop and produce battery cells in the U.S., with the aim of providing Ford with a stable, domestic supply chain for its EVs. The venture focuses on creating scalable, localized production capacity to support Ford's current and future electric models.

Key milestones and components of the partnership include plans for U.S. gigafactory facilities and joint development efforts between Ford and SK On to advance battery technology and manufacturing capabilities for Ford's EV lineup.

• Formation of the BlueOval SK joint venture between Ford and SK On to co-develop and produce battery cells in the United States.


• Plans to establish U.S. battery production sites in Kentucky and Tennessee to support Ford’s EVs.


• A strategic emphasis on domestic supply, long-term battery development, and scalable production capacity.


• Integration with Ford's broader electrification goals, including the expansion of electric trucks, SUVs, and passenger EVs.

These milestones illustrate the core framework of Ford's battery strategy with SK On and the resulting U.S.-based manufacturing footprint.

Why the partnership matters

The collaboration with SK On is central to Ford's ability to scale production of electric vehicles by ensuring a predictable, local supply of battery cells. The joint venture aims to reduce dependence on foreign cell imports, support U.S. jobs, and help Ford meet regulatory and market demands for EVs in the coming years.

• Improved supply security amid global battery shortages and competition.


• Potential cost advantages from localized production and vertically integrated planning.


• Job creation and economic investment in Kentucky, Tennessee, and surrounding regions.


• Capacity to support Ford's expanding EV lineup, including trucks, SUVs, and future passenger EVs.

In summary, SK On’s role through BlueOval SK is a cornerstone of Ford’s strategy to accelerate electrification, secure battery supplies, and expand domestic manufacturing.

Broader context and current status

As of 2024–2025, Ford’s primary battery partner for its U.S.-made electric vehicles is SK On via the BlueOval SK venture. Ford has explored additional supplier relationships to diversify its battery supply, but SK On remains the main partner driving the core U.S. battery manufacturing plan.

Summary: Ford has aligned with SK On to form BlueOval SK, a strategic partnership intended to build U.S. battery cell production for Ford’s EVs, with planned plants in Kentucky and Tennessee. This collaboration underpins Ford's effort to scale EV production, secure domestic supply, and support its long-term electrification goals.

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. 

What battery brand 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. 

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.

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.