Who makes the batteries for Ford?
Ford sources its electric-vehicle batteries from multiple partners, led by BlueOval SK (a Ford-SK On joint venture) in the United States, with additional cells from LG Energy Solution and CATL across different regions.
Overview of Ford's battery strategy
Ford has pursued a multi-supplier approach to support its growing EV lineup, including the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and E-Transit. The strategy is designed to localize production in the United States, meet content and incentive requirements, and reduce dependence on any single supplier as demand scales.
Key suppliers and what they provide:
- BlueOval SK (Ford-SK On) — a joint venture that will manufacture battery cells and modules for Ford in the United States; multi-site plants planned in Kentucky and Tennessee to support current and future EVs.
- LG Energy Solution — a long-standing supplier of battery cells for several Ford BEVs, including the Mustang Mach-E and E-Transit; cells sourced from LGES manufacturing sites around the world and integrated into Ford packs.
- CATL — a supplier for some European Ford EVs and future programs as Ford diversifies its battery sourcing across regions.
Concluding: Ford's multi-sourcing approach aims to balance price, supply reliability, and localization, while enabling a rapid expansion of its EV lineup.
Details by supplier
BlueOval SK (Ford-SK On)
BlueOval SK is the core U.S. battery initiative for Ford, formed as a joint venture with SK On. It is designed to supply high-energy battery cells and modules for Ford's EVs and to scale production with a multi-site footprint in the United States, supporting vehicles like the F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, and future models.
- Planned U.S. facilities with capacities intended to support growing EV output.
- Emphasis on local cell production to reduce dependence on imports and improve supply resilience.
- Part of Ford's broader strategy to build a domestic battery supply chain.
Concluding: The BlueOval SK partnership anchors Ford's U.S. battery sourcing and is central to its U.S. EV ramp.
LG Energy Solution
LG Energy Solution has been a long-time supplier for several Ford BEVs, providing battery cells and modules used in multiple models. The collaboration supports Ford's near-term EV production and expands capacity alongside Ford's U.S. manufacturing footprint.
- Cells supplied for multiple Ford BEVs, with manufacturing aligned to LGES facilities globally.
- Critical partner for near-term EV growth and diversification of the cell supply base.
Concluding: LG Energy Solution remains a key partner for Ford's current and near-future BEVs, complementing the U.S.-based BlueOval SK supply.
CATL
CATL has secured involvement in Ford's European EV programs and some future initiatives as Ford diversifies its global battery supply. This partnership helps Ford manage regional supply risk and cost in Europe and beyond.
- European-focused battery supply to support Ford’s EVs in the region.
- Part of Ford's broader strategy to diversify cell suppliers across markets.
Concluding: CATL’s participation illustrates Ford's global approach to securing battery cells across markets.
Summary
Ford's battery strategy centers on diversification and localization. The company relies on BlueOval SK for U.S.-based cell production, supplemented by LG Energy Solution for several BEVs and CATL for European programs. This multi-sourcing approach helps Ford scale its electric-vehicle lineup, manage price, and reduce supply risk as it accelerates EV adoption.
Notes on sources and timing
For the most accurate, up-to-date specifics on plant locations, capacities, and model assignments, refer to Ford's investor materials and major announcements from 2021–2024, including the BlueOval SK joint venture updates and partnerships with LG Energy Solution and CATL.
