Ford has begun producing lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells at its BlueOval Battery Park Michigan facility in Marshall, marking the first U.S. manufacture of LFP cells for mainstream consumer electric vehicles. The move advances the automaker’s strategy to lower EV costs, strengthen domestic supply chains and improve competitiveness against lower-priced imports.
The Michigan plant, which currently employs more than 500 workers, has completed initial “C-sample” cells used to qualify manufacturing equipment and is now producing “D-sample” cells made with production-intent materials for testing and validation. Ford expects to start manufacturing launch-ready LFP cells before the end of 2026.
These cells will power the company’s new Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform, beginning with a midsize electric pickup scheduled for 2027. Ford licensed LFP technology from a leading global battery supplier, retaining full ownership and operational control of the facility while leveraging the supplier’s expertise in cell design and manufacturing through on-site training.
LFP chemistry eliminates the need for nickel and cobalt, reducing raw-material costs and simplifying the supply chain. Ford executives say the chemistry’s stability and cost advantages will help deliver more affordable EVs without compromising performance or reliability.
To support ramp-up, Ford plans to double the plant’s workforce. The company aims to employ 800 people by the end of 2024, eventually expanding to 1,700 employees. To date, the hiring process has attracted more than 11,500 applications for positions at the battery park.
By bringing LFP cell production onshore, Ford seeks to enhance supply-chain resilience and long-term cost control as it scales its EV lineup. The BlueOval Battery Park Michigan site is a key element in Ford’s broader plan to invest in domestic battery manufacturing and reduce reliance on overseas suppliers.
Source: CBT News
