Ford Eyes New Battery Technology

March 3rd, 2023 by

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Ford will be making use of a new form of battery technology called lithium iron phosphate cells. This new cell technology allows automakers like Ford to take advantage of a more cost-effective battery. The Blue Oval currently utilizes nickel manganese cobalt battery cells. These cells comprise EVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Ford F-150 Lightning. With its two EVs Ford has made a reputation for itself as a reputable EV maker. Both the Mach-E and Lightning offer impressive capability and performance. Ford is looking to increase the production of both EVs and also develop new ones like the Ford Ranger Lightning. To do this, the Blue Oval will take advantage of lithium iron phosphate cells which can be charged more frequently. We’ll discuss these new battery cells and see how Ford plans to incorporate them into its EV lineup. 

Ford Eyes New Battery Technology

Ford will be making use of new battery technology in its EVs like the all-electric F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. Since their launch, both the Lightning and Mach-E have received immense praise for their capability and versatility. Ford is aiming to increase the production of its EVs. To make production more cost-effective, the Blue Oval is eyeing lithium iron phosphate cells (LFP). Currently, the automaker utilizes battery cells called nickel manganese cobalt (NMC). A key difference between LFP and NMC cells lies in their strength and durability.

Ford and other automakers have been using nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery cells for some time now. The benefit of NMC cells is that they offer a high energy density and provide quick recharge times. One problem with them however is that they are expensive to produce. These cells are also sensitive to high states of charge. Lithium iron phosphate cells (LFP) have stronger durability and can handle more charge cycles. They can also accept fast charging better than NMC cells. This means they are better suited for daily commuting and commercial vehicles. About the new LFP cells, Ford CEO Jim Farley said, 

“Ford’s electric vehicle line-up has generated huge demand. We’re delivering on our commitments as we scale LFP and NCM batteries and thousands, and soon millions, of customers will begin to reap the benefits of Ford EVs with cutting-edge, durable battery technologies that are growing more affordable over time,” said Jim Farley.

Ford will incorporate both LFP and NMC battery cells into its EVs. One of the first EVs to receive the cells will be the Mustang Mach-E. The F-150 Lightning will receive them later near the end of 2024. Depending on the trim, the EV will have different battery cells. Trims that are designed with longer ranges and higher performance in mind will use NMC cells. Base trims will use LFP cells. With the new battery cells, Ford will be able to produce more EVs which will lead to lower costs for consumers.

 

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Photo Credit: Ford

Posted in Ford