MARSHALL, Mich. – Ford has announced a $3.5 billion investment to build America’s first automaker-backed LFP battery plant, BlueOval Battery Park Michigan. This new plant will offer customers a second battery technology within Ford’s EV lineup, and initially employ 2,500 people when production begins in 2026. Ford will also have the option to expand its battery capacity at its Marshall, Michigan plant, which will be part of a wholly-owned Ford subsidiary.
This latest investment marks a $17.6 billion investment in electric vehicle and battery production in the United States since 2019, as part of Ford’s commitment to investing over $50 billion in electric vehicles globally through 2026. By 2024, the investments will lead to over 18,000 direct jobs in Michigan, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Missouri, as well as more than 100,000 indirect jobs.
The new battery production facility in Michigan will add approximately 35 gigawatt hours per year of new battery capacity for Ford in the US initially, which is capable of powering approximately 400,000 future Ford EVs. Ford plans to introduce LFP batteries on Mustang Mach-E this year and F-150 Lightning in 2024 to increase production capacity.
Diversifying and localizing Ford’s battery supply chain in the countries where it builds EVs will improve availability and affordability for customers while strengthening consumer demand. Offering LFP as a second battery chemistry allows Ford customers to choose an electric vehicle with unique battery performance characteristics most aligned with their needs. LFP batteries are more durable and tolerate more frequent and faster charging while using fewer high-demand, high-cost materials.
Ford’s commitment to American manufacturing is reflected in this $3.5 billion investment that will create 2,500 good-paying jobs in Marshall. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has applauded Ford’s investment, saying it will build on Michigan’s economic momentum and create a more sustainable EV supply chain that upholds Ford’s commitments to sustainability and human rights.
Ford’s new agreement with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) will allow Ford’s wholly owned subsidiary to manufacture the battery cells using LFP battery cell knowledge and services provided by CATL. This new agreement adds to Ford’s existing battery capacity and available battery technology made possible through a series of key collaborations, including with SK On and LG Energy Solution (LGES).
Finally, Ford is ensuring that 245 acres at the southern edge of the site are placed into a conservation easement. This land, along the Kalamazoo River, will be preserved for generations to come and protected against future industrial development. Ford will work with government officials and community leaders to preserve natural resources and recreation near the facility, as part of its commitment to being a good neighbor.
