‘Build like Tesla’
Ford will introduce new LFP batteries in the Mustang Mach-E this year. The new batteries should make the car more affordable, although there are no figures yet to substantiate that promise.
LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries contain less rare earth metals and have a somewhat different user manual than the more common NCM batteries. Tesla also uses ‘LFP’ in the simplest versions of the Model 3 and Model Y and there it would be possible to charge to 100 percent without excessive battery wear, where this is not recommended with other battery types.
At Ford, the previously announced LFP batteries are mainly about cost savings, according to the brand also for the customer. “Ford’s current range of electric vehicles has generated tremendous demand. We keep our promises with the LFP and NCM batteries. With these advanced, long-lasting batteries, which become cheaper over time as production increases, thousands and soon millions of customers will enjoy the benefits of electric Fords,” said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO.
Ford’s only passenger car EV in Europe, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, should be available with an LFP battery this year. Given Ford’s statements, we suspect that this means the arrival of a new entry-level version, which can certainly do no harm compared to the European and American (Tesla) competition. With a starting price of about 58 mille, the Mustang is currently quite expensive compared to cars such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Volkswagens ID4 and ID5 and of course the Tesla Model Y. In the US there will also soon be F-150 Lightning with LFP battery available.
How seriously Ford takes this whole LFP project is reflected in the investments the brand is making. Ford is investing no less than $ 3.5 billion in a plant in Michigan that will focus entirely on the production of LFP batteries. This factory should open in 2026.
More profit
Although not stated in so many words, it seems that these LFP plans are part of Ford’s battle to make (more) profit on EVs. For the time being, it appears to be difficult to market the electric cars in a favorable way for Ford. Automotive News therefore reports that the brand is committed to streamlining the production process, among other things. The number of parts must be reduced, just like the ‘great example’ Tesla, which has been trying successfully for years. Another way to cut costs would be to streamline the cars themselves. That sounds a bit strange, but means that fewer batteries are needed to achieve a comparable range.
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– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl