Ford’s EV and Hybrid Strategy Update
Ford is making moves to adapt to the changing automotive market. The company is adjusting the launch timing for some electric vehicles while simultaneously increasing its commitment to hybrid technology.
Ford continues to invest in a diverse range of electric vehicle programs and expand its hybrid offerings.
Ford’s plans involve a wider selection of hybrid electric vehicles. By the end of this decade, the company aims to offer hybrid powertrains throughout its entire Ford Blue lineup across North America.
Ford experienced significant growth in the first quarter of 2024, with EV sales up 86% and hybrid sales increasing 42% compared to the previous year.
Jim Farley, Ford’s president and CEO, stated that the company is committed to scaling profitable EV operations, making smart capital choices, and introducing the right mix of gas, hybrid, and fully electric vehicles at the right time.
Oakville Assembly Plant Adjustment
The transformation of the Oakville Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, is set to begin in the second quarter of the year. The plant is being converted from a gas vehicle assembly plant to an EV manufacturing facility.
Ford is adjusting the launch of its all-new three-row electric vehicles at the Oakville plant, moving the target to 2027 from the previously planned 2025.
This adjustment provides additional time for the three-row EV market to develop further. It also allows Ford to take advantage of future advancements in battery technology.
Ford emphasizes its dedication to its Canadian workforce and has pledged to collaborate with Unifor to alleviate the impact of the launch delay on its employees.
BlueOval City Progress
Construction of the BlueOval City complex, including the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center assembly plant, is proceeding as planned.
BlueOval City is Ford’s advanced auto production complex and includes the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center assembly plant.
Equipment installation is underway, including nearly 4,000 tons of stamping equipment for the next-generation electric truck.
Ford plans to begin delivering the new electric truck in 2026, gradually increasing production. The Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center will be Ford’s first Industry 4.0 plant, combining automation and connectivity.
Ohio Assembly Plant Expansion
Ford is expanding its Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake to manufacture an all-new electric commercial vehicle for Ford Pro customers. The expansion is progressing, with half of the structural steel in place and interior work underway.
Ohio Assembly Plant’s expansion includes an all-new electric commercial vehicle for Ford Pro customers.
Tool installation at the Ohio Assembly Plant is expected to begin in spring 2025.
Future EV Development
A special team in California is working on a flexible EV platform. This platform is designed to be smaller, more affordable, and capable of supporting multiple vehicles at high production volumes.
Construction continues at BlueOval Battery Park Michigan and the BlueOval SK joint venture battery plants in Tennessee and Kentucky.
BlueOval Battery Park Michigan is under construction.
These actions support a plan for a thriving and profitable EV business, providing customers with a variety of vehicle options.
