The Ford Mustang Mach-E will soon be offered with a new type of battery, which the firm claims will allow it to both increase production and make the machine “more affordable and accessible” for customers.
At present, the Mustang Mach-E SUV is offered with either a choice of 75.7kWh or 98.7kWh batteries that feature nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) elements. While those NCM batteries will continue to be offered to customers, Ford will now introduce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries as a second option.
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So how will customers choose between LFP and NCM batteries, especially for those who (understandably) aren't versed in intricate knowledge of the mysterious world of lithium ion battery chemistry? Well, Ford says the decision will depend on how drivers use their EVs.
Essentially, while they are both lithium ion batteries and offer similar absolute range, the different chemistries mean they are different in how they behave. NCM batteries, for example, have greater energy density (so can hold more charge relative to their weight).
But Ford says that its LFP batteries will tolerate more frequent and faster charging than NCM batteries, making them a better choice if you regularly stop at rapid chargers. An additional bonus of LFP batteries is that they use fewer high-demand materials that are higher in cost, which in turn makes them cheaper to produce.
Ford has yet to reveal when the LFP batteries will reach the UK, or what cars using them will cost. At present, the Mustang Mach E starts at £50,830.
Ford is making a major push to electrify its line-up. It recently announced it will invest billions in a new LFP battery plant in Michigan, USA, which will open in 2026. Ford’s LFP batteries will be used in a variety of EVs: as well as the Mustang Mach-E that will include the F-150 Lighting pick-up from 2024 onwards and a range of “affordable, next-generation Ford EV passenger vehicles” that are under development.
Ford recently announced substantial layoffs of its European workforce – including the loss of 1300 jobs in the UK – as part of a restructure that will shift more of its development to its home country.
Meanwhile, Ford will also shortly launch its second electric SUV for the European market – although it will actually be built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB bespoke electric platform.
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