Ford Motor Co. and South Korea's SK Innovation dissolved their American battery manufacturing partnership. They opted to split ownership of the U.S. facilities instead of joint operation. This move significantly changes the operational strategy for Ford's domestic electric vehicle supply chain.
SK Innovation assumes sole ownership and control of the BlueOval SK plant in Tennessee, a key facility for battery cell production. Ford takes independent control and management of the corresponding battery factory in Kentucky.
The separation allows both companies to pursue distinct strategic priorities and potentially accelerate battery technology innovation. However, the split may introduce new logistical complexities. It also risks potential variations in battery pack delivery schedules for Ford's vehicle assembly plants.