Ford launches new lithium-iron phosphate batteries
The American manufacturer Ford has announced its intention to start producing new lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to reduce its dependence on nickel and cobalt and thus increase its production capacity for electric models.
This solution, also recommended by Tesla, will first be introduced in the production of the Mustang Mach-E this year. The F-150 Lightning electric van will also benefit from it from 2024.
Ford claims that this new generation of LFP batteries is more durable, more tolerant of frequent recharging and of high recharging powers than the nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries currently employed. However, the batteries are less efficient in cold weather and can store less energy than earlier batteries, which limits range.
The blue oval brand suggests that the use of this type of battery will be done in concert with the batteries currently used, which probably suggests that it will be offered on less expensive versions.
