Ford Shores Up Hybrid and EV Supply Chain

If you’ve struggled to find an eco-friendly new vehicle, you’re in luck. Ford is making moves to increase the supply chain for Ford hybrids and electric vehicles. We are taking a closer look at Woodhouse Ford of Omaha.

Nickel Processing Plant in Indonesia

Ford is working with PT Vale Indonesia and China’s Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt on a $4.5 billion nickel processing plant in Indonesia. This will be Ford’s first investment in the Southeast Asian country. Indonesia has been trying to develop downstream industries for nickel since they have the world’s largest nickel reserves and hope to produce batteries and electric vehicles (EVs).

Plant Production

The high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) plant, expected to begin operation in 2026, will be located in Pomalaa in Southeast Sulawesi. It is expected to produce over 130,000 tons per year of mixed hydroxide precipitate, which is a material extracted from nickel ore to use in EV batteries.

Ford Joins in Hopes of Increasing Quality and Reducing EV Costs

Ford joins automakers worldwide looking for raw materials used in producing EV batteries. The battery accounts for around 40 percent of a vehicle’s sticker price. This way, Ford can cut costs to help make electric cars more affordable for everyone.

Plus, Ford can have a hand in ensuring the quality of EV batteries. “Ford can help ensure that the nickel that we use in electric vehicle batteries is mined, produced within the same ESG standards as part of our business around the world,” stated Christopher Smith, Ford’s chief government affairs officer.

Test-Drive an Efficient Ford Vehicle Today

Do you want to learn more about the new Ford hybrid and electric vehicles? We encourage you to visit us at Woodhouse Ford of Omaha to chat with our team today!