Ford Unveils Game-Changing LMR Battery Tech Aiming for Cheaper, Longer-Range EVs

In a bold leap toward the future of electric vehicles (EVs), Ford Motor Company has announced a breakthrough in battery technology that could revolutionize the EV market by the end of the decade. The American auto giant revealed the development of a new Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) battery chemistry — a next-generation solution designed to cut costs, increase range, and eliminate reliance on expensive materials like nickel and cobalt.

 

A New Era for Ford EVs

Ford’s LMR battery initiative is part of its broader electrification strategy, which includes the ramp-up of battery production at facilities like Ion Park in Romulus, Michigan. According to Charles Poon, Ford’s Director of Electrified Propulsion Engineering, the company has already begun producing second-generation LMR cells.

“Our LMR chemistry delivers high energy density while eliminating the cost and supply chain challenges posed by nickel and cobalt,” said Poon.

The goal? Bring EVs to more people by drastically reducing battery costs and improving accessibility without compromising on performance or safety.

 

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What Makes LMR Batteries Different?

Unlike traditional EV batteries that rely heavily on nickel and cobalt, LMR batteries use manganese, which is more abundant and cost-effective. The benefits include:

 

•  Increased range per charge

•  Lower production costs

•  Improved thermal stability and safety

•  Greater sustainability in the supply chain

 

While LMR batteries have been studied for decades, their commercial rollout was limited due to performance setbacks like voltage fade. Ford claims its new advancements overcome these issues — though full technical specs haven’t yet been released.

 

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Market Impact and What Comes Next

This innovation could mark a major shift in EV affordability and adoption. Ford aims to integrate these LMR batteries across its growing EV lineup, including future generations of the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and other upcoming models.

The automaker’s commitment to electrification is further reflected in its $11.4 billion investment into BlueOval City — a state-of-the-art EV and battery manufacturing hub in Tennessee.

As the EV race accelerates, Ford’s latest breakthrough could be the edge it needs to compete with Tesla, GM, and international automakers. If successful, LMR batteries may reshape the cost structure of the entire EV industry.

Stay tuned — the electric future is charging up faster than ever.