MARSHALL, Mich. – Ford Motor Company’s ambitious BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall, Michigan, has reached a major milestone as the automaker continues developing the state-of-the-art facility. The battery park, expected to be operational by early 2026, represents a key component of Ford’s push toward electric vehicle (EV) production and battery innovation.

Construction on the massive project began in mid-2023 on farmland near West Michigan Avenue, transforming the once-rural landscape into what will be one of the most advanced battery manufacturing hubs in the country.

Significant Construction Progress

The project saw steady progress throughout 2023, with a major step forward in August when steel beams were erected for the facility’s two primary buildings. In December, Ford reached another key milestone by placing the final steel beam for the structures, marking a major phase in the construction timeline.

"Congratulations to everyone who helped to achieve this important milestone,” said Scott Davis, CEO of BlueOval Battery Michigan, LLC. “This is a significant step that keeps us on track to begin production in 2026, and we are continuing to hire so that we can build the best possible team to lead this advanced manufacturing facility.”

The battery park consists of two primary buildings—the cell and pack plants—where Ford will manufacture batteries for its electric vehicle lineup. Spanning approximately two million square feet, the facilities sit on a vast 500-acre site, making this one of the largest battery manufacturing sites in the region.

Challenges and Adjustments to Investment Plans

While Ford continues to advance its battery production capabilities, the company has also made strategic adjustments to its investment in the project. Initially, the automaker announced a $3.5 billion investment for BlueOval Battery Park, but in the fall of 2023, Ford and the State of Michigan scaled back certain financial incentives. As a result, Ford revised its investment estimate to a range of $2.5 billion to $3 billion.

The decision to adjust the investment came at a time when the future of electric vehicles was uncertain, with debates surrounding market demand, government incentives, and consumer adoption rates. Under the Biden administration, EV adoption was a central focus, while former President Trump has voiced skepticism about the affordability and practicality of electric vehicles.

Ford executives remain committed to making electric vehicles more accessible by focusing on reducing battery costs, a critical factor in lowering overall EV prices for consumers.

"I think for us the key is really having cost-effective EVs that hit the price point that people desire, and unlocking that is really centered around the battery," Davis said.

According to Davis, Ford is on track to achieve this goal with BlueOval Battery Park, which is expected to contribute to advancements in battery efficiency and affordability.

Economic and Workforce Impact

Beyond its role in Ford’s electric vehicle strategy, BlueOval Battery Park is expected to have a significant economic impact on the local community. Ford has committed to creating 1,700 jobs at the facility, providing new employment opportunities for Michigan residents.

With construction progressing and hiring efforts underway, Ford’s investment in Marshall represents a long-term commitment to Michigan’s growing EV industry. The facility is expected to be a cornerstone of Ford’s battery production strategy, ensuring that the company remains competitive in the evolving electric vehicle market.

As construction advances toward completion in 2026, Ford continues to emphasize the importance of BlueOval Battery Park in its broader vision for sustainable, cost-effective, and high-performance electric vehicles.