Ford Halts $3.5B EV Battery Factory Project Amid Controversy

Ford has halted work on its $3.5 billion EV battery factory in Michigan, which was intended to produce cheaper lithium iron phosphate batteries in collaboration with China's CATL. The automaker cited the need to ensure competitive operation of the plant as the reason for the pause, without providing specific details or confirming if the project will be shelved altogether. This decision comes amid a limited strike affecting Ford, GM, and Stellantis, as well as ongoing investigations into Ford's licensing deal with CATL. The factory, which received $1.7 billion in state incentives, was expected to employ 2,500 workers and begin production in 2026.