Ford turns a setback into a win

Core Viewpoint - Ford is facing challenges in its electric vehicle (EV) division, leading to a significant $19.5 billion pre-tax write-down and a strategic shift towards hybrid and extended-range vehicles, while also launching a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) business to capitalize on growing demand in the data center market [1][4]. Group 1: Financial Impact - Ford's stock is down approximately 2.4%, trading around $13.3, following the announcement of the write-down [1]. - The company has experienced a 28% gain in stock value over the past six months, which is now at risk due to the recent developments [1]. - The cancellation of a $6.5 billion battery agreement with LG Energy Solution poses a significant revenue risk for LG, equivalent to over a third of its total revenue last year [2]. Group 2: Strategic Shift - Ford plans to repurpose its existing battery manufacturing capacity in Glendale, Kentucky, to focus on the BESS market, investing around $2 billion over the next two years [4]. - The company aims to manufacture advanced battery energy storage systems with an initial capacity to be online within 18 months and plans to deploy at least 20 GWh annually by late 2027 [5]. Group 3: Market Opportunity - The demand for battery energy storage in data centers is driven by the AI boom, presenting a significant business opportunity for Ford [5]. - Newer data centers are being constructed at a pace that outstrips the capacity of traditional power utilities, indicating a growing need for alternative power solutions like battery systems [7]. - By 2028, only 40% of new data centers are expected to rely solely on the electricity grid, highlighting the potential for battery-based backup systems [7].