Core Viewpoint - Ford is actively developing a disruptive battery chemistry, the Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) battery, aimed at achieving lower costs and longer range for electric vehicles by 2030 [6][10][23]. Group 1: Battery Development and Innovation - Ford initially offered Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries and later introduced Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries in 2023, with LMR batteries being the next significant advancement [6][12]. - The LMR battery is expected to provide higher safety, stability, and energy density compared to nickel-based batteries, leading to longer driving ranges [8][19]. - Ford's Ion Park research center in Michigan is focused on innovative battery materials and manufacturing processes, aiming to reduce costs across all aspects of battery technology [12][14]. Group 2: Market Position and Goals - Ford's overarching goal is to address two major barriers to electric vehicle adoption: high purchase prices and range anxiety [10][23]. - The company aims to achieve unprecedented cost reductions with the LMR battery, which is crucial for achieving price parity with gasoline vehicles [8][20]. - Ford's electric vehicle sales increased by 11.5% year-over-year in Q1 2025, indicating a strengthening momentum in the electric vehicle market [21]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Challenges - The LMR battery technology is seen as a potential game-changer, with the possibility of reducing or eliminating the need for cobalt, thus lowering procurement costs [20]. - Other companies are also researching similar battery formulations, but Ford claims to have addressed key challenges such as voltage decay and gas generation that have hindered LMR commercialization [27][29]. - Despite the advancements, experts remain cautious about the LMR battery's long-term viability due to historical challenges in energy density and thermal stability [26][32].