New York, Jan 29, 2026, 11:28 EST — Regular session
- Ford shares ticked up roughly 0.5%, reaching $13.90 in late morning trading.
- A U.S. lawmaker challenged Ford over its battery plans tied to CATL and whether they qualify for tax credits.
- Investors are eyeing Ford’s Feb. 10 quarterly update for clues on its battery and energy-storage strategy.
Ford Motor shares edged up 0.5% to $13.90 in late morning New York trading on Thursday, finding footing after a flurry of Washington scrutiny over its China-related battery strategy. The stock fluctuated between $13.80 and $13.98.
The scrutiny is crucial as Ford aims to establish U.S. supply chains for lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, cells—a cheaper battery type that could bring down costs for mass-market EVs. It also affects tax credits that reduce sticker prices for consumers and influence automakers’ margins.
Representative John Moolenaar, the Republican chair of a House committee on China, pressed CEO Jim Farley about Ford’s licensing deal with China’s CATL and whether it might impact eligibility for new U.S. tax credits. Ford plans to build a $3 billion LFP battery plant in Marshall, Michigan, kicking off production this year. That facility is set to supply batteries for a $30,000 midsize EV truck in the works. The company expressed confidence its batteries comply with tax-credit requirements, emphasizing that “expanding LFP battery production here in the United States isn’t just an investment in energy security — it’s an investment in American workers.” 1
Ford is making a bigger push into grid batteries. This week, it appointed Lisa Drake as president of Ford Energy to spearhead battery energy storage systems—large-scale packs designed to store electricity for utilities and major energy consumers. She will report to Vice Chair John Lawler. “Lisa has deep expertise in scaling complex industrial systems,” Lawler said. Drake added, “Ford Energy allows us to maximize the value of our battery manufacturing capabilities.” 2
Ford plans to introduce a new lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and a boosted motor for the Standard Range versions of its all-electric Explorer SUV and Capri crossover in Europe. This upgrade pushes the driving range past 440 km. Jon Williams, general manager for Ford Blue and Model e in Europe, said, “By upgrading the Explorer and Capri with new LFP battery technology, we are increasing range and durability while keeping it affordable for our customers.” 3
Ford is recalling close to 117,000 U.S. vehicles equipped with an aftermarket engine block heater. The heaters have a risk of cracking, leaking coolant, and short-circuiting when plugged in, which could lead to fires, according to WardsAuto. The company plans to send interim letters starting Feb. 9, with remedy notices following on April 13, the report added. 4
General Motors climbed 1.1%, but Tesla dropped 2.1%.
The market remains uncertain about the Federal Reserve’s next move on rate cuts after the central bank paused on Wednesday without clear hints on timing. For automakers, this matters—since most U.S. buyers rely on financing to make their purchases. 5
But there’s risk on the horizon. Should policymakers clamp down on Chinese-linked battery supply, Ford might see delays, increased costs, or lose access to key incentives. On top of that, widespread recall repairs could squeeze margins further.
Ford’s next big moment comes on Feb. 10, when it holds its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call at 5 p.m. ET. Investors will be watching for updates on the Marshall battery plant, the rollout of Ford Energy, and any shifts in warranty trends. 6
