FORD OPENS COLOGNE EV CENTER – HOME OF A NEW GENERATION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES – FIRST CARBON NEUTRAL ASSEMBLY PLANT
- The Ford Cologne Electric Vehicle Center officially opens following a $2 billion investment to transform the historic plant, first founded in 1930
- The hi-tech center will produce a new generation of electric passenger vehicles for European markets and secure skilled German manufacturing jobs
- Ford Cologne Electric Vehicle Center will be Ford’s first carbon neutral vehicle assembly plant globally, an important milestone on the Road to Better
- With an annual production capacity of 250,000 EVs, the new EV Center supports the company’s global plans to reach a run rate of two million EVs annually by the end of 2026
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*Survey conducted on behalf of Ford Pro by PSB, a modern global research insights consultancy, in the United States, United Kingdom and Germany among 1,250 corporate fleet decision makers from Dec. 14-23, 2021.
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*Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with plug-in device (PID). Requires modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services are subscription services subject to agreement to FSM terms and conditions. Subscription subject to monthly charge. Subject to OFAC and credit check for subscription eligibility. Connected service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
**Disclaimer - Based on original equipment manufacturers(OEM)/automotive manufacturers that sell all-electric vehicles and have publicly announced charging networks. Department of Energy data used. FordPass, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
***Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with approved plug-in device (PID). May require modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services require a purchased subscription. Terms and conditions apply. Telematics service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
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Note: IHS Markit global vehicle registrations are compiled from government and other sources and capture 95 percent of global new vehicle volumes in more than 80 countries. Sports cars, as defined by IHS Markit, include all vehicles in the IHS Markit Global Sports Car segment. Mustang is America’s best-selling sports car over the last 50 years, based on Ford analysis of 1966-2018 total U.S. new vehicle cumulative registrations for all sports car segments supplied by IHS Markit.
COLOGNE, Germany, June 12, 2023 – Ford today opened the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center, a hi-tech production facility in Germany that will build Ford’s new generation of electric passenger vehicles for millions of European customers.
Ford has transformed its historic plant in Niehl, Cologne – first founded in 1930 – as part of a $2 billion investment which represents a major vote of confidence in skilled German manufacturing jobs and the future of automotive production in Europe.
Designed to be highly efficient, the 125-hectare site is equipped with a brand-new production line, battery assembly and state-of-the-art tooling and automation, enabling an annual production capacity of 250,000+ EVs. Following the successes of Mustang Mach-E, E-Transit and F-150 Lightning, Ford recently unveiled its fourth EV globally, the electric Explorer, which will be the first electric vehicle to be produced in Cologne, followed by a second electric vehicle, a sports crossover.
The Cologne EV Center will be Ford’s first carbon neutral assembly plant to open globally and supports the company’s commitment to reach carbon neutrality across its entire European footprint of facilities, logistics and direct suppliers by 2035.
“Opening the Cologne EV Center is the start of a new generation of clean manufacturing and electric vehicles in Europe,” said Bill Ford, Executive Chair. “This facility will now be one of the most efficient and environmentally responsible plants in the entire industry. I am thrilled to continue working toward a zero emissions future for our children and grandchildren.”
Federal Chancellor, Olaf Scholz said, "The Electric Vehicle Center represents a fresh start and is the largest investment in the company's history at the Ford plant in Cologne. This is good news for Cologne, for the auto industry in Germany, for e-mobility and for the new era."
From the Model A to the new electric Explorer: A new era for Ford in Europe
The opening of the Cologne EV Center is the latest chapter in the long history of the Ford Cologne plant, which has been at the heart of the European automotive industry since 1930. Iconic vehicles built at the site have included the Ford Model A, Taunus, Capri, Granada, and Fiesta.
For more than 90 years, the Ford plant in Cologne, producing over 18 million cars, has been one of Ford’s most efficient plants worldwide and has enabled freedom of mobility for millions of Europeans across generations.
“The Cologne EV Center signals the start of a new era for Ford in Europe,” said Martin Sander, general manager of Ford Model e Europe. “We are once again redefining auto manufacturing, implementing advanced technologies to build fully connected, software-defined vehicles that meet our customers’ demand for zero emission mobility.”
At the core of the Cologne EV Center are digital advancements that connect machines, vehicles and workers. Implementing self-learning machines, autonomous transport systems and big data management in real time are integral to improve the efficiency of the production processes and get better over time, assuring high quality.
Ford is also going a step further to support, not supersede human excellence. New cognitive and collaborative robots, and augmented reality solutions will support its employees and will increase efficiencies and data exchange with other plants to share experiences in real time.
A carbon neutral electric vehicle centre - Ford is turning its Road to Better plan into reality
To achieve carbon neutrality, Ford will reduce the use of energy and emissions in the plant by the installation of new processes, machinery, and technologies. All electricity and natural gas required to operate the facility is carbon neutral based on being 100 per cent certified renewable electricity and biomethane.
The heat required to warm the facility and processes is carbon neutral, as the local energy provider will offset the corresponding emissions from the assembly plant on behalf of Ford. The heat is generated by an external power plant and waste incineration plant and provided through a dedicated steam network to Ford.
The local energy provider plans to reduce their operating emissions for this heat delivery by approximately 60 per cent in 2026 and then eliminate these emissions completely by 2035. Once fully operational, Ford Cologne’s EV Center will be independently certified as carbon neutral. This independent certification will be audited and reconciled on a regular basis against purchasing high quality carbon offsets for any remaining emissions.
The technological upgrade of the Ford Cologne EV Center is accompanied by an ecological improvement of biodiversity and the ecological balance of the existing factory greenspace. Installed measures include a new perennial forb vegetation, change of ecologically poor grass areas to wildflower meadows and insect hotels as well as bat and bird habitats.
“The carbon neutral Cologne EV Center is a leading automotive industry showcase for the switch from traditional auto manufacturing to electric vehicle production,” concluded Sander. “The facilities and processes have been designed by our engineers to maximise efficiency and minimise environmental impact, helping Ford become carbon neutral in Europe and supporting our global decarbonisation plan.”
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1 Based on S&P Global Mobility January 2022-December 2022, US TIPNet, including Electric Cargo Vans, Passenger Vans and Cutaway Vans.
2 Based on 2022 CY OEM-reported data.
3 Based on Ford of Europe sales data.
4 Based on 2022 CY Motor Intelligence Data.
5 Based on enrolled vehicle data within Ford Pro E-Telematics from 2/26/2022 through 3/6/2023 in the U.S. and Canada.
*Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with plug-in device (PID). Requires modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services are subscription services subject to agreement to FSM terms and conditions. Subscription subject to monthly charge. Subject to OFAC and credit check for subscription eligibility. Connected service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
**Disclaimer - Based on original equipment manufacturers(OEM)/automotive manufacturers that sell all-electric vehicles and have publicly announced charging networks. Department of Energy data used. FordPass, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
***Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with approved plug-in device (PID). May require modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services require a purchased subscription. Terms and conditions apply. Telematics service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
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Note: IHS Markit global vehicle registrations are compiled from government and other sources and capture 95 percent of global new vehicle volumes in more than 80 countries. Sports cars, as defined by IHS Markit, include all vehicles in the IHS Markit Global Sports Car segment. Mustang is America’s best-selling sports car over the last 50 years, based on Ford analysis of 1966-2018 total U.S. new vehicle cumulative registrations for all sports car segments supplied by IHS Markit.
- A focus on STEM-based curriculum in combination with hands-on learning
- Reaching students early and reinforcing the opportunities available for upward professional and economic advancement
- Collaboration with dealers through their involvement in participating schools, career fairs, shadowing days, mentoring, and internships
- For more information and to apply for the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship opportunity students can visit www.TechForce.org/FordFund
Applications are due by June 30, 2023, and applicants will be notified of the results on a rolling basis throughout the spring and summer.
1 Based on S&P Global Mobility January 2022-December 2022, US TIPNet, including Electric Cargo Vans, Passenger Vans and Cutaway Vans.
2 Based on 2022 CY OEM-reported data.
3 Based on Ford of Europe sales data.
4 Based on 2022 CY Motor Intelligence Data.
5 Based on enrolled vehicle data within Ford Pro E-Telematics from 2/26/2022 through 3/6/2023 in the U.S. and Canada.
*Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with plug-in device (PID). Requires modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services are subscription services subject to agreement to FSM terms and conditions. Subscription subject to monthly charge. Subject to OFAC and credit check for subscription eligibility. Connected service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
**Disclaimer - Based on original equipment manufacturers(OEM)/automotive manufacturers that sell all-electric vehicles and have publicly announced charging networks. Department of Energy data used. FordPass, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
***Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with approved plug-in device (PID). May require modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services require a purchased subscription. Terms and conditions apply. Telematics service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
# # #
Note: IHS Markit global vehicle registrations are compiled from government and other sources and capture 95 percent of global new vehicle volumes in more than 80 countries. Sports cars, as defined by IHS Markit, include all vehicles in the IHS Markit Global Sports Car segment. Mustang is America’s best-selling sports car over the last 50 years, based on Ford analysis of 1966-2018 total U.S. new vehicle cumulative registrations for all sports car segments supplied by IHS Markit.
*Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with plug-in device (PID). Requires modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services are subscription services subject to agreement to FSM terms and conditions. Subscription subject to monthly charge. Subject to OFAC and credit check for subscription eligibility. Connected service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
**Disclaimer - Based on original equipment manufacturers(OEM)/automotive manufacturers that sell all-electric vehicles and have publicly announced charging networks. Department of Energy data used. FordPass, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
***Available on vehicles with embedded modem or equipped with approved plug-in device (PID). May require modem activation. Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services require a purchased subscription. Terms and conditions apply. Telematics service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on subscription and compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features.
Project T3 is short for “Trust The Truck” – a code name that stuck after the development team made it their rallying cry. The team’s single guiding principle has been to create a truck people can trust in the digital age – one that’s fully updatable, constantly improving, and supports towing, hauling, exportable power and endless new innovations owners will want.
The assembly plant will use carbon-free electricity from the day it opens. For the first time in 120 years, Ford also is using recovered energy from the site’s utility infrastructure and geothermal system to provide carbon-free heat for the assembly plant – saving about 300 million cubic feet of natural gas typically needed each year to heat similarly sized vehicle assembly plants.
The 3,600-acre campus also has a fully integrated BlueOval SK battery manufacturing site. On-site, the team will build battery cells and arrays and assemble battery packs that will be delivered just across the site into the assembly plant, in less than 30 minutes.
The 3,600-acre campus also has a fully integrated BlueOval SK battery manufacturing site. On-site, the team will build battery cells and arrays and assemble battery packs that will be delivered just across the site into the assembly plant, in less than 30 minutes.
The 3,600-acre campus also has a fully integrated BlueOval SK battery manufacturing site. On-site, the team will build battery cells and arrays and assemble battery packs that will be delivered just across the site into the assembly plant, in less than 30 minutes.
In addition, BlueOval City is developing an on-site supplier park and will have an upfit center capable of adding in dozens of Ford trucks’ most popular features – including robotically installed spray-in bedliners and integrated tool boxes before the pickups are released to dealers and customers.
To help reduce traffic congestion and emissions, the campus also has an on-site Lowe’s store supplying building materials, two construction equipment rental companies and three concrete batch plants.
Building Tomorrow’s Workforce
To prepare individuals for new jobs at BlueOval City, Ford is introducing BlueOval Learning to empower future workers to build an EV future in America. This talent development program will strengthen skills, provide teacher support and increase work-based learning experiences. Key elements include:
- Building STEM curricula: Ford will support K-12 schools and universities to expand existing STEM-related curricula and infrastructure
- Bringing advanced manufacturing to local schools: Ford will provide mechatronics training equipment and program development in Haywood, Tipton and Lauderdale counties
- Kick-starting careers in high school: Ford will help to expand certifications and dual-enrollment opportunities for students
- Experiential learning: Ford will partner with colleges and universities to develop work-based learning such as co-ops and internships
- Premier training in advanced technologies: Ford will collaborate with higher education institutions to provide training on advanced manufacturing, EVs and battery manufacturing
- BlueOval City TCAT: This state-of-the-art training center, a $40 million investment by the State of Tennessee and created with the Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology, will be a hub for education resources and best-in-class training programs
For more about employment at BlueOval City, visit Ford Global.
Expanding Community Support
Ford is working to ensure local touches are included in BlueOval City’s design – including crops and art.
Ford EV designers, marketers and land development leaders are collaborating with the University of Memphis Department of Art to create a student-led art installation to serve as a landmark for BlueOval City. The piece – which is the focus of a University sculpture art course – will be installed this summer.
Native Tennessee grasses will be planted on about 500 acres to support local wildlife and select local farmers also are invited to continue planting and harvesting crops on 380 acres of the site, saved for future expansion as EV adoption grows.
Plus, Ford Motor Company Fund is leading a capital grants program to strengthen local communities’ infrastructure in West Tennessee. Local non-profits and municipalities in the area have been selected as grant recipients, receiving a total of nearly $1.2 million to help build capacity and infrastructure to better serve the community’s needs for generations to come.
The Ford Fund capital grant winners by county:
- Haywood County: Brownsville Haywood Fire Department, Douglass Community, The Town of Stanton, Haywood County Ambulance Authority
- Madison County: Boys & Girls Club of Jackson, Exchange Club – Carl Perkins
- Lauderdale County: Gates Volunteer Fire Department, Lauderdale County Council of Arts, Tennessee State Parks Conservancy
- Shelby County: Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South, Memphis A. Philip Randolph Institute, Code Crew, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital
- Tipton County: Tipton County Government, Mason Fire Auxiliary
- Fayette County: Fayette Cares Inc., Fayette County Citizens for Progress
“We are thrilled to announce the winners of our capital grants program in West Tennessee,” said Mary Culler, Ford Motor Company Fund president. “Investing in local nonprofit organizations and municipalities is one powerful way we can help ensure communities grow stronger from our presence in the region. Together we can create new opportunities to thrive – not just for today, but for generations to come.”
Ford, Ford Motor Company Fund and partners have now invested more than $20 million in Tennessee communities to advance economic and educational opportunities, preserve legacy institutions and protect the environment in West Tennessee and across the state.
LFP Battery Chemistry to Benefit Ford Customers
Offering LFP as a second battery chemistry – in addition to nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) – allows Ford customers to choose an electric vehicle with unique battery performance characteristics most aligned with their needs.
LFP batteries are very durable and tolerate more frequent and faster charging while using fewer high-demand, high-cost materials. This lower-cost battery, at scale, will help Ford contain or even further reduce EV prices for customers. These LFP batteries will power a variety of affordable, next-generation Ford EV passenger vehicles and trucks under development, most of which will be assembled in the U.S.
“Ford’s electric vehicle lineup has generated huge demand. To get as many Ford EVs to customers as possible, we’re the first automaker to commit to build both NCM and LFP batteries in the United States,” said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. “We’re delivering on our commitments as we scale LFP and NCM batteries and thousands, and soon millions, of customers will begin to reap the benefits of Ford EVs with cutting-edge, durable battery technologies that are growing more affordable over time.”
Even before the new battery plant opens, Ford will introduce LFP batteries on Mustang Mach-E this year and F-150 Lightning in 2024 to increase production capacity, with a goal of reducing wait times for customers.
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