Ford Launches DC Energy Storage Cabinet to Challenge Tesla Megapack in Stationary Storage Market

Ford has officially entered the stationary battery energy storage market through its newly established subsidiary, Ford Energy, unveiling its first product—the DC Energy Storage Cabinet—to directly compete with Tesla’s Megapack. The product integrates hundreds of 512 Ah lithium iron phosphate (LFP) prismatic cells and a complete suite of power electronics within a standard 20-foot shipping container. It is offered in two configurations—two-hour and four-hour duration—and features a liquid-cooled thermal management system along with a three-tier battery management system that enables real-time monitoring of voltage, current, temperature, state of charge (SOC), and state of health (SOH). Each container includes a multi-layer fire protection system with integrated smoke, heat, and hydrogen detection, as well as ventilation and fire suppression mechanisms. The DC Energy Storage Cabinet offers a capacity of 5.45 MWh, operates at a rated DC voltage range of 1,040 to 1,500 volts, functions in ambient temperatures from -35°C to 55°C, achieves an IP55 ingress protection rating, and is designed for a service life of at least 20 years. Ford has retrofitted its battery plant in Glendale, Kentucky, for production of this product. Originally built as a joint venture with SK On to assemble high-nickel battery packs for the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit models, the partnership was terminated at the end of 2023, with Ford retaining full ownership of the Kentucky facility while SK On took sole control of the Tennessee plant. With the F-150 Lightning discontinued in 2023 and sluggish sales of the E-Transit electric van, Ford is pivoting toward energy storage. The company aims to achieve fully integrated in-house manufacturing—from electrode rolls and individual cell modules to complete energy storage containers—with an annual production target of 20 GWh. Initial customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in early 2027. In comparison, Tesla’s energy storage business has already deployed over 47 GWh of projects across more than 65 countries, with Megapack annual production capacity reaching 80 GWh—equivalent to approximately 20,000 units.