Ford workers produce the electric F-150 Lightning pickup truck on December 13, 2022 at the automaker’s Ford Rouge Electric Vehicle Center (REVC).
Michael Wayland | CNBC
DETROIT – Ford Motor has halted production and shipping of the electric F-150 Lightning pickup truck due to potential battery problems, the company said Tuesday.
Ford spokeswoman Emma Bergg declined to elaborate on a possible problem with the battery, which is being investigated after a vehicle had a potential problem during pre-delivery quality checks. of the car manufacturer.
According to Bergg, orders to stop deliveries and stop production were issued early last week. It adds to ongoing “execution problems” detailed to investors earlier this month by Ford CEO Jim Farley.
Bergg said Ford has not set a production timeline and shipments will resume.
“The team is diligently working on a root cause analysis,” Bergg said, adding that the company is “doing the right thing with our customers” to address any potential issues before proceeding. production and delivery.
Bergg said the company is not aware of any problems or issues related to a potential battery problem. There is no discontinuance for vehicles already on the dealer lot, meaning dealers can continue to sell the cars they already have in hand.
The suspension of production and delivery is First report on Tuesday by the Motor Vehicle Authority.
The F-150 Lightning is being closely watched by investors as it is the first mainstream electric pickup on the market and a key launch product for Ford.
Automakers regularly experience vehicle-related crashes and recalls, but battery issues are of particular concern and concern, as automakers invest billions of dollars in vehicles.
One of the most notable problems is with General Motors’ Chevrolet Bolt electric car. The Detroit automaker had to recall all vehicles construction started two years ago to resolve fire problems caused by “rare manufacturing defects” at battery supplier LG Battery Solution facilities.
