Ford Targets AI Data Center Opportunity With Energy Storage Push; Shares Post Biggest Gain in Six Years

Ford Motor is repurposing existing battery production lines to make battery energy storage systems (BESS) as electric-vehicle demand cools and the company reallocates battery capacity. Rapidly rising power demand from AI data centers is creating new opportunities in reliable power supply and backup storage, giving Ford a chance to extend its manufacturing capabilities beyond the automotive market.

Ford announced the formation of a subsidiary, Ford Energy, that will convert battery production lines to make BESS, with deliveries to data centers and other customers expected to begin in 2027. Morgan Stanley is bullish on Ford's potential in the AI infrastructure power market. The news sent Ford shares up more than 13% in a day, their biggest one-day gain in nearly six years.