The most ambitious construction project in Ford's 119-year history is officially underway. The automaker recently broke ground on BlueOval City in West Tennessee, less than a year after Ford and SK On announced plans to build the $5.6 billion complex. It's where Ford plans to build an all-new electric truck and advanced batteries for future Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The automaker has targeted a 2 million EV production run globally by late 2026.
Photo Credit: Ford.
“We are building the future right here in West Tennessee,” said Eric Grubb, Ford’s director of new footprint construction. “This facility is the blueprint for Ford’s future manufacturing facilities and will enable Ford to help lead America’s shift to electric vehicles.”
The BlueOval City mega campus encompasses nearly 6-square miles. When production starts up in 2025, Ford says it will create about 6,000 new jobs.
“Ford’s historic investment in West Tennessee is a testament to our state’s strong business climate and unmatched workforce,” said Governor Bill Lee. “BlueOval City will have a transformational impact on Tennesseans and our economy, and we’re proud this global company will call Haywood County home.”
By The Numbers
Ford and its construction partners started construction prep back in March, no small task as these numbers indicate. Ford says:
- Crews have moved more than 4.6 million cubic yards of soil, enough to fill approximately 34,500 backyard swimming pools
- Nearly 370,000 tons of stone have been laid, the weight of more than 1,600 Statues of Liberty
- More than 4,600 deep foundations installed, totaling the height of approximately 176 Eiffel Towers when put end to end
Credit: Ford.
Ford In The Community
Ford says along with the new campus, it's engaging in communities in West Tennessee and working with the University of Tennessee to restore the stream waters flowing through the University’s Lone Oaks Farm and to expand STEM education to Tennessee students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Photo Credit: Ford.