Ford Media Center

How Ford Factories are Using Carparks to Generate Power

BANGKOK, Thailand, 12 May, 2024 – Ford is committed to building a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable transportation future, announcing that it is working toward sourcing 100 per cent carbon-free electricity for global manufacturing by 2035. The brand is well on its way, achieving 70.5% of carbon-free electricity used in global manufacturing operations in 2023.

At key Ranger and Everest production facilities in South Africa and Thailand, solar power is vital in helping Ford to achieve its goal. Indeed, Ford boasts the largest solar canopy carparks in Africa (Silverton Assembly Plant) and Thailand (Ford Thailand Manufacturing).

“Solar canopy carparks are an incredibly exciting opportunity for Ford as they allow us to make use of spaces that would otherwise have limited use,” said Andrea` Cavallaro, director of operations, International Market Group, Ford.

Renewable Energy

“Car parks have incredible potential for photovoltaic systems, converting solar energy into electricity,” said Cavallaro. “The advantage is that they provide shelter for finished vehicles from the rain and excessive heat while also providing power for nearby facilities.”

At Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, a 13.5MW solar carport, with parking for more than 3500 vehicles was completed in 2022 and now contributes 18% of the electricity needed to produce each Ranger. This means more than 20,800 Rangers per annum can be manufactured using power generated by the sun.

Similarly, at Ford Thailand Manufacturing (FTM), a 7.7MW solar carport has recently been switched on providing shelter for more than 1500 vehicles. The solar roof contributes to an annual reduction of more than 5700 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and contributes up to 20% of the energy needed to produce every single Ranger and Ranger Raptor. Or, to put this into perspective, around 21,000 Ranger/Ranger Raptors every year, at FTM, can be built using solar power alone.

Auto Alliance Thailand announced plans to build an 8MW floating solar energy array near its Rayong facility this year. The project is scheduled to go online in September and will offset more than 5400 tons of CO2 emissions per year. This will supplement the 6MW solar project the plant already has in operation, making AAT Ford’s largest user of solar energy in the region at 14MW.

“At Ford, we’re focused on environmental quality; both in terms of what we build and how we build. We’ve continued to push ourselves to conserve water, reduce waste and transition to carbon-free electricity in manufacturing. Initiatives like solar canopy carparks and floating solar farms are an incredibly vital part of our Road to Better commitment, which helps build a more sustainable, inclusive and equitable transportation future,” said Cavallaro.

“That these systems can make use of otherwise inert space and contribute in a very real way to our production needs, whilst reducing our reliance on fossil fuels for energy, is an important contribution in our ongoing ambition to help build a better world,” concluded Cavallaro.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 177,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.