FORD is seemingly struggling to source rare-earth magnets which led to a production shutdown at one of its factories earlier this year.
The famous Blue Oval, among other car giants, desperately need the materials dysprosium and terbium which are essential for producing electric vehicles and other modern tech.
According to the Wall Street Journal, obtaining these magnets remains difficult due to China‘s dominance in the global supply of rare-earth elements – all despite a recent agreement between the US and China to ease export controls.
This comes as Ford had to halt production at a factory in Chicago earlier this year due to a shortage of magnets – considered critical components for EVs as they allow the motors to operate efficiently at high speeds and temperatures.
Rare-earth magnets are also vital for things like smartphones and even fighter jets.
The shutdown highlights the supply-chain difficulties Ford has been facing in recent times, worsened by China’s restrictions on exporting rare-earth materials.
While Ford has managed to improve the situation since the shutdown, the company is still struggling with limited availability and is said to be working to “move things around” to prevent further disruptions in production, according to the report.
In April, China implemented export licensing requirements for rare-earth magnets, further complicating global access.
At present, China controls approximately 90% of the supply of these critical materials.
It isn’t just Ford that is struggling, as other carmakers are facing delays in export licence approvals too.
Experts believe this could lead to production halts if the shortages persist.
While a temporary six-month deal between the US and China was recently struck to resume export licenses, it hasn’t significantly improved the pace of approvals.
Furthermore, the agreement allows China to maintain its control over these minerals, potentially leveraging them in future trade negotiations.
“It’s hand to mouth – the normal supply-chain scrambling that you have to do,” said Lisa Drake, a vice president overseeing Ford’s planning for batteries and EVs.
BRING ‘EM BACK
Ford has recalled thousands of its trucks over a potentially fatal brake defect.
The company issued a recall for 2,345 vehicles bought this year between March 19 and May 4.
Any customer who bought a F-250, F-350, F-450, or F-550 Super Duty model has been warned not to drive the trucks due to a major brake malfunction.
In a recall filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the cars have been labeled with an urgent “Do not drive” warning.
The issue is related to the lack of a retaining spring for the brake booster pushrod, a crucial part of a vehicle’s braking system.
According to the recall notice, the retaining spring may not have been installed in the recalled models.
What are the current Honda models?
Honda vehicles are sold through more than 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers
SUVs and Crossovers: 2025 HR-V; 2025 CR-V; 2025 CR-V Hybrid; 2025 Pilot; 2025 Passport; 2024 Prologue; 2025 CR-V FCEV
Sedans: 2025 Civic Sedan; 2025 Accord Sedan; 2025 Civic Sedan Hybrid; 2025 Civic Si Sedan; 2025 Accord Hybrid
Hatchbacks: 2025 Civic Hatchback; 2025 Civic Hatchback Hybrid; 2025 Civic Type R
Minivan and Truck: 2025 Ridgeline; 2025 Odyssey
Electrified: 2025 Civic Sedan Hybrid; 2025 Civic Hatchback Hybrid; 2025 Accord Hybrid; 2025 CR-V Hybrid; 2024 Prologue; 2025 CR-V e:FCEV
Previous year models: 2024 Civic Hatchback; 2024 Accord Sedan; 2024 Accord Hybrid; 2024 Ridgeline; 2024 Civic Type R
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Ford admits it’s ‘still scrambling’ after being forced to shut down production as it battles to avoid further closures )
Also on site :
- Germany to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP in 2029
- King Charles Makes Heartfelt Move in Honor of Prince William's Birthday
- Ukrainian kamikaze drone hits residential tower near Moscow (PHOTOS)