GM and Ford Electric Cars Production Surge Ahead in 2024

GM and Ford are dramatically scaling up electric car production in 2024, with both automakers investing billions to expand EV lineups and retool factories across North America. Ford’s F-150 Lightning and GM’s Chevrolet Silverado EV are leading the charge, targeting over 500,000 combined units this year to meet soaring demand and outpace rivals in the rapidly evolving EV market.

Key Takeaways

• GM and Ford are scaling EV production rapidly in 2024 to meet rising demand.
• New factories will boost output, cutting wait times for popular models.
• Battery tech upgrades extend range and reduce charging times significantly.
• Affordable models are launching, targeting mainstream buyers by late 2024.
• Supply chain fixes aim to prevent delays seen in previous years.
• EV tax credits remain key to driving consumer adoption this year.

The Electric Future is Here: GM and Ford Charge Forward in 2024

Imagine walking into your local dealership, expecting to see rows of gas-powered trucks and SUVs, only to find the lot buzzing with silent, sleek electric vehicles. That’s the reality in 2024, as General Motors (GM) and Ford Motor Company shift gears in a big way. These automotive titans, once synonymous with roaring V8 engines, are now leading the charge in electric vehicle (EV) production. It’s not just a trend—it’s a full-scale transformation. And for everyday drivers, this shift means more choices, better technology, and a cleaner future.

As someone who grew up hearing the rumble of muscle cars and the clink of gas pumps, I’ll admit I was skeptical when EVs first started gaining traction. But after test-driving a few of the latest models from GM and Ford, I’m convinced: the electric revolution is not only real—it’s accelerating. In 2024, both automakers are cranking up production, investing billions in new factories, and rolling out EVs that are more affordable, longer-range, and tech-packed than ever. Whether you’re a city commuter, a family road-tripper, or a truck lover, there’s likely an electric option waiting for you. Let’s dive into how GM and Ford are reshaping the auto industry and what it means for you.

Why GM and Ford Are Betting Big on Electric Cars

The Global Push Toward Electrification

It’s no secret that the world is moving toward cleaner transportation. With climate goals tightening and gas prices fluctuating, governments and consumers alike are demanding greener options. The U.S. government has set a target for 50% of new car sales to be electric by 2030, and states like California are even more aggressive. This regulatory pressure, combined with rising consumer interest, has pushed GM and Ford to pivot hard toward EVs.

GM has gone all-in with its “Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions, Zero Congestion” vision, pledging to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by 2035. Ford, meanwhile, is aiming for 50% of its global sales to be electric by 2030. These aren’t just PR statements—they’re backed by real investment. Both companies are retooling factories, building new gigafactories, and partnering with battery suppliers to secure the supply chain.

Consumer Demand and Competitive Pressure

You might be thinking, “But do people really want electric cars?” The answer is a resounding yes. In 2023, EV sales in the U.S. hit a record high, with over 1.4 million electric vehicles sold—a 50% increase from the previous year. Tesla still leads, but GM and Ford are closing the gap fast. The Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning have become bestsellers, while GM’s Chevrolet Blazer EV and Silverado EV are gaining traction.

And let’s not forget the competition from overseas. Chinese automakers like BYD and NIO are flooding the market with affordable, high-tech EVs. To stay competitive, GM and Ford can’t afford to lag. They’re responding by offering more variety—everything from compact SUVs to full-size electric trucks—at prices that undercut Tesla in some segments.

Long-Term Cost Savings and Brand Loyalty

For GM and Ford, EVs aren’t just about the environment—they’re about economics. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, which means lower maintenance costs and longer lifespans. For consumers, that translates to savings over time. Plus, with federal and state EV tax credits still available in 2024, the upfront cost is more manageable than ever.

But perhaps the biggest incentive for these automakers is brand loyalty. GM and Ford have legions of loyal customers who grew up with their trucks and muscle cars. By offering electric versions of iconic models—like the Silverado EV and the F-150 Lightning—they’re giving their fanbase a reason to stick around instead of switching to Tesla or Rivian.

GM’s Electric Strategy: From Bolt to BrightDrop

The Ultium Platform: GM’s EV Game-Changer

At the heart of GM’s electric revolution is the Ultium platform, a flexible, modular battery and drive system that powers everything from compact SUVs to delivery vans. Think of it as the “backbone” of GM’s EVs. The Ultium platform uses large, pouch-style battery cells that can be arranged in different configurations, allowing GM to build a wide range of vehicles without starting from scratch each time.

This flexibility is a huge advantage. For example, the same Ultium battery pack can be used in the Chevrolet Blazer EV, the GMC Hummer EV, and even the BrightDrop electric delivery van. It saves money, speeds up production, and lets GM respond quickly to market demands. Plus, Ultium batteries are designed to be more energy-dense and recyclable, which aligns with GM’s sustainability goals.

Key Models Rolling Out in 2024

GM’s 2024 lineup is impressive. Here are some standout models:

• Chevrolet Blazer EV: A stylish midsize SUV with up to 320 miles of range and a starting price around $45,000. It’s aimed at families who want an EV that’s both practical and fun to drive.
• Chevrolet Silverado EV: The electric version of America’s best-selling truck. It boasts a range of up to 400 miles, a massive 10,000-pound towing capacity, and a unique “Midgate” that lets you fold down part of the back seat for extra cargo space.
• Cadillac Lyriq: A luxury SUV with a sleek design, advanced tech (like a 33-inch curved LED display), and a range of 312 miles. It’s GM’s answer to the Tesla Model Y and the BMW iX.
• BrightDrop Zevo 600: Not just for consumers—this electric delivery van is being used by companies like FedEx and Walmart to cut emissions and reduce fuel costs.

What’s impressive is that GM is not just launching these vehicles—they’re producing them at scale. The Factory ZERO plant in Detroit, once a traditional assembly line, is now a fully electric vehicle factory. GM plans to produce 400,000 EVs in North America by the end of 2024, a massive leap from just a few years ago.

Challenges and Setbacks

Of course, it hasn’t been smooth sailing. GM faced delays with the Blazer EV due to software issues, and some early models had charging compatibility problems. But the company has been transparent about these hiccups and is working to fix them through over-the-air (OTA) updates and improved quality control.

Another challenge is the charging infrastructure. While GM is partnering with EVgo to expand fast-charging networks, many rural areas still lack reliable charging. For GM’s EVs to truly succeed, the U.S. needs a nationwide charging grid—something that will take time and government support.

Ford’s Electric Surge: From Mustang to F-150

The Ford + Strategy: A Blueprint for EV Success

Ford’s approach to EVs is built around what they call the “Ford+ Plan,” a comprehensive strategy that combines electric vehicles, digital services, and customer experience. Unlike GM, Ford isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s electrifying its most popular models to meet existing demand.

The strategy is working. The Ford Mustang Mach-E was the second-best-selling EV in the U.S. in 2023 (after the Tesla Model Y), and the F-150 Lightning has become a cultural phenomenon—so popular that Ford had to pause orders at one point due to overwhelming demand.

Ford’s key insight? People don’t just want EVs—they want EVs that feel like their favorite vehicles. The Mach-E looks and drives like a Mustang. The Lightning looks and works like an F-150. This “familiarity factor” is a huge selling point.

Production Powerhouses: BlueOval City and Beyond

Ford is investing heavily in production capacity. The crown jewel is BlueOval City, a $5.6 billion EV and battery manufacturing complex in Stanton, Tennessee. When fully operational in 2025, it will produce Ford’s next-gen electric pickup (codenamed “Project T3”) and a new battery plant with 43 GWh of capacity—enough to power hundreds of thousands of EVs per year.

But Ford isn’t waiting. In 2024, it’s already ramping up production at existing plants:

• The Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan is now building the F-150 Lightning at full speed, with plans to produce 150,000 units annually.
• The Cuautitlán Plant in Mexico is churning out the Mustang Mach-E, with a target of 70,000 units this year.
• Ford is also expanding its BlueOval SK battery plants in Kentucky, which will supply batteries for future EVs.

This scale-up is critical. Ford aims to produce 600,000 EVs globally by the end of 2024, and 2 million by 2026. It’s an ambitious goal, but with these factories coming online, it’s within reach.

Innovation in Design and Functionality

Ford is also pushing the envelope with features that set its EVs apart. The F-150 Lightning, for example, has a frunk (front trunk) that’s so big you could fit a suitcase and a cooler in it. It also has Pro Power Onboard, which turns the truck into a mobile power station—useful for camping, job sites, or even powering your home during an outage.

The Mustang Mach-E, meanwhile, offers BlueCruise, Ford’s hands-free highway driving system. It’s not as advanced as Tesla’s Full Self-Driving, but it’s reliable and available on more roads. These practical, real-world features are why Ford’s EVs are resonating with everyday drivers.

Battery Tech and Supply Chain: The Hidden Engine of Growth

Why Batteries Matter More Than Ever

If EVs are the future, batteries are the foundation. Both GM and Ford are investing heavily in battery technology, not just for performance, but for cost and sustainability. The goal? Cheaper, longer-lasting, and more eco-friendly batteries.

GM’s Ultium batteries use a nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminum (NCMA) chemistry, which reduces reliance on expensive cobalt. Ford is working with SK On to develop lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for some of its EVs. LFP batteries are cheaper, safer, and longer-lasting, though they have slightly less energy density than nickel-based batteries.

Both companies are also exploring solid-state batteries, which could double EV range and cut charging time in half. While these are still a few years away, the groundwork is being laid now.

Securing the Supply Chain

The EV race isn’t just about who can build the best car—it’s about who can secure the raw materials. Lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese are in high demand, and supply chains are fragile. To reduce risk, GM and Ford are:

• Signing long-term contracts with mining companies.
• Partnering with battery recyclers to recover materials from old batteries.
• Investing in domestic mining and refining to reduce reliance on China.

For example, GM has partnered with Livent for lithium supply and Redwood Materials for battery recycling. Ford has a deal with Redwood and is building its own battery recycling facility in Michigan. These moves will help stabilize costs and reduce environmental impact.

What This Means for Consumers in 2024

More Choices, Better Prices

The biggest benefit of GM and Ford’s EV production surge is choice. In 2024, you’re no longer limited to a few models. Whether you want a compact SUV, a luxury sedan, a work truck, or a family hauler, there’s an electric option. And with more competition, prices are dropping. The average price of a new EV is now below $50,000—down from over $65,000 just two years ago.

Tips for Buying an EV in 2024

If you’re considering an EV, here are a few tips:

• Test drive multiple models: EVs drive differently. Some are zippy; others are smooth and quiet. Try a few to see what you like.
• Check tax credits: The federal EV tax credit is still available, but it’s now based on battery sourcing. Use the fueleconomy.gov tool to see if your vehicle qualifies.
• Plan your charging: If you live in an apartment, make sure your building has charging or that you can install a Level 2 charger at home.
• Look at total cost of ownership: EVs have lower fuel and maintenance costs. Use online calculators to compare long-term savings.

Charging Infrastructure: The Missing Piece?

Despite progress, charging remains a hurdle. Public chargers are still sparse in rural areas, and fast-charging networks are uneven. But help is coming. GM and Ford are both investing in charging partnerships, and the federal government is funding a national EV charging network. By 2026, we should see a big improvement.

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2025 and Beyond

The surge in GM and Ford electric cars production in 2024 is just the beginning. Both companies have even bigger plans for 2025 and beyond. GM is working on a next-gen Ultium platform that could cut battery costs by 60%. Ford is developing Project T3, a fully electric truck with “unmatched capability and intelligence.”

But beyond the technology, this shift is about culture. For generations, GM and Ford defined American automotive identity. Now, they’re redefining it—proving that the future of driving isn’t about horsepower, but about innovation, sustainability, and smart design.

As a car enthusiast, I’m excited. The rumble of an engine will always have a place in my heart, but the quiet hum of an electric motor? That’s the sound of progress. And in 2024, GM and Ford aren’t just keeping up with the future—they’re driving it.

Model	Manufacturer	2024 Production Target	Starting Price	Range (miles)
Chevrolet Blazer EV	GM	50,000	$45,000	320
Chevrolet Silverado EV	GM	35,000	$75,000	400
Ford F-150 Lightning	Ford	150,000	$50,000	240-320
Ford Mustang Mach-E	Ford	70,000	$43,000	250-305
Cadillac Lyriq	GM	25,000	$58,590	312

Frequently Asked Questions

What is driving the surge in GM and Ford electric cars production in 2024?

General Motors and Ford are accelerating electric car production due to increased consumer demand, stricter emissions regulations, and major investments in EV technology. Both automakers are retooling factories and expanding battery supply chains to meet 2024 targets.

How many electric vehicles will GM and Ford produce in 2024?

GM aims to produce over 500,000 EVs annually by late 2024, while Ford targets 600,000 units, including F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E models. These numbers reflect a significant ramp-up in GM and Ford electric cars production capacity.

Which new EV models are GM and Ford launching this year?

GM is rolling out the Chevrolet Silverado EV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV, while Ford introduces the next-gen Explorer Electric and E-Transit updates. Both companies are focusing on affordable, high-volume models to dominate the EV market.

Are GM and Ford using new battery technology for their 2024 electric cars?

Yes, GM is expanding its Ultium battery platform with higher energy density, while Ford partners with SK On for lithium-ion and explores solid-state batteries. These innovations aim to boost range and cut production costs in the GM and Ford electric cars production lines.

How are GM and Ford addressing charging infrastructure for their EVs?

Ford is expanding its BlueOval Charge Network with 10,000+ fast chargers, while GM collaborates with EVgo and Pilot for 2,000+ stalls. Both are also offering home charging solutions to ease adoption.

What challenges do GM and Ford face in scaling EV production?

Supply chain constraints, battery material shortages, and factory retooling delays remain key hurdles. However, both automakers are securing raw materials and streamlining manufacturing to maintain their 2024 GM and Ford electric cars production goals.