Ford Motor Company has appointed Lisa Drake as President of Ford Energy, effective immediately, marking a major step in the automaker’s expansion into battery energy storage systems (BESS). Drake will report to John Lawler, Vice Chair of Ford Motor Company.
In her new role, Drake will lead the launch and development of Ford’s newly formed battery energy storage business, first announced in December 2025. She will oversee Ford Energy’s end-to-end operations, including battery cell manufacturing, system assembly, and sales, while building the leadership team required to scale the business in a rapidly growing market.
“Lisa has deep expertise in scaling complex industrial systems and securing critical supply chains,” said John Lawler. “Her leadership is essential as we stand up Ford Energy to meet the increasing demand for reliable battery energy storage that supports grid stability and resilience for utilities and large energy users.”
Drake brings extensive experience in battery and electric propulsion systems. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Technology Platform Programs and EV Systems, where she led the industrialization strategy for battery production and electric powertrain engineering. Her background in manufacturing and purchasing is expected to play a key role in operationalizing Ford Energy, which will leverage the company’s battery expertise and U.S. manufacturing footprint.
“Ford Energy allows us to maximize the value of our battery manufacturing capabilities,” Drake said. “We are building a business initially focused on utility-scale battery energy storage systems for large customers, while also offering battery cells for residential energy storage solutions.”
With Ford Energy now open for business, the company is positioning itself to capitalize on growing demand for energy storage solutions driven by grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and energy resilience.
The appointment underscores Ford’s broader strategy to extend its electrification capabilities beyond vehicles and into the rapidly evolving energy ecosystem.
