Ford announces its plans to introduce an affordable electric pickup model
In the rapidly evolving electric vehicle (EV) industry, Ford is making a bold move towards smaller, cheaper electric vehicles, aiming to challenge the dominance of Chinese EV giants in the midsize pickup truck segment. The American automaker plans to launch a new electric truck in 2027, priced competitively at around $30,000[1][2][3].
This upcoming electric vehicle will be built on Ford’s new Universal EV Platform, which promises cost savings through fewer parts, streamlined assembly, and innovative battery technology featuring a cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack[2]. The truck is expected to be size comparable to the gas-powered Ford Maverick, but with interior space similar to a Toyota RAV4, indicating a roomy passenger cabin[3].
Performance-wise, Ford aims for a 0-60 mph time similar to a Mustang EcoBoost, emphasising spirited driving dynamics without compromising affordability goals[2][3]. The vehicle will be assembled in Kentucky, using lower-cost LFP batteries from Ford's battery plant in Marshall, Michigan[2].
Currently, the competitive landscape for affordable electric vehicles in the midsize pickup truck segment is sparse, with most existing electric pickup trucks (Tesla Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, GMC Hummer EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV) positioned in the higher price segments, generally above $40,000 to $70,000 or more[4][5].
Ford's new electric vehicle will employ strategies like using a small number of large die-cast metal pieces for a truck's body and using the battery as a structural component of the car, which have proven successful in the EV industry. The company believes that this price point makes the electric truck competitively priced for a truck and cheaper than many competitors' electric models[1].
However, the EV industry faces headwinds, including efforts to roll back policies that promote EVs and fight climate change. Federal tax credits for EVs are expiring at the end of September, which is expected to slow demand even more. Despite these challenges, Ford executives have emphasised the need for the new vehicle to be sustainable as a business proposition, acknowledging the past failures of Detroit automakers in making budget-priced vehicles profitably[1].
In a bid to attract a wider range of buyers, Ford thinks it can unlock a market with the $30,000 price point for its electric truck, as it believes these buyers are not tempted by the pricier EVs currently available[1]. The company held a splashy event in Louisville to make it clear it is moving forward with this project, after canceling its large electric SUV and delaying a next generation of electric full-size trucks and vans[1].
References:
[1] The Verge
[2] CNET
[3] Autoblog
[4] Car and Driver
[5] MotorTrend
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