Ford announces first affordable EV for 2027

Ford has shared an update on a new affordable electric vehicle (EV) and the first model from this segment will come around 2027.

After down winds in EV sales, Ford has changed its electrification strategy and focused on small vehicles with range efficiency.

These vehicles will use a new platform and the company has dedicated a skunkworks team in California to build the next-generation EV platform. This platform aims to strengthen efficiency while delivering optimum performance.

The team is working on this platform with a systems-integration approach. It covers different segments including design, engineering, supply chain, and manufacturing.

On the other hand, it is tracking ways to reduce the cost and complexity of the development and supply by restructuring the supply chain and providing a vehicle at a price that competes against other players.

“We’ve recruited the most technically skilled and creative professionals from inside and outside Ford to drive a radical change in how we develop and electric vehicle,” said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford.

The team is led by a former Tesla executive who has been working on critical projects while working at the EV company.

“These electric vehicles will be lower cost and not compromised in any ways” Farley added.

The shift in strategy is also a part of the growing challenges from Chinese competitors, who are offering new EVs at a record-low price in the global market. Ford has noticed this competition and amending its vehicle lineup to ensure it survives in this EV race.

Additionally, the carmaker has revealed a potential launch date for the first affordable vehicle. Specifically, it will be a mid-sized electric pickup truck that will launch in 2027.

It’s expected to bring cost-savings, reduce the purchase price, and provide range and features similar to the current F-150 Lighting. Furthermore, Ford will enhance its efforts to provide better software support for future affordable vehicles.

(source – Ford)