Ford's pioneering electric vehicle (EV) platform debuts with an initial release as a midsize truck priced at $30,000

Ford's pioneering electric vehicle (EV) platform debuts with an initial release as a midsize truck priced at $30,000

Ford is set to revolutionise the electric vehicle (EV) market with its new affordable midsize electric pickup, slated for production in 2027 and expected to hit the market as a 2028 model year vehicle[1][2][3]. This innovative vehicle, built on Ford's Universal EV platform, aims to blend affordability, spaciousness, strong performance, and practical utility[1][3][5].

Timeline

• Production start: 2027
• Market launch: Expected 2028 model year[1][3]

Platform and Design Features

The new midsize EV pickup is built on Ford’s new Universal EV platform, designed to support a variety of EVs and reduce complexity[4][5]. The platform boasts several benefits, including: - 20% fewer parts overall - 25% fewer fasteners - 40% fewer workstations needed in assembly - 15% faster assembly times - A wiring harness over 4,000 feet shorter and 10 kg lighter than Ford’s first-gen electric SUV[4][5]

The vehicle uses cobalt- and nickel-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) prismatic battery cells integrated as a structural floor sub-assembly. This design lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving handling, cabin quietness, and increasing interior space[4][5].

Vehicle Size and Interior

The footprint of the new electric pickup is roughly the size of the current gas-powered Ford Maverick compact pickup. Despite its compact size, the vehicle promises ample room for five adults, with interior space claimed to exceed that of a Toyota RAV4[1][3][5].

In addition to the spacious cabin, the electric pickup offers a front trunk ("frunk") similar to the F-150 Lightning, augmenting utility. The lockable truck bed enables secure storage of gear like surfboards without the need for external racks[1][3][5].

Performance and Driving Impression

Ford targets a 0-60 mph acceleration comparable to a Mustang EcoBoost twin-turbo (under 5 seconds)[1][4][5]. The instant torque from electric motors combined with chassis engineering aims for an engaging driving experience. The low center of gravity from battery placement delivers good handling and downforce[1][4][5].

Additional Notes

Ford has invested approximately $5 billion in EV plants, battery production, and the Universal EV platform to ensure affordability. The platform benefits from manufacturing efficiencies and vertical integration to cut costs about 20%, including leveraging tax credits and supply chain strategies[2][4][5].

The vehicle promises a lower total cost of ownership over five years compared to a three-year-old used Tesla Model Y[2][4][5]. More detailed specs like EPA range, battery capacity, and charging times will be announced closer to launch[2][4][5].

Ford is upgrading its BlueOval Battery Park in Michigan to produce advanced prismatic LFP batteries for the universal EV platform. The company is also investing $2 billion to upgrade its Louisville plant for EV production[2][4][5].

This midsize electric pickup, with its advanced Universal EV platform and innovative battery tech, is poised to make a significant impact in the EV market, offering a fun driving experience, ample space, strong performance, and practical utility[1][3][5]. Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, calls the development "Ford's Model T Moment."

For more updates on the new midsize EV truck and other car news, follow Mary Conway, a professional automotive journalist, at @MaryConwayMedia. Doug Field, Ford's chief EV, digital, and design officer, states that the new EV platform unlocks capabilities the industry has never seen, promising a vehicle that is not a stripped-down, old-school vehicle[2][4][5].

[1] Ford's New Midsize Electric Pickup: A Game-Changer for the Mass-Market EV Segment [2] Ford's New Electric Pickup Will Cost $30,000 and Offer 300 Miles of Range [3] Ford's New Electric Pickup Will Cost Less Than $30,000 and Have More Range Than a Tesla Model Y [4] Ford's New Electric Pickup: What We Know So Far [5] Ford's New Electric Pickup Will Be Affordable, Spacious, and Pack a Punch

Finance analysts predict that Ford's new midsize electric pickup, with its competitive pricing and lower total cost of ownership, could disrupt the automotive market, potentially influencing lifestyle choices and consumer spending in technology sectors as more individuals switch to electric vehicles for sports, leisure, and daily commuting.

With its innovative use of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) prismatic battery cells and advanced Universal EV platform, the new electric pickup could revolutionize the technology landscape in the automotive industry, setting a new standard for electric vehicle design and performance.

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