By Ford is prioritizing smaller and super affordable electric vehicles, including a Maverick-sized electric pickup truck. As part of this strategy, production of the F-150 Lightning’s successor and another full-size electric pickup has been pushed back.
The automaker will unveil what CEO Jim Farley has called a “Model T moment” on August 11 in Kentucky. Speaking to Bloomberg TV, Farley confirmed they will introduce a new platform for very low-cost EVs designed for urban use and commercial purposes.
Developed in California, this platform integrates the battery directly into the chassis. The first product is expected to be a compact electric pickup similar in size to today’s Maverick, with production planned for 2027. Rumors suggest it could revive the “Ranchero” name, previously used in the U.S. between 1957–1979 for a range of sedan-based pickups.
In 2028, a small electric SUV will follow. If plans go smoothly, the platform could underpin up to eight different models. All production will take place at Ford’s Louisville, Kentucky plant, which currently builds the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair. Both models will end production this year with no direct replacements.
To keep these small EVs affordable, the vehicles will be equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries produced at the new $3 billion BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall, Michigan. Expected to launch in 2026, the facility will be the first in the United States to produce LFP batteries. LFP cells are less energy-dense than nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cells but are significantly cheaper and more environmentally friendly.
According to car.news data, Ford’s new strategy comes at a time when price competition in the EV market is intensifying. By delaying larger models, the company aims to strengthen its position in the lower segment. As a result, the launch of the ‘T3’ full-size electric pickup has been postponed to 2028, along with U.S. production of the next-generation E-Transit van, which may still enter European production earlier.
Ford has changed its plans before. In 2024, it canceled its plan to produce a three-row large electric SUV. After sales of its Volkswagen-based Explorer and Capri EVs failed to meet expectations, the company reportedly approved the development of new internal combustion vehicles for Europe.
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