Ford postpones launch of new electric pickup truck and van, shifting focus towards smaller electric vehicles
Ford Shifts Focus to Smaller, More Affordable Electric Vehicles
Ford has announced a significant shift in its electric vehicle (EV) strategy, delaying the launch of its next-generation full-size electric pickup (Project T3) and the E-Transit van replacement to 2028. Instead, the automaker is focusing on the development of a new smaller, more affordable electric pickup, with a debut expected in 2027.
The delay in the deployment of the next-generation electric pickup and van is not due to financial or developmental concerns, but rather an effort to better align with market demand, profitability goals, and capital spending. Ford's CEO Jim Farley described the new smaller EV pickup as a potential "Model T moment" for the company, signaling a strategic pivot to address the demand for smaller, urban-friendly vehicles and commercial EVs that can be profitable.
The compact EV pickup, which is rumored to revive the "Ranchero" name, will be built on a newly developed Universal EV Platform. Designed for scalability and cost efficiency, the pickup is expected to start at under $30,000 and will be assembled at Ford’s Louisville plant.
| Vehicle | Original Launch Plans | Revised Launch Plans | Notes | |----------------------------|-------------------------|---------------------|----------------------------------------| | Project T3 full-size EV pickup | Initially by 2026-2027 | Delayed to 2028 | Shift to focus on smaller EVs | | Next-gen E-Transit van | Initially mid-2020s | Delayed to 2028 | Delayed alongside full-size pickup | | New smaller electric pickup | New for 2027 | On track for 2027 | Under $30k, compact, built on new platform, possibly named "Ranchero" |
This shift in strategy aims to address the softening sales and high costs of existing full-size models like the F-150 Lightning. By capitalizing on next-generation battery technology, Ford hopes to reduce costs while targeting vehicles that better meet current U.S. EV market needs. Ford's official announcement with more details is scheduled for August 11, 2025, coinciding with an event at their Louisville plant.
In addition to the smaller EV pickup, Ford has been working on a "skunkworks" project for the development of low-cost EVs. The details of the August 11 announcement are not yet fully disclosed, but it is expected to provide more insights into Ford's plans for the future of electric vehicles. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development in the world of automotive technology.
