The anticipation for Ford’s latest midsize electric pickup is palpable. As the automaker shifts gears from larger electric vehicles to more compact options, the streets might soon witness glimpses of this new contender.
Ford’s Strategic Shift to Smaller EVs
In a significant move, Ford has decided to halt its production of the electric F-150 Lightning and has shelved plans for a three-row SUV. Instead, it is channeling its efforts into crafting a range of smaller, budget-friendly electric vehicles. The forefront of this initiative is a midsize electric pickup, set to make its debut next year, promising more cabin space than a Toyota RAV4 and lower operating expenses compared to a Tesla Model Y.
Prototypes of this pickup are already in the testing phase, as revealed by Ford’s CFO, Sherry House, at the UBS Auto and Auto Tech Conference on June 3. The launch is slated for 2027.
According to Dave Tovar, a Ford spokesperson, while prototypes are being tested, they have not yet been put on public roads. However, these tests on Michigan streets are expected soon, suggesting that curious eyes might spot them in action.
Innovative Engineering and Design
Ford’s new Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform will serve as the foundation for this midsize pickup, aiming to reduce production costs while enhancing vehicle efficiency. Manufacturing advancements, such as megacasting—which Tesla and other companies employ—will allow for a drastic reduction in parts, from 146 in the Maverick to merely two in the new pickup.
Efficiency is further enhanced through aerodynamic innovations and smaller batteries. Remarkably, over half of the engineering team working on the truck’s aerodynamics boasts experience in Formula 1 racing. Ford’s research indicates that the new pickup offers 15% better aerodynamic efficiency than any current pickup, resulting in extended range and reduced costs.
Moreover, Ford is pioneering the use of prismatic lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries in the U.S., a design choice that promises to cut costs and increase interior space.
Production of the pickup will commence next year at Ford’s Louisville Assembly plant. Sherry House confirmed, “We’re on plan for our 2027 launch,” adding that the vehicle aims to compete not just with electric models but also with traditional gas-powered ones.
Market Context and Future Prospects
Currently, in the U.S., several new or updated electric vehicles are priced around $30,000 to $35,000, including the Chevy Bolt EV, Nissan LEAF, Toyota bZ, and Hyundai IONIQ 5. Ford’s upcoming midsize pickup, with its promise of more space and cost efficiency, could align perfectly with market demands.
However, Ford faces challenges in the electric vehicle market, with a significant drop in sales—down over 58% through May 2026. The company sold just 12,284 EVs in the first five months of 2026 compared to over 34,100 during the same period in the previous year. The introduction of the new UEV platform is crucial for Ford’s strategy moving forward.
Original Story at electrek.co