Cheaper Ford EVs
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Ford is postponing the production start of two planned electric models by two years: The new E-Transit and an all-electric full-size pickup are now scheduled to roll off the assembly line in 2028 instead of 2026/2027. This also affects the successor to the F-150 Lightning, which was to be built at the Blue Oval City plant (Tennessee). The E-Transit, originally planned for 2026 at the Ohio plant, is also delayed.
The reason is a strategic reorientation: Instead of high-volume models, Ford plans to offer smaller, more affordable electric cars on a simplified platform in the future. With this, the company is reacting to growing price pressure from Chinese manufacturers. "The market for pure electric cars in the USA is clear for us: small vehicles for commuters and city traffic," says CEO Jim Farley.
Existing models such as the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit will continue to be offered. Ford wants to flexibly adapt product launches to demand and profitability. The decision follows earlier cuts, such as the halt of a planned three-row electric SUV.
The background also includes high losses in the EV and software sector – Ford expects losses of up to 5.5 billion US dollars in 2025 – as well as high recall pressure. By focusing on smaller, more efficient models, the manufacturer aims to regain market share and trust. Whether this will affect the European model range is open; here, Ford recently disappointed fans with the discontinuation of popular models such as the Fiesta. The cheapest electric car in Germany, the Puma Gen-E, costs around 37,000 euros.