Ford introduces new electric vehicle (EV) foundation, innovative battery, and commitment to affordable electric utility vehicle (ute)

Ford introduces new electric vehicle (EV) foundation, innovative battery, and commitment to affordable electric utility vehicle (ute)

Ford Unveils Affordable and Efficient Electric Vehicle Platform

Ford has introduced a new electric vehicle (EV) platform, named the Universal EV Platform, and a production system that aims to revolutionise the automotive industry by producing affordable EVs at scale. This innovative approach simplifies design and manufacturing processes, leading to lower production costs and more affordable vehicles.

One of the key innovations is the use of cobalt- and nickel-free prismatic lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. These batteries double as structural sub-assemblies, forming the vehicle’s floor, lowering the centre of gravity for improved handling, creating a quiet cabin, and freeing up significant interior space. The LFP batteries also deliver durability and further reduce costs by replacing more expensive battery chemistries.

The first model to be built on this platform will be a midsize electric pickup truck (or "ute"), scheduled for production in 2027 at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant. Although similar in footprint to the compact gas-powered Ford Maverick, this EV truck will offer more passenger room than a Toyota RAV4 and additional cargo space via a front trunk ("frunk") and its bed. Ford targets a starting price around $30,000, making it an affordable option in the EV market. Performance will be strong with the truck expected to accelerate 0-60 mph as quickly as a Mustang EcoBoost.

The new production system, the Ford Universal EV Production System, transforms the assembly line into an assembly tree. Three sub-assemblies run down their own lines simultaneously and are joined together at the end. This integration between the new production system and platform could mean that assembly of the midsize electric truck could be up to 40% faster than the current vehicles at Louisville Assembly Plant.

Inspiration for this approach comes from the Model T, as Ford aims to revolutionise affordability and accessibility by using platform and production efficiencies combined with smart battery integration to enable mass-market electric vehicles at a lower cost of ownership than a three-year-old used Tesla Model Y.

In summary, Ford’s Universal EV Platform and production system reduce complexity, streamline manufacturing, and use innovative battery-pack design to deliver affordable, spacious, and high-performance electric vehicles at scale starting in 2027.

Ford's new Universal EV Platform focuses on the automotive industry, aiming to revolutionize EV production. By introducing cobalt- and nickel-free prismatic lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, the platform offers cost savings and improved handling. The first vehicle to use this platform will be an electric midsize pickup truck scheduled for production in 2027, priced at approximately $30,000. This production process, named the Ford Universal EV Production System, could make assembly up to 40% faster. The inspiration for this approach stems from the Model T, with the goal to provide mass-market electric vehicles, offering affordability and accessibility similar to a three-year-old used Tesla Model Y. In essence, technology plays a crucial role in facilitating the transition to electric vehicles while maintaining a focus on lifestyle and finance.

Read also: