Ford reshapes its global electric vehicle direction: Eight budget-friendly new models, headlined by a dual cab pickup truck, aimed at directly challenging the Chinese market.
Ford Unveils New Wave of Affordable Electric Vehicles
Ford has announced a new direction in electric vehicle (EV) production, with a focus on affordability and sustainability. The company's new offering, underpinned by the Ford Universal EV Platform and the Ford Universal Production System, is set to revolutionise the EV market.
Jim Farley, Ford's CEO, revealed the new lineup of EVs, which will include at least eight models, with the first being a mid-size dual cab ute named Ranchero. Expected to be on-sale in the USA in 2027, the Ranchero will be priced from $US30,000 ($46,000).
The Ranchero, along with other models, will utilise the innovative LFP battery pack. This battery pack is not just a power source, but also serves as the vehicle's floor, and is assembled with seats, consoles, and carpeting. The front and rear of the vehicle are assembled separately, and then combined with the structural battery to form the vehicle.
Doug Field, Ford's chief EV, digital and design officer, claims that with the same range, a third less battery is needed compared to a typical generation one electric vehicle. This battery, made of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) prismatic cells, is designed for space and weight savings, as well as cost reduction.
The new production system for the Ford EVs abandons the traditional assembly line and instead uses an 'assembly tree'. This new approach results in 40% fewer workstations dock-to-dock in the plant and a 15% faster assembly time. Large single-piece Tesla-like aluminium uni-castings replace dozens of smaller parts in the new production system, further contributing to cost savings and efficiency.
Ford's investment in this new EV direction is substantial. The company will invest $US2 billion in the refurbishment of its Louisville, Kentucky, assembly plant, which will be the home of the 'Ranchero' and other 'Universal' models. Additionally, Ford will invest a further $US3 billion in a battery plant in Michigan, manufacturing prismatic LFP battery cells.
This investment is expected to create or secure 4000 jobs across the two locations. The new production system dramatically improves ergonomics for assembly line workers, making the production process more efficient and less taxing.
Other models hinted at include two- and three-row SUVs, passenger cars, a people mover, and a commercial van. The new mid-size truck will also feature V2L capability, over the air updates, Ford's BlueCruise hands-free automated cruise control, and new technology features such as a frunk (under bonnet storage) and a lockable truck bed.
Ford's new EV direction aims to break the cycle of compliant cars and loss leaders that require financial support from the company. The goal is to create a vehicle that can sustain itself and have strong profits. With the Ford Universal EV Platform and the Ford Universal Production System, it seems that the company is well on its way to achieving this goal. At least some of these new EVs seem certain to come to Australia.
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