Ford Shifts Gears: Embracing Hybrids Over Electric Vehicles with New Truck Lineup and Strategic Battery Moves

Ford has announced that it will introduce two additional electric truck models and increase its hybrid offerings. However, the company has decided to scale back on a battery-electric vehicle project, specifically a three-row electric SUV, in response to evolving market conditions for electric vehicles.

The car manufacturer stated that its updated strategy is focused on reducing costs, especially for electric vehicles as current purchasers are more budget-aware than the initial enthusiasts from past years.

The updated strategy also focuses on leveraging the growing interest in hybrid vehicles. As a result, there will be a decrease in the funds allocated to electric vehicle development, dropping from the current 40% of Ford's yearly investment budget to 30%.

Ford has announced a reshuffle in its upcoming electric vehicle lineup, with plans for a commercial van to begin production in Ohio from 2026, and the introduction of midsize and full-size electric pickups scheduled for 2027. The company has scrapped its earlier proposal for a three-row electric SUV that was supposed to hit the market in 2025. Despite having already poured $400 million into the development of the SUV, Ford anticipates that the total expense of altering its EV strategy could climb as high as $1.5 billion.

Ford is set to launch a midsize truck built on a budget-friendly electric vehicle framework, which was crafted by an innovative group in California. This truck will be equipped with Ford's advanced BlueCruise technology for driver assistance. The new platform will serve as the foundation for a variety of vehicles, both for personal use and commercial purposes, beginning with this midsize truck.

The upcoming large-scale pickup truck, known internally as Project T3, is set to succeed the F-150 Lightning. Its production is slated for Tennessee, and Ford's CEO Jim Farley has likened it to the "Millennium Falcon of pickup trucks." Although the launch was initially targeted for 2025, Ford announced on Wednesday that pushing back the release date will allow the company to capitalize on reduced battery expenses and additional financial benefits. This delay will also provide the market with extra time to adapt to electric vehicles.

Affordable batteries are crucial

Ford plans to implement a cost-effective battery strategy by manufacturing less expensive lithium iron phosphate batteries domestically. This approach will make them eligible for incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act. Additionally, on Wednesday, Ford announced the shift of the Mustang Mach-E battery production from Poland to the United States. This indicates that the model will continue to be produced and will maintain its qualification for the tax credits offered by the Inflation Reduction Act.

Ford has announced intentions to introduce hybrid models, particularly in larger vehicle categories where the cost of batteries continues to be an obstacle. The company has highlighted its focus on SUVs with three rows of seating, hinting at hybrid versions for models similar to the Explorer and Expedition.

Ford suggested that a hybrid variant might be included in the upcoming lineup of its F-Series Super Duty trucks, noting that the new series will provide various powertrain choices.

In the initial six months of 2025, Ford intends to provide new details regarding its strategies for electric vehicle integration.

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