Pickup Dreams Put on Hold
Ford’s highly anticipated electric pickup, known as Project T3, won’t hit the road anytime soon. Originally planned for 2026, then pushed to 2027, the truck is now delayed until 2028. Production will take place at the BlueOval City EV plant in Tennessee—just not for another three years.
The delay also affects Ford’s electric van lineup, with the next-gen E-Transit now rescheduled for 2028 at the Ohio Assembly Plant.
Why the Delay?
A company spokesperson said the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit continue to meet current demand, allowing Ford to adjust launch timing to market needs. The decision is part of the broader Ford+ plan, which aims to improve profitability by prioritizing vehicles customers want most right now.
A Pivot to Smaller, Cheaper EVs
Ford is betting big on affordable electric models. Earlier this week, the automaker opened a new EV Design Center in Long Beach, California, dedicated to developing an efficient, low-cost EV platform.
This new architecture will use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to keep prices competitive. The packs will be built in Michigan using licensed technology from China’s CATL—similar to GM’s recent battery sourcing strategy.
A Versatile Future
According to Lisa Drake, Ford’s VP of tech platform programs and EV systems, the upcoming midsize platform could support eight different body styles. That includes trucks, SUVs, crossovers, and possibly sedans.
Ford even filed a trademark for “Ranchero” earlier this month, hinting at a possible revival of the classic name for a midsize EV pickup.
Competing With Global Rivals
CEO Jim Farley says Ford’s goal is to match the pricing of top Chinese EV brands. He believes customers will prefer affordable, versatile EVs over high-priced electric crossovers.
In Farley’s words, Ford is “going back to its roots for another Model T moment.” More details on its new EV and platform are expected to be revealed on August 11.
For now, Ford’s pickup fans will have to wait—but they might be getting a whole lineup of budget-friendly EVs in the meantime.
