Ford has unveiled its new electric vehicle platform and production system. The Ford Universal EV Platform, developed with a $5 billion investment, will bring more affordable electric vehicles to market starting in 2027. As part of these investments, a mid-size electric pickup will be available with a starting price of $30,000.

Ford is coming with budget-friendly electric vehicles

The Ford Universal EV Platform was developed by a dedicated engineering team focused on efficiency and scalability. The platform has reduced the number of vehicle parts used by the platform by 20 percent, and fasteners by 25 percent. Furthermore, the number of workstations on the assembly line has been reduced by 40 percent. These innovations result in a 15 percent reduction in production time.

At the heart of the platform are cobalt-free and nickel-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) prismatic batteries. These batteries serve as a structural subassembly that forms the vehicle’s floor. This lowers the center of gravity, improves handling, and creates a quieter, more spacious interior. The first pickup model to utilize this platform will offer ample space and sports car performance. Storage space, including the front trunk, has been generously maintained.

The Ford Universal EV Production System utilizes the “assembly tree” concept instead of a traditional assembly line. In this method, the front, rear, and battery compartments of the vehicle are assembled simultaneously on separate lines and then assembled later.

The system, which will be implemented at the Louisville facility, uses large aluminum castings instead of dozens of smaller parts. This production model can speed assembly time by up to 40 percent compared to current models, a net increase of 15 percent.

With this investment, Ford is expected to create approximately 4,000 new jobs at facilities in Kentucky and Michigan. The new platform and production system will allow Ford to expand its electric vehicle lineup while reducing prices and reaching more customers.