Ford just dropped a bombshell that could reshape the auto industry with a new electric vehicle (EV) pickup truck.
According to The Daily Mail, Ford’s latest move, a mid-size EV pickup set for a 2027 release, marks a seismic shift in American manufacturing, with a focus on domestic production and innovative battery technology.
Let’s start at the beginning. Ford has been quietly working on this project since 2022, aiming to bring a game-changer to market. It’s a timeline that aligns with the industry average of five years to launch a new vehicle.
This isn’t just another EV. Ford is building this mid-size pickup on a cutting-edge, American-made battery platform at its Louisville, Kentucky, plant. The company is investing a hefty $2 billion to retool the factory and plans to hire 2,200 full-time workers.
What sets this truck apart? It’s the first from any automaker to rely primarily on US-sourced materials, slashing dependence on imported minerals often tied to China. This move follows Ford's production halts in June due to Chinese restrictions on critical mineral supplies.
The truck’s battery tech is equally impressive. Using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, it skips cobalt and nickel, delivering faster acceleration than a Mustang in a straight line. Plus, LFP batteries are cheaper, safer against fires, last longer, and rely on more eco-friendly mining.
Ford’s CEO Jim Farley isn’t holding back on the hype. “It represents the most radical change on how we design and build vehicles at Ford since the Model T,” he said.
But Farley also admits the uncertainty. “There are no guarantees with this project,” he cautioned. It’s a gamble with high stakes for Ford, especially after reporting a $1.3 billion loss on its current EV lineup. Analysts are intrigued but skeptical. “The new techniques sound great,” said David Whiston of Morningstar to the Daily Mail. He sees potential for faster assembly and higher output.
Yet, Whiston warns against over-optimism. “Until we can see the product though,” he added, “it’s all words.” Investors seem to share the doubt, as Ford’s stock dipped 0.5% after the announcement.
Competition is heating up, too. GM is working on similar battery tech, while Slate, backed by Jeff Bezos, plans a mid-$20,000 electric pickup, and Rivian, with Volkswagen’s $5 billion support, will launch lower-cost models in 2026. Ford’s $30,000 price tag may face pressure from these rivals rolling out cheaper EVs next year.
Back to the truck itself, Ford promises more passenger space than the 2025 Toyota RAV4. It’ll also feature Blue Cruise, the company’s latest highway self-driving tech. Rumors swirl that Ford might revive the Ranchero name—a mini truck that sold half a million units decades ago—though the company stays mum.
This project dovetails with President Trump’s push for more US manufacturing jobs. Ford’s commitment to domestic production and hiring could be seen as a victory for policies favoring American labor. Yet, it contrasts with Trump’s aversion to EVs and his recent move to end the $7,500 EV tax subsidy.
For investors and wealth-builders, Ford’s pivot raises questions. Is this a stock to watch or a risky bet given the EV losses and competitive landscape? Consider tracking Ford’s progress on this truck while diversifying into broader industrial or energy ETFs to hedge against sector volatility.
Ultimately, Ford’s EV gamble could redefine American manufacturing—or stumble under market pressures. Stay sharp, keep an eye on 2027, and remember: building wealth means betting on innovation, but never blindly. Let’s see if this “Model T moment” delivers.