Ford delays next-gen electric pickup and E-Transit van to 2028, shifts focus to cheaper EVs

Ford’s big delay announcement

Ford confirmed it will delay its next-gen full-size electric pickup (successor to the F-150 Lightning, “T3”) and the next-gen E-Transit van to 2028.

The decision was made as part of a broader shift in strategy. Ford is now focusing more on developing smaller and more affordable electric models that are better suited to current market demands.

Original launch dates changed

The full-size electric pickup’s target moved from 2025 to 2027, and now to 2028. The next-gen E-Transit shifted from 2026 to 2028. Ford said it informed suppliers and employees in June 2025.

The next-generation E-Transit van was scheduled for 2026, but it will also be introduced in 2028. According to GMAuthority, Ford informed suppliers and employees about these changes earlier this year, ahead of the public announcement.

Why Ford is changing plans

Ford’s leadership says these delays will allow the company to redirect resources toward affordable electric models. With Chinese automakers lowering EV costs, competition in the market has grown more intense.

Larger electric trucks and vans are harder to sell at profitable prices in the current environment. Focusing on smaller, lower-cost EVs is intended to keep Ford competitive and meet shifting consumer preferences.

Focus on affordable EVs

Ford’s new Universal EV platform underpins a $30,000-target midsize electric pickup slated to reach customers in 2027, built in Louisville. These models are expected to have lower prices and be suited for short trips and city commuting.

Ford views this change as a more efficient use of its investments. By targeting affordability, the automaker hopes to maintain steady sales and reduce the financial risks of high-priced EVs.

The “Model T moment”

CEO Jim Farley called the Aug. 11, 2025, Kentucky event a “Model T moment” for Ford, previewing a new affordable EV platform. This reference points to the early 1900s Model T, which revolutionized vehicle production and ownership.

The event will focus on unveiling a new electric vehicle platform. This platform will support multiple smaller, cost-effective electric vehicles designed for today’s evolving automotive market.

BlueOval City’s role

The delayed electric pickup is planned for production at BlueOval City in Tennessee, a facility designed for large-scale output. BlueOval City is planned for up to 500,000 trucks/year at full capacity, with prototype builds in 2027 ahead of 2028 production.

The site will also house a battery manufacturing operation, though its timeline may be adjusted based on demand.

E-Transit’s future

The current E-Transit van is widely used by businesses for delivery and service purposes. Its next-generation version will now be built at Ford’s Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake starting in 2028.

Ford intends to use the extra time to update its design and technology. The delay also allows the company to improve production efficiency and reduce costs before launching the upgraded model.

Lessons from past delays

Both the electric truck and the van have faced multiple delays since they were first announced. According to Electrek, Ford says these adjustments are necessary to control production costs and improve product quality.

The company believes taking more time now will help create longer-lasting, better-performing vehicles. This approach also reduces the risk of launching models that are too expensive or not in demand.

Current models still selling

Ford points out that the existing F-150 Lightning and E-Transit are still meeting the needs of today’s customers. There is no urgent pressure to replace them immediately, as both remain in demand.

Many business clients continue to purchase the E-Transit for commercial use. Keeping these models in production longer also reduces stress on supply chains and manufacturing operations.

A shift in U.S. EV demand

Market research shows that many American EV buyers prefer smaller, more affordable models. These vehicles are often used for daily commuting or running local errands, not extended road trips.

Larger EVs are more expensive and face slower sales growth in the current climate. Ford is adapting its future plans to focus on the segments where customer interest is strongest.

The new EV platform

Ford is developing a dedicated platform that will serve as the foundation for several new electric models. This strategy reduces costs by allowing multiple vehicles to share components and systems.

The first production model on this platform is expected to launch in 2027. It will likely be a smaller pickup truck designed for both affordability and efficiency.

The midsize electric pickup

Ford filed a U.S. trademark for “Ranchero” in August 2025; no official name has been announced for the midsize EV pickup. This truck will be fully electric and priced lower than larger electric pickups like the F-150 Lightning.

The design will target customers looking for practicality and lower ownership costs. Production is planned to begin before the delayed full-size electric models are released.

Pressure from global competition

Chinese automakers have significantly lowered the cost of producing electric vehicles, increasing competition worldwide. Their ability to offer lower prices is challenging U.S. automakers, including Ford.

By concentrating on smaller EVs, Ford aims to stay competitive against these rivals. The shift helps the company react more quickly to changes in global EV demand and pricing trends.

Cost challenges for Ford

According to Reuters, Ford’s electric vehicle and software divisions are expected to post losses of up to $5.5 billion in 2025. High production and material costs have made large EVs more difficult to produce profitably.

Shifting focus to simpler, smaller models could improve financial performance. This change also involves cutting back on unnecessary features that raise manufacturing expenses.

Retooling plants for the future

Ford will invest $2B to retool the Louisville Assembly Plant to build the midsize EV pickup on its new platform, with 2027 launch timing.

It currently produces gasoline-powered models but will transition to EV manufacturing in the future. These upgrades are part of Ford’s long-term plan to expand its electric vehicle lineup.

Under $30K? The best affordable cars you can buy in 2025 are worth checking out for anyone on a budget. Click through to see which models give you the most value for your money.

Lessons from canceled models

In 2024, Ford canceled a planned three-row electric SUV tied to Oakville and shifted its strategy toward hybrids in that segment. These models were costly to develop and faced limited customer demand.

The decision showed Ford’s willingness to adapt its plans based on market conditions. Resources from those projects have been redirected toward smaller, higher-volume electric vehicles.

Jay Leno calls Ford’s new Mustang GTD a total game-changer, and it’s easy to see why. Keep reading to discover what makes this car stand out from the rest.

Ford’s latest EV delay has sparked debate among drivers and industry watchers alike. What’s your take, smart strategy or missed opportunity? Share your thoughts below.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.