Ford EV Announcement Aug 11 - livestream registration link

[Tran]

Apparently Ford's August 11 announcement isn't not going to be a public livestream webcast. But here's a link to register to watch the livestream:

https://www.f150lightningforum.com/...ment-livestream-register-to-watch-here.29866/

 

[BahamaTodd]

No vehicle shown. But it will be a midsize EV pickup starting at $30k. Production to start in 2027 in Kentucky.

https://www.f150lightningforum.com/...orm-assembly-process-and-midsize-truck.29977/

 

[Neil Nelson]

Competition is good and Slate is making Ford compete. Let's see what Ford comes up with.

 

[Doctors Do Little]

Here's a more detailed breakdown (GOOGLE AI):

• Affordable Platform:
  .
  Ford is developing a new, universal EV platform designed for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
  
  
• "Model T" Moment:
  .
  Ford CEO Jim Farley has described this new platform as a "Model T" moment for EVs, emphasizing a focus on streamlined manufacturing and affordability.
  
  
• Mid-Size Pickup Focus:
  .
  The first vehicle on this new platform will be a mid-size electric pickup, potentially taking design cues from the Ford Ranger.
  
  
• Ranger-Sized:
  .
  While the interior space will be comparable to a Toyota RAV4, the exterior dimensions will be similar to the Ford Maverick (a compact pickup).
  
  
• Simplified Manufacturing:
  .
  The new platform will feature fewer parts, a simplified wiring harness, and streamlined assembly processes, resulting in faster build times.

My question: how to fit Ranger in a Maverick? (shorten hood and bed?)

 

[cadblu]

Just watched the livestream. I’m very impressed with what Ford is promising for new technologies like virtual reality, AI, and ergonomic improvements on the assembly line. Although a little late to the party, Ford will be looking to draw customers away from Slate. I think Slate is keenly focused on what Ford is up to. Competition is good, and it’s the customer who benefits the most.

 

[5ohbrad]

It’s unfortunate that as good as it may be and cheap as Ford hopes to deliver it, their antiquated dealer network will ruin it with market adjustments. I have lost faith in their ability to deliver a quality product in recent years but still hope they can prove me wrong.

 

[Dorbiman]

It’s unfortunate that as good as it may be and cheap as Ford hopes to deliver it, their antiquated dealer network will ruin it with market adjustments. I have lost faith in their ability to deliver a quality product in recent years but still hope they can prove me wrong.

Yes, I expect to pay a few grand on top of whatever price they say it will be, before taking into account tax & title. I'm done playing that game.

 

[Doctors Do Little]

It’s unfortunate that as good as it may be and cheap as Ford hopes to deliver it, their antiquated dealer network will ruin it with market adjustments. I have lost faith in their ability to deliver a quality product in recent years but still hope they can prove me wrong.

100%

 

[cadblu]

Yes, I expect to pay a few grand on top of whatever price they say it will be, before taking into account tax & title. I'm done playing that game.

Which means, assuming all other things being equal, Slate has a strategic advantage over Ford since there is no dealer network.

 

[motorolas]

Ford To Build New $30K Midsize Electric Pickup In Louisville Kentucky https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabu...dsize-electric-pickup-in-louisville-kentucky/

Universal EV Platform - $5 billion to retool Louisville Assembly Plant in 2026 for release in 2027.

“If Ford is actually able to execute on its plan, the first product from this platform could be the death knell for Slate. ”

First vehicle to be mid-size EV pickup truck at ~200 inches long.

“At the moment, Ford is saying the new electric truck will have a starting price of about $30,000, placing it right between the $28,145 starting price of a Maverick and the $33,350 entry point for the mid-size Ranger.“

It’s Not a Slate. Ford’s $30,000 Electric Pickup Truck Won’t Be Stripped Out
https://insideevs.com/news/768646/ford-ev-pickup-not-like-slate/

“"This is not going to be a stripped-down, old-school vehicle as a path to low cost," said Ford's EV chief Doug Field at an event announcing the truck today. He didn't elaborate on that point any further, but it's clear he's talking about the Slate here, a truck that makes a point of being back-to-basics.”

 

[The Weatherman]

I took it that the electrical system (LV) will be a 48volt system. They talk about the reduction in weight of the wiring harness and this achieved via the fact that a higher voltage system can be run on a greatly reduced size of wire. That’s my speculation not actual comment from Ford.

 

[Doctors Do Little]

I took it that the electrical system (LV) will be a 48volt system. They talk about the reduction in weight of the wiring harness and this achieved via the fact that a higher voltage system can be run on a greatly reduced size of wire. That’s my speculation not actual comment from Ford.

Could be. Will be interesting to see what leaks out as far as specs over coming week. You'll be able to run over and check it out, though!

 

[Doctors Do Little]

Ford To Build New $30K Midsize Electric Pickup In Louisville Kentucky https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabu...dsize-electric-pickup-in-louisville-kentucky/

Universal EV Platform - $5 billion to retool Louisville Assembly Plant in 2026 for release in 2027.

“If Ford is actually able to execute on its plan, the first product from this platform could be the death knell for Slate. ”

First vehicle to be mid-size EV pickup truck at ~200 inches long.

“At the moment, Ford is saying the new electric truck will have a starting price of about $30,000, placing it right between the $28,145 starting price of a Maverick and the $33,350 entry point for the mid-size Ranger.“

$5B is crazy money, although I've been in that plant a few times. It needs to be retooled!

 

[MichaelZ]

I highly doubt this will be anything interesting. 30k is what brand new Mavericks cost (I just checked), so this is going to be like 38k minimum out the door, and for what? Another 4 door, 4 foot bed truck? No thanks.

 

[ScooterAsheville]

For those who didn't want the reveal - here is basically what Ford said. No opinion, just the facts as I remember them.

• A truck between the Ranger and Maverick in size.
• CY 2027 delivery - not specified when in the CY
• $30,000 for the base trim.
• "Long range".
• Painted.
• High tech and screens.
• Giga-castings to reduce parts count.
• Simplified zonal electrical architecture like Rivian
• Powers your house for a week.
• Outperforms a Mustang turbo.
• An existing dealer network for sales and support (we all hate dealers until we need them).

Now the opinion part.

What I really liked about the announcement was that Ford was very upfront that they were taking a risk. And that now they have to execute and deliver.

Content wise, I have a feeling Ford just announced a brilliantly successful vehicle. It's another knockout like my Maverick, the Bronco, etc (hate them if you like, but Ford still cannot build enough Mavericks).

That said, I have a feeling us hardcore small truck fans will still go for Slate or Telo - because they're small (Slate = 174", Telo = 152"). I know for me personally, it's the SMALL truck part of Slate I like. Not the cost. Not necessarily the BEV. We're each different in our wants and needs, but there is a community out there that wants SMALL trucks.

Now - can they (both Slate and Ford) deliver what they promised, when they promised it, at the price they promised?