Ford's new Ranger-size electric ute set to shake up Australia's ute market
The American giant said this could be its biggest turning point since the original Model T.
The ute will debut in the US with a starting price of approximately US$30,000 (AUD 46,000) - far below the cost of most EV utes on sale.
The US-built ute will be designed for global markets; however, Ford Australia says it's too early to confirm if the model will be sold locally.
Ford CEO Jim Farley said the new EV will match the acceleration of a Mustang EcoBoost capable of 0-96km in approximately 4.9 seconds, while offering passengers more space than a Toyota RAV4, plus smart storage solutions.
The company also said it will deliver a long driving range, DC fast charging, and enough vehicle-to-home power to run a house for six days.
The electric ute will be built at Ford's Louisville plant in Kentucky, backed by a US$2 billion (A$3bn) investment, alongside a US$3 billion (A$4.6bn) battery plant in Michigan.
It will use the new EV platform and Ford's new assembly tree production method.
Instead of one long production line, three parts of the vehicle are built separately, the front, rear and the battery and then brought together.
The new EV platform will use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery packs as part of the vehicle's structure, lowering the centre of gravity and increasing cabin space.
It will also be used across a variety of body styles.
From mid-2025, Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will push carmakers to cut emissions, especially in high-selling utes.
If Ford's electric ute makes it here, it will give Australian buyers, especially tradies, a far cheaper EV option than what's currently available.
Final specifications will be revealed closer to launch.
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