2026 Ford Fiesta successor to spearhead affordable EV family

Ford is secretly developing an all-new light hatchback – the same size as the previous Ford Fiesta – that will be the first member of an affordable EV family released from 2026.

To rival EVs from fast-growing Chinese brands like MG and BYD, the next-generation Ford Fiesta successor will sit on a new platform being developed under the watchful eye of former Tesla executive Alan Clarke, who was the lead engineer for the Model 3 and has a reputation for making high-profit, but low-cost, advanced EVs.

According to Britain’s Autocar, the pioneering all-new platform will also underpin the next Focus and the popular Puma SUV.

These three models will be positioned below the European Ford Explorer EV, the incoming Capri and the Mustang Mach E.

Unusually, considering its size, the first car to be based on the small EV platform will reportedly be a model launched in North America.

Insiders say Clarke is aiming to produce the world’s most efficient EV platform and has recruited engineers from Tesla, Rivian, Apple and F1 aerodynamicists to work on the program.

Powering the new small EVs will be Ford’s next-generation low-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries that will be even more durable than today and perform well in low temperatures.

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