Ford delays all-new electric ute and other EVs

Ford has announced that it will slow the rollout of its next-generation electric vehicles, starting with an unspecified all-new EV pick-up that is that is now due in 2026 – a year later than originally planned.

It’s not clear whether this relates to the anticipated all-electric version of the Ford Ranger ute, a substantial update to the bigger Ford F-150 Lightning pick-up or another model.

A battery-powered three-row flagship SUV originally due for release in 2025 will also now be held back until 2027, with the company saying more time is needed for the EV market to mature.

The Blue Oval also said the delay will allow it to capitalise on emerging battery tech that would offer consumers better durability and range compared to today’s tech.

In the meantime, the US car giant will focus its resources on ramping up the number of hybrid models.

Despite the rethink, Ford has also announced it is developing a smaller, low-cost flexible EV platform that will underpin a number of different models – and will be “profitable”, the company says.

It’s not known if those smaller vehicles will be specifically aimed at European and Australian buyers as an alternative to the Volkswagen MEB-underpinned vehicles.

“As the number-two EV brand in the US for the past two years, we are committed to scaling a profitable EV business, using capital wisely and bringing to market the right gas, hybrid and fully electric vehicles at the right time,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley.

“Our breakthrough next-generation EVs will be new from the ground up and fully software-enabled, with ever-improving digital experiences and a multitude of potential services.”

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