Ford unveils $30,000 electric pickup to take on Chinese EV rivals

The new midsized electric truck promises performance, features, and a low price point.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Ford is investing $5 billion into a new 'Universal Platform' that will allow the automaker to build an entire range of affordable electric vehicles, including a $30,000 midsized electric pickup truck set to arrive next year. The truck, rumored to be called the 'Ranchero' or 'Ranger', will have around 20% fewer parts than similar vehicles, a 0-60 mph time under 4.5 seconds, and features like a frunk and lockable truck bed. Ford is betting big on this new EV platform to compete with emerging Chinese electric vehicle makers.

Why it matters

Ford's $30,000 electric pickup is a bold move to take on the growing threat of low-cost Chinese EV makers entering the US market. By rethinking the production process and using innovative technologies, Ford aims to deliver an affordable electric truck with strong performance and features. This could help Ford maintain its dominance in the lucrative truck segment as the industry transitions to EVs.

The details

The new electric pickup will be built on Ford's 'Universal Platform', which is designed to streamline manufacturing, reduce parts, and lower costs. It will use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries that are smaller and less expensive than the extended-range battery in the F-150 Lightning. Ford says the truck will offer more interior space than a Toyota RAV4, as well as a frunk and lockable truck bed. Performance is targeted at under 4.5 seconds 0-60 mph.

  • Ford announced plans for the 'Universal Platform' in August 2025.
  • The new $30,000 electric pickup is scheduled to arrive in 2027.

The players

Ford Motor Company

An American multinational automaker that is investing $5 billion into a new electric vehicle platform to compete with emerging Chinese EV makers.

Jim Farley

The CEO of Ford Motor Company, who revealed details about the upcoming $30,000 electric pickup truck.

Doug Field

Ford's electric vehicle (EV) head, who confirmed the new electric truck will not be a 'stripped-down' offering despite its low price point.

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What they’re saying

“An early peek at our brilliant team working on the Universal Electric Vehicle project - one of the most audacious and important projects in @Ford's history. American innovation is how we compete and win against China and the rest of the world.”

— Jim Farley, CEO, Ford Motor Company (X)

“It won't be a 'stripped-down' offering like you'd expect at its low asking price; it will even get Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving assistance features.”

— Doug Field, EV Head, Ford Motor Company (InsideEVs)

What’s next

Ford will release more detailed specifications for the new $30,000 electric pickup truck later this year ahead of its planned 2027 launch.

The takeaway

Ford's bold move to develop an affordable, high-performance electric pickup truck showcases the company's determination to fend off competition from Chinese EV makers and maintain its dominance in the lucrative truck segment as the industry transitions to electrification.