Ford has been quite cautious of its take on the EV conversion. But that doesn't make them subtle by any means! The Ford e-Transit is their first-ever entrance into the commercial EV space, with the launch slated for late 2021. Their first-ever EV that has been developed from the ground up is the Ford Mustang Mach E, and it's making waves across the world.
However, it clearly received quite a lot of criticism, as using such an iconic name for an EV was not loved by many. But it has actually grown quite well, and the Mustang-badged crossover is been revered for the impressive package that it is. The latest entrance is, again, a revival of an iconic nameplate - the F-150 Lightning. This name was given to the pinnacle of performance trucking in the early 2000s.
And yet again, it has been bestowed to its worthy successor, in an EV. The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning takes the bold step of embracing electrification and also adding a slew of impressive technology features, that seem to make the transition quite seamless. With the current EV portfolio of Ford, it is quite evident, that more iconic nameplates will receive the EV treatment as well. In fact Ford has already revealed their plans to us.
Ford plans to invest $30 billion in the development of two new platforms, an IonBoost battery program, connectivity perks, and more iconic EV conversions with the Ford+ program.
Ford's Current Line-Up Is Quite Promising And Widespread
Ford has been chiming in the electric revolution quite silently for a long time now. They started off with the e-Transit, which is slated to hit the roads by late-2021. This best-selling cargo van from Ford continues to be a well-rounded workhorse even with the electric heart. Technology has been given due importance with connectivity and hauling capabilities. The electric motor setup churns out 266 HP and 317 lb-ft of torque and the 2022 Ford e-Transit starts with an MSRP of $45,000.
The next shocker in Ford's EV line-up is the Ford Mustang Mach-E, and it is nothing like the Mustang we know. It is all-electric, and more importantly a crossover. Despite being something that is outright blasphemous, the Mustang Mach-E is quite a compelling option among EVs. And we must say that Ford's gamble with emotions played quite fine. The latest addition is the most powerful of the line-up: Ford Mustang Mach-E GT with 480 horses and a 0-60 MPH time of under 3 seconds. Well, judging a book by its cover has never fared well!
The latest addition is the Ford F-150 Lightning. Yet another iconic name that has been given the bold EV treatment. But we are happy to say that, for this Lightning, performance speaks, just like it did for its predecessor. It comes with AWD as standard and the most powerful iteration churns out an impressive 565 HP and 775 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, this is the fastest F-150 to date with 0-60 MPH run in just 4.4 seconds.
$30 Billion For The Next Five Years: Ford Plans For 100% Electrification by 2035
Ford plans to slowly convert its widespread automobile empire into zero-emission electric vehicles. And for this very reason, Ford has increased its investment in the EV sector by $8 billion, with the current value at $30 billion for the next 5 years. This has been undertaken with the target of making 40 % of their total vehicular output all-electric by 2030 and eventually achieve a 100 % zero-emission portfolio by 2035.
More Iconic Names Will Be Electrified: Expect Some Interesting Outcomes
With the current trend, we are pretty sure that more iconic nameplates will be given the EV treatment in the future. It sure is a bold move to do, but Ford has clearly showcased its potential with the Ford Mustang Mach-E. This has also instilled confidence among consumers to embrace the revolution of the iconic cars from Ford. After the slow and steady transformation of the F-150 line-up to electric, Ford has planned on giving a bunch of prominent names the EV treatment, with the Explorer being next in line. The Lincoln EV will join in soon after, along with high possibilities of the Bronco going electric, soon after.
Two New Platforms In The Works: Ford Partners With Volkswagen For Europe
The Ford F-150 Lighting used an all-new frame that has been tweaked to accommodate an independent rear suspension and more stress points. This helps the latest electric truck to be much more nimble, both on the road and off it. Ford is also working on 2 new platforms - AWD and RWD which are expected to underpin its future offerings.
Modularity is the key as these two platforms will cater to SUVs, sedans, and even commercial offerings. Profitability and lesser use of resources are the reasons for such conservative measures, which also includes the fact that Ford has partnered with Volkswagen to use their MEB platform, for the European market.
Solid-State Batteries Are The Future: Ford Plans For Cheaper And Long-Range Battery Packs
Batteries are one of the most crucial contributors to the steep pricing of EVs. Here is where Ford's IonBoost battery program can be a game-changer. This aims to provide low-cost solid-state batteries that are smaller and has more range than the current Li-Ion setup. Commercial vehicles will be the first to utilize this by 2030. With further improvements, this tech would make its way to passenger vehicles as well. Apart from this Ford has also joined hands with the Korean company - SK Innovation to form BlueOvalSK.
This has also sprouted a new 'Ion Park' that will help enhance Ford's battery technologies. All of these feats have been cumulated by Ford into the 'Ford+' program. They have given due importance to make this strategy consumer-friendly and make the transition known and acceptable to the general public in a simplified and trust-retaining manner.
Sources: Media.ford.com, Moneycontrol.com, Autocarindia.com, Observer.com