Earlier this year, it was revealed that Ford has been developing a low-cost electric vehicle (EV) platform in total secrecy for the past few years. Initially, the first vehicle on this platform was rumored to be a $25,000 (later adjusted to $30,000) crossover set to launch in late 2026, followed by a compact pickup and a dedicated rideshare vehicle. These vehicles were expected to be built at the Louisville Assembly plant, which currently produces the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair. However, recent developments indicate that these plans have changed significantly.
Ford has now announced that the first vehicle on this new platform will be a mid-sized electric pickup, set to launch in 2027. The automaker described this upcoming vehicle as one designed for customers who want “more for their money – more range, more utility, more usability.” Although Ford did not explicitly name this vehicle as the Ford Ranger EV, it seems highly likely. The current Ranger is Ford’s only mid-size pickup, making it the prime candidate for this new electric model.
Speculation surrounding a Ford Ranger EV has been building for years, with some rumors suggesting its launch could happen before 2030. The Ranger is due for a mid-cycle refresh in 2026, and there are also talks of a more comprehensive redesign in 2029 or 2030. These updates could coincide with the introduction of an all-electric version of the pickup, further supporting the likelihood that the Ranger EV will be the first vehicle on Ford’s new low-cost platform.
In addition to the potential Ranger EV, Ford recently debuted a plug-in hybrid version of the Ranger for select global markets. This model is expected to arrive in the U.S. in the near future. Ford has committed to offering hybrid powertrain options across its entire internal combustion engine (ICE) lineup by 2030, making the electrification of the Ranger inevitable.
As Ford continues to advance its electrification strategy, the introduction of the Ranger EV in 2027 marks a significant milestone. This new electric pickup promises to offer more range, utility, and usability at an affordable price point, positioning it as a key player in the future of electric vehicles.
