Ford has announced that its upcoming electric pickup truck, expected to be priced at approximately $30,000, will feature a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) option at launch. This development marks a significant upgrade from initial reports suggesting that the vehicle would only offer rear-wheel drive. The confirmation came from Doug Field, Ford’s head of electric vehicles, during an event in Louisville, Kentucky.
The dual-motor system will consist of a permanent-magnet motor powering the rear wheels and an induction motor driving the front axle. This configuration aims to enhance the vehicle’s performance, especially for customers in regions with challenging weather conditions or those seeking a more versatile driving experience. The introduction of AWD is expected to attract a broader range of buyers looking for an affordable electric truck.
In addition to the AWD option, Ford is set to offer multiple battery configurations for the electric pickup. While specific battery capacities have yet to be disclosed, the automaker has indicated that consumers will be able to select between a more budget-friendly option and a variant with a longer range. Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, expressed confidence in the new model’s capabilities, emphasizing that it will allow for energy export from its battery to power an entire household, a feature previously available in the discontinued F-150 Lightning.
Ford aims to keep production costs low by utilizing in-house motors, which Field claims will be the most affordable in the market. The automaker has not provided detailed specifications regarding the battery options, but it is anticipated that the lowest-priced model will utilize a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Ford’s plans indicate that this battery pack will be approximately 15% smaller than the one used in the Chinese-made BYD Atto electric crossover, which translates to around 51 kilowatt-hours of energy.
Ford’s new electric pickup is projected to enter production in 2024, although an official reveal date has not yet been announced. With the inclusion of various features and competitive pricing, the truck aims to challenge existing offerings in the electric vehicle market, particularly those from established competitors like BYD.
As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, Ford’s strategy reflects a commitment to making electric vehicles more accessible to a wider audience. The anticipated all-wheel drive option and multiple battery choices could position Ford favorably as it seeks to capture a larger share of the growing EV market.
