Ford is gambling on the success of a $30,000 EV truck. It rides on a universal platform that will carry multiple vehicles. However, Ford CEO Jim Farley admits it’s one of the most challenging projects he’s ever been involved with. 

Ford gambles on the success of a $30,000 EV truck 

The countdown is on as Ford develops a Universal EV platform. It’s set to underpin a $30,000 EV truck by 2027. The stakes are increasing as the next-generation electric architecture enters the next phase of production. 

It’s being developed to fight Chinese electric vehicles and high costs. Ford CEO Jim Farley shares that it’s a “uniquely American high-risk project.” Seven different vehicles could ride on the platform after the compact truck arrives. 

The automaker is working on prototypes as the production facility is renovated. Also, new parts are being developed and quoted. It could reset the way electric cars are built to correct everything that has gone wrong so far. 

According to Inside EVs, the $5 billion project could provide independence from Tesla and Rivian. The electric truck will be powered by new lithium iron phosphate batteries with 20% fewer parts than traditional vehicles to cut costs. 

But there’s no guarantee that everything will work as the project includes multiple new technologies. Many automakers have struggled against significant quality problems with new EV platforms. 

There are new workstation designs, suppliers, experimental approaches, and IT solutions. This arrives as EV sales were much lower than expected in 2025. Plus, the Ford F-150 Lightning was recently discontinued. 

Farley has repeatedly shared that Chinese models beat American options in terms of tech, costs, and profitability, and they could come to America soon.