Automotive
Ford is doubling down on its commitment to American manufacturing and affordable electric vehicles with a major $5 billion investment across Kentucky and Michigan. The goal? Deliver a new midsize electric pickup starting at around $30,000, built with a reimagined production method that marks one of the company’s biggest manufacturing shifts since the days of the Model T.
CEO Jim Farley recently revealed that Ford’s strategy involves not just rolling out another electric truck, but reshaping how it’s made to drive down costs and increase efficiency. The new model will be built using what the company calls an assembly “tree,” replacing the traditional moving assembly line. Instead of sending the vehicle down one long conveyor belt, the truck will be assembled in three parts that come together toward the end. This approach promises faster build times, fewer workers on the line, and a significant cut in production costs.
Farley explained that the company’s pushback of some EV launches to 2028 is intentional. It reflects a smarter, more focused direction that emphasizes affordability, scaled growth, and reliance on U.S.-based production. It’s a clear departure from chasing range numbers or luxury benchmarks and instead zeroes in on value and accessibility.
The new electric truck will use prismatic lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries produced in Michigan. These batteries are more affordable than traditional lithium-ion packs, avoiding expensive materials like cobalt and nickel. They also serve as a structural element, doubling as the vehicle’s floor and helping to lower the center of gravity while increasing interior space.
Production will take place at Ford’s BlueOval Battery Park in Michigan and its Louisville plant in Kentucky. About 4,000 jobs are expected to be created across both sites, although some existing roles will shift or phase out as automation increases. These investments reflect Ford’s aim to keep production on American soil, rather than outsourcing to overseas facilities.
The vehicle itself is described as electric, fun to drive, and digitally advanced. It’s designed to appeal to everyday commuters, offering enough range for daily use and the ability to charge at home. Ford sees it as a practical and affordable EV solution that could significantly expand the electric truck market.
In fact, this moment ties directly to what we previously covered in our post, where we highlighted Ford’s plans to bring a $30,000 electric pickup to market by 2027. That piece pointed to what could become a pivotal turning point for the industry—and now those plans are becoming reality.
With a reengineered assembly process, domestically produced batteries, and a strong push for affordability, Ford is positioning itself for a new chapter. The company’s next electric truck might not just compete—it could change the conversation around what EVs can be for the average American buyer.
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Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
