Ford Delays Full-Size Electric Pickup, Van Launches to 2028

Ford is delaying the launch of its next-generation full-size electric pickup, known as Project T3, and the next-generation electric E-Transit van to 2028, postponing production originally planned for earlier years due to a strategic pivot towards smaller, more affordable electric vehicles (EVs). This shift responds to intensifying competition from Chinese automakers and evolving U.S. market demand, which favors lower-cost, smaller EVs over larger, expensive models with high-cost batteries. Ford is concurrently developing a mid-size electric pickup truck, expected by 2027, that will be smaller and cheaper than the F-150 Lightning, targeting buyers who find full-size electric trucks too large or costly. The company has established a new EV development hub in Long Beach, California, to focus on building a new low-cost EV platform to underpin several smaller vehicles, led by former Tesla director Alan Clarke. Despite delays, Ford emphasizes that current products like the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit continue to meet customer needs and that the automaker remains committed to profitability and market-responsive product launches under its Ford+ plan. CEO Jim Farley highlights that the U.S. EV market favors small vehicles for commuting, and Ford is adjusting its portfolio accordingly while managing losses in its EV division.