Ford is overhauling the design of electric vehicles, shrinking battery packs and dramatically reducing wiring to bring electric vehicle prices closer to those of traditional gasoline-powered cars. The strategy marks a major shift in the automaker’s approach to electrification, focusing less on maximizing battery size and more on improving overall efficiency and cost structure.
A new EV platform with a focus on efficiency
For years, car manufacturers have been striving for greater range by installing larger batteries. But batteries can account for up to 40% of an electric vehicle’s cost and make up a significant portion of its weight. Ford believes that simply expanding battery capacity is not the solution to making electric vehicles affordable to mainstream buyers.
Instead, the company is developing a new Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform that prioritizes efficiency at every level. Engineers save thousands of meters of cables, reduce the number of parts and simplify the electrical architecture. In some cases, Ford reduced cable length by about 4,000 feet, reducing weight and material costs.
In addition, the company is relying on zone power systems and 48-volt architectures, consolidating components and improving energy management. By improving aerodynamics and reducing the vehicle’s overall weight, Ford says it can maintain competitive range even with smaller battery packs.
Ford’s move comes at a critical time
While electric vehicle adoption is increasing, high upfront costs remain one of the biggest barriers to mass market adoption. Many consumers are reluctant to pay a premium over gasoline vehicles, especially when interest rates and economic uncertainty weigh on their purchasing decisions.
By making batteries smaller and reducing manufacturing complexity, Ford aims to lower sticker prices without sacrificing performance or ease of use. The company has spoken publicly about targeting a midsize electric pickup starting at about $30,000 — a price that would put it in direct competition with traditional gas-powered trucks.
This strategy could help close the cost gap between electric and internal combustion engine vehicles and accelerate adoption without relying heavily on government incentives. Smaller batteries also mean lighter vehicles, which can improve efficiency and handling while reducing strain on supply chains for critical battery materials.
For consumers, Ford’s approach could lead to cheaper electric vehicles that still offer practical range and everyday usability. Instead of aiming for 400-mile battery capacities that many drivers rarely need, Ford is focusing on optimizing efficiency so smaller packages can go further.
This means drivers could see the price of electric vehicles closer to comparable gasoline vehicles, while still benefiting from lower fuel and maintenance costs over time. Reduced complexity can also improve long-term reliability and simplify repairs.
In short, the shift is about delivering value – not just reach numbers
Ford plans to launch its first vehicles on the new UEV platform in 2027, starting with a midsize electric pickup. Additional models in various segments are expected to follow.
If successful, this technical rethink could transform the way the industry approaches electric vehicle design. Instead of competing with ever-larger batteries, automakers could focus on smarter architecture, weight reduction and system simplification as a path to affordability.
For Ford, the message is clear: The future of electric vehicles may not be bigger – it may be slimmer, lighter and significantly more cost-effective.
