ford has released sketches showing the outline of its new electric car, which is expected to be the same approximate size as a Ranger.
Demonstrating its superior aerodynamics compared to conventional models in the segment, the upcoming electric ute features a more rounded, teardrop-style passenger compartment that helps direct stabilized airflow to the rear of the vehicle, improving efficiency and range.
While the graphics appear to give the vehicle the silhouette of a slanted hatchback coupe SUV, it is believed that the model will come with a traditional bathtub.
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Along with other body improvements, Ford says the changes would increase range by around 15 percent – or 80 kilometers more – if these aerodynamic improvements were applied to what is currently the most efficient petrol-powered ute in the segment.
In the accompanying video, a snapshot shows what appear to be early concept sketches of the electric car – one shows high side panels for the tub, while others have angled rear windows, similar to a sedan.
As Ford becomes Red Bull Racing’s powertrain supplier, the company says its experience in Formula 1 is helping to shape its development approach.
“To bring our new midsize electric powertrain to life, we took inspiration not only from the automotive industry, but also from the race track,” said Saleem Mert, senior manager of Advanced EV Aerodynamics at Ford.
“By adapting a development cycle inspired by Formula 1, we have shifted our focus to a ‘fail fast, learn faster’ mentality.”
Instead of using a wind tunnel toward the end of the development process to confirm the drag coefficient of their vehicles, the team instead swapped out various 3D printed parts on a model while it was in the wind tunnel.
“We used the wind tunnel as a development tool when designers were just starting to put pen to paper and work with the urgency of a race team pit crew.”
Based on Ford’s new Universal Electric Vehicle platform, the US auto giant is targeting a price for the new battery-powered small car around US$30,000 or A$45,000, hoping to make it affordable and accessible to more buyers.
According to Ford, the vehicle will cost “approximately the same as the Model T, adjusted for inflation.”
The inspiration for the UEV’s name came from the Model T – of which more than 15 million were produced between 1908 and 1927 – which became known as the “universal car”.
“It will be as fast as a Mustang EcoBoost and offer more passengers than a 2025 Toyota RAV4 – along with a cargo bed, smart cargo and trunk solutions,” Ford President and CEO Jim Farley said in making the announcement.
If that’s true, the electric ute could sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just under five seconds.
While the larger electric F-150 Lightning was recently discontinued – a new range-extender EV version is in the works – it’s not clear whether the “mid-size” ute will be called the Ranger Lightning or whether it will be known by a different model name.
Trademark documents show Ford registered the Ranchero name – an older model that was similar to Falcon utes sold in Australia.
Ford Australia is due to launch in the US in 2027 and has so far remained tight-lipped about whether the electric ute will be added to the local lineup.
MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger showroom
