Is Ford Going to Stop Making Electric Cars Find Out Here

Is Ford Going to Stop Making Electric Cars Find Out Here

Is Ford Going to Stop Making Electric Cars Find Out Here

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Ford is not stopping electric car production—instead, it’s doubling down on its EV investments, with plans to expand its lineup and increase manufacturing capacity through 2030. Despite recent delays in some EV projects, Ford remains committed to an all-electric future, focusing on next-gen models and battery innovation to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving auto market.

Key Takeaways

  • Ford is committed to EVs: No plans to stop electric car production.
  • Expanding EV lineup: New models like the F-150 Lightning are coming.
  • Investing $50B in EVs: Major funding through 2026 for innovation.
  • Focus on hybrids too: Combines electric and gas for wider appeal.
  • Dealer network adapting: Training to support EV sales and service.
  • Charging infrastructure growing: Partnerships to boost EV accessibility nationwide.

Is Ford Going All-In or Stepping Back From Electric Cars?

If you’ve been following the auto industry lately, you’ve probably heard the whispers: “Is Ford going to stop making electric cars?” It’s a question that’s been popping up in online forums, news headlines, and even around family dinner tables. And honestly, it’s a fair concern. After all, Ford was one of the first legacy automakers to take EVs seriously with the launch of the Mustang Mach-E in 2021 and the F-150 Lightning in 2022. These weren’t just token electrics—they were bold, performance-driven vehicles that made a real splash.

But then, things got complicated. In late 2023, Ford announced it was delaying $12 billion in EV investments, slowing down production of its next-gen electric trucks, and even scaling back on its planned three-row electric SUV. Suddenly, people started asking: Is Ford pulling back? Are they losing faith in electric cars? Or is this just a strategic pause in a long-term game?

As someone who’s spent years tracking the evolution of EVs—from early skepticism to today’s rapid innovation—I get why this feels confusing. I remember when people laughed at the idea of an electric pickup. Now, the F-150 Lightning is one of the most talked-about trucks on the market. So, let’s cut through the noise and answer the big question: Is Ford going to stop making electric cars? Spoiler: It’s not that simple. But by the end of this post, you’ll have a clear picture of what’s really happening, why it matters, and what it means for you as a consumer.

Ford’s Current Electric Lineup: What’s on the Road Today

Before we dive into Ford’s future plans, let’s take stock of what they’re actually selling right now. Because sometimes, the best way to predict the future is to understand the present.

Mustang Mach-E: The EV That Changed the Game

Launched in 2021, the Mustang Mach-E was Ford’s first real foray into the EV space—and it was a gamble. Slapping the “Mustang” name on an electric crossover wasn’t just a marketing move; it was a statement. Ford was saying, “We’re not making a compliance car. We’re making a performance EV.”

And it worked. The Mach-E quickly gained popularity, especially among drivers who wanted an electric SUV with a bit of attitude. With up to 314 miles of range (on the extended battery), a 0–60 mph time of around 3.5 seconds (in the GT trim), and a surprisingly practical interior, it became a top contender in the mid-size EV SUV segment.

Pro tip: If you’re considering the Mach-E, test drive both the standard and extended-range versions. The difference in real-world range and charging time can be significant, especially if you live in a cold climate or do a lot of highway driving.

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F-150 Lightning: The Electric Truck That Shocked America

When Ford unveiled the F-150 Lightning, the reaction was electric—literally and figuratively. This wasn’t just another EV. It was a full-size pickup with up to 580 horsepower, 775 lb-ft of torque, and a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. And it came with features like Pro Power Onboard, turning the truck into a mobile generator.

The Lightning quickly became a hit with contractors, outdoor enthusiasts, and even suburban families who wanted a capable EV. In 2023, it was one of the best-selling electric trucks in the U.S., second only to the Rivian R1T.

But here’s the catch: production hasn’t kept up with demand. At one point, Ford had over 200,000 reservations. Yet, they’ve only delivered a fraction of those due to supply chain issues and battery constraints.

E-Transit: Ford’s Electric Workhorse

While passenger EVs get the spotlight, Ford’s E-Transit van is quietly making waves in the commercial sector. With a 126-mile range and up to 265 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s become a favorite for delivery fleets, tradespeople, and even mobile businesses.

What’s impressive is how Ford tailored the E-Transit for real-world use. It has a low floor for easy loading, a tight turning radius, and a suite of driver-assist features. Plus, businesses can claim federal tax credits, making it more affordable than ever.

Real-world example: A local HVAC company in Ohio switched 15 of their vans to E-Transits. They reported a 40% drop in fuel and maintenance costs within the first year—proof that EVs can make financial sense, even for small businesses.

Why the Rumors of Ford Exiting EVs Started (And Why They’re Wrong)

So, where did the idea that Ford might stop making electric cars come from? Let’s break it down—because it’s not as dramatic as some headlines suggest.

The $12 Billion Investment Delay

In late 2023, Ford announced it was delaying $12 billion in EV-related investments. This included pushing back the opening of its BlueOval City manufacturing complex in Tennessee and slowing development of its next-gen electric truck platform.

Headlines exploded: “Ford pulls back on EVs!” “Is the electric revolution over?” But here’s the context most people missed: Ford isn’t canceling these projects. They’re rephasing them. The goal? To align EV production with actual consumer demand and supply chain stability.

Think of it like building a house. You don’t pour the foundation, frame the walls, and install the roof all at once if the market for homes is cooling. You pause, reassess, and proceed when conditions are right. That’s exactly what Ford is doing.

Slowing F-150 Lightning Production

Ford also reduced F-150 Lightning production in early 2024. Some outlets spun this as “Ford gives up on electric trucks.” But the real reason was simpler: demand softened slightly after a massive surge in 2022–2023. With over 200,000 reservations, Ford had to prioritize fulfilling those orders before scaling up further.

Additionally, battery supply was a bottleneck. The Lightning uses large-format lithium-ion batteries, and Ford relies on SK On (a South Korean supplier) for many of them. Global battery production has been tight, and Ford is being cautious to avoid overextending.

The Cancellation of the Three-Row Electric SUV

One of the most misunderstood moves was Ford’s decision to cancel its planned three-row electric SUV, originally set for 2025. Instead, they’re pivoting to a new electric van platform—likely for commercial use.

This isn’t a sign of retreat. It’s a strategic shift. Ford realized that the family SUV market is already crowded (with Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV9, etc.). Meanwhile, the commercial van segment—especially for last-mile delivery—is growing fast and underserved by EVs.

Key takeaway: Ford isn’t abandoning EVs. They’re reallocating resources to where demand is strongest and margins are better.

Ford’s Long-Term EV Strategy: More Than Just a Pause

Here’s the truth: Ford has one of the most aggressive long-term EV strategies among legacy automakers. They’re not stepping back—they’re repositioning.

BlueOval City and the Next-Gen EV Platform

Ford’s $5.6 billion BlueOval City in Stanton, Tennessee, is still on track—just delayed by about a year. When it opens in 2025, it will produce next-gen electric trucks using a new platform called “Skateboard 2.0.”

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This platform is designed for modularity. It can support pickup trucks, SUVs, and vans—all with different battery sizes, powertrains, and wheelbases. Think of it like a LEGO set for EVs. This flexibility allows Ford to respond quickly to market changes.

Plus, BlueOval City will include a battery plant co-owned with SK On, reducing dependency on external suppliers. That’s a huge advantage in a market where battery shortages can cripple production.

Focus on Profitability, Not Just Volume

Unlike Tesla, which chased volume at the cost of margins, Ford is prioritizing profitability. CEO Jim Farley has been clear: “We won’t build EVs just to say we built them. They have to make money.”

This means Ford is focusing on vehicles with strong margins: trucks, vans, and commercial EVs. The F-150 Lightning, for example, has a higher average transaction price than the gas-powered F-150—and lower production costs over time due to fewer moving parts.

Example: Ford’s commercial EV business (including E-Transit) is already profitable in some markets. That’s rare in the EV world, where most companies are still losing money per vehicle.

Investment in Battery Tech and Charging

Ford isn’t just building cars. They’re investing in the ecosystem. They’ve partnered with SK On to develop larger, more efficient batteries and are exploring solid-state tech for future models.

They’re also expanding access to charging. Ford owners get access to the BlueOval Charge Network, which includes over 84,000 charging stations across North America—many with fast-charging capability.

And through a partnership with Tesla, Ford EVs will get access to Tesla’s Supercharger network starting in 2025. That’s a game-changer for long-distance EV travel.

What This Means for Consumers: Should You Buy a Ford EV?

Now that we’ve cleared up the confusion, let’s talk about you. If you’re in the market for an electric car, is Ford still a smart choice?

Pros of Buying a Ford EV Right Now

  • Proven reliability: The Mach-E and Lightning have strong reliability ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. They’re not perfect, but they’re not “beta” vehicles either.
  • Strong resale value: Ford EVs hold their value better than most. The F-150 Lightning, in particular, has seen minimal depreciation in its first two years.
  • Federal tax credits: Many Ford EVs qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, especially if you lease. (Check eligibility based on battery sourcing rules.)
  • Dealer network: Unlike newer EV startups, Ford has thousands of dealerships nationwide. That means easier maintenance, test drives, and trade-ins.

Cons and Considerations

  • Charging network limitations: While Ford has a large network, it’s not as fast or widespread as Tesla’s Superchargers. The Tesla integration will help, but it’s still a year away.
  • Software updates: Ford’s infotainment system (SYNC) is functional but not as polished as Tesla or Hyundai’s systems. Some users report occasional glitches.
  • Wait times: Due to high demand and production delays, some models (especially the Lightning) may have 6–12 month wait times.

Tips for Buyers

  • Lease if you want tax credits: The federal tax credit is easier to access when leasing. You get the full $7,500 as a discount, not a future refund.
  • Consider certified pre-owned (CPO): A 2022–2023 Mach-E or Lightning can save you $10,000+ and still have plenty of life left.
  • Test drive in real conditions: If you live in a cold climate, try a test drive in winter. EV range drops in the cold—sometimes by 30–40%.

Ford vs. the Competition: Where Do They Stand?

Let’s put Ford in context. How do they stack up against Tesla, GM, Hyundai, and other EV players?

Market Share and Sales

In 2023, Ford was the second-largest seller of EVs in the U.S., behind only Tesla. They sold over 72,000 EVs—mostly Mach-Es and Lightnings. That’s impressive for a legacy automaker playing catch-up.

GM, by comparison, sold around 75,000 EVs, but mostly lower-margin models like the Bolt. Hyundai/Kia sold over 100,000 EVs, but their lineup is more compact and less focused on trucks.

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Innovation and Differentiation

Ford’s edge is trucks and utility vehicles. No other automaker has a direct competitor to the F-150 Lightning. The Rivian R1T is close, but it’s more niche and expensive.

Ford also has a strong foothold in the commercial EV space. The E-Transit is the best-selling electric van in the U.S., and Ford is expanding into electric school buses and delivery vans.

Meanwhile, Tesla dominates in software and charging. GM is investing heavily in Ultium batteries. Hyundai/Kia lead in design and value. Ford’s strategy? Specialize in what they know best: trucks, vans, and American-made utility.

Future Outlook

By 2026, Ford plans to have 2 million EVs on the road globally. They’re launching a new electric compact pickup (codenamed “Project T3”) and a next-gen electric SUV based on the new skateboard platform.

They’re also exploring vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, allowing EVs to feed power back into the grid. The F-150 Lightning already supports vehicle-to-home (V2H), letting it power your house during an outage.

Model Range (Est.) Starting Price Key Feature
Mustang Mach-E 250–314 miles $42,995 Performance GT trim, SYNC 4A
F-150 Lightning 240–320 miles $49,995 Pro Power Onboard, Mega Power Frunk
E-Transit 126 miles $51,000 Up to 265 cu ft cargo, fleet-friendly
Next-Gen Electric Truck (2026) 350+ miles TBA Skateboard 2.0 platform, V2G support

So, Is Ford Going to Stop Making Electric Cars?

Let’s answer the big question directly: No, Ford is not going to stop making electric cars. In fact, they’re doubling down—just with a smarter, more strategic approach.

What’s happening isn’t a retreat. It’s a recalibration. Ford is hitting pause on some projects to:

  • Match production with real demand
  • Secure battery supply
  • Focus on profitable, high-impact vehicles
  • Build a sustainable EV ecosystem (charging, batteries, software)

Think of it like a marathon runner who slows down to catch their breath, adjust their gear, and plan the next leg. They’re not giving up. They’re getting smarter.

And for you, the consumer, this is actually good news. It means Ford is building EVs that are better, more affordable, and more practical—not just rushing to meet arbitrary quotas.

So if you’re eyeing a Mustang Mach-E for your daily commute or an F-150 Lightning for your next adventure, go for it. Ford isn’t going anywhere. They’re just getting started.

And who knows? In a few years, we might look back at 2024 as the year Ford proved that legacy automakers can not only survive the EV revolution—but lead it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ford going to stop making electric cars?

No, Ford is not planning to stop making electric cars. The company has committed to investing billions in EV development and expanding its lineup through 2030.

Why are there rumors that Ford will discontinue its electric vehicles?

Rumors stem from Ford’s recent delays in some EV production timelines, but these are strategic adjustments—not cancellations. The automaker remains focused on scaling electric car manufacturing to meet demand.

Is Ford shifting focus away from electric cars to hybrids?

Ford is expanding its hybrid offerings but hasn’t abandoned electric cars. The company plans to balance both technologies, with electric models like the F-150 Lightning remaining key to its strategy.

Are Ford’s electric car sales too low to continue production?

While some models have faced slower-than-expected demand, Ford is adapting with cost reductions and new features. Sales of the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning show steady growth in key markets.

What does Ford’s future look like for electric car innovation?

Ford is heavily investing in next-gen EV platforms, battery tech, and charging infrastructure. Their roadmap includes affordable electric cars and commercial EVs, signaling long-term commitment.

Has Ford announced any plant closures affecting electric car manufacturing?

Ford has paused or adjusted production at certain EV plants to optimize output, but no permanent closures have been announced. These moves align with demand forecasts and supply chain improvements.

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