When Will Ford Bring Electric Cars to USA in 2019 and What to Expect

Ford delayed its major electric vehicle push in the USA until 2020, but in 2019 it began teasing the upcoming Mustang Mach-E—its first all-electric SUV—marking a bold step into the EV market. While no full EVs launched stateside in 2019, Ford laid the groundwork with investments in EV infrastructure and a clear signal: American drivers should expect a new era of performance-driven electric vehicles starting in 2020.

Key Takeaways

• Ford launched 2019 Escape PHEV: First plug-in hybrid available nationwide.
• No full EV in 2019: Focus remained on hybrids and PHEVs.
• Mustang Mach-E delayed: Full electric SUV expected by late 2020.
• Charging network expanded: Partnered with Electrify America for infrastructure.
• Affordable options prioritized: Aimed at mainstream buyers over luxury.

The Electric Revolution: Ford’s Bold Move in 2019

Remember that moment when you first heard about electric cars? Maybe it was the sleek Tesla Model S gliding silently down the highway, or your neighbor showing off their new Nissan Leaf with pride. Electric vehicles (EVs) have been slowly but surely creeping into our lives, promising cleaner air, lower fuel costs, and a quieter ride. But one question has been buzzing in the minds of American car enthusiasts: *When will Ford bring electric cars to the USA in 2019?*

Ford, the iconic American automaker, has long been known for its rugged trucks and muscle cars. But the winds of change are blowing, and Ford isn’t just dipping its toes into the electric pool—it’s diving in headfirst. With competitors like Tesla, Chevrolet, and Nissan already leading the charge, Ford’s entry into the EV market feels overdue. Yet, 2019 marked a turning point. The company announced ambitious plans, teased exciting prototypes, and hinted at a future where the blue oval logo might just stand for more than just horsepower. So, let’s explore what Ford had in store for 2019, what we could realistically expect, and how these moves might shape the future of driving in America.

Ford’s Electric Strategy: More Than Just a Niche

A Shift from “If” to “When”

For years, Ford’s electric vehicle plans seemed vague. Sure, they had the Fusion Hybrid and the C-Max Energi, but these were hybrids—vehicles that still relied heavily on gasoline. The real question wasn’t *if* Ford would go electric, but *when* and *how much*. In 2019, Ford finally answered with a resounding commitment: $11 billion invested in electrification by 2022. This wasn’t just about adding one or two EVs to the lineup; it was about transforming the entire brand.

Think of it like this: Ford wasn’t building a tiny electric scooter in a corner of the factory. They were redesigning the factory itself. The investment included retooling plants, training engineers, and partnering with battery tech companies. The goal? To launch 16 fully electric vehicles and 24 electrified models (hybrids and plug-ins) by 2022. That’s a massive shift from the slow, cautious approach of the past.

The Role of the Mustang Mach-E

One of the most exciting announcements in 2019 was the Mustang Mach-E, Ford’s first all-electric SUV. Yes, you read that right—a Mustang that’s not a coupe, not a convertible, but an SUV with no exhaust pipes. This was a bold move, and it sparked both excitement and skepticism. After all, the Mustang is a symbol of American muscle, not silent, battery-powered efficiency.

But Ford’s reasoning was simple: to reach more people. SUVs dominate the American market, and the Mach-E was designed to appeal to families, commuters, and even traditional Mustang fans who wanted something different. Early specs were promising: a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge, 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds (for the GT version), and a starting price around $43,000. It was clear Ford wasn’t just making an electric car—they were making a statement.

Timeline and Availability: What to Expect in 2019

Initial Rollout and Pre-Orders

By mid-2019, Ford had opened pre-orders for the Mustang Mach-E, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2020. This meant 2019 was all about building hype, gathering deposits, and fine-tuning the final product. The Mach-E was offered in several trims: Select, California Route 1, Premium, First Edition, and GT. Each came with different range, performance, and price points.

Here’s a practical tip for potential buyers: if you were considering the Mach-E in 2019, placing a pre-order early secured your spot in line and sometimes came with perks like free charging credits or priority delivery. Ford’s website even had a handy configurator tool, letting you customize your dream Mach-E—from paint color to wheel size—before it even hit the road.

Other EVs in the Pipeline

While the Mach-E was the star, Ford had other electric projects brewing. The F-150 Hybrid was already on sale in 2019, offering a glimpse into Ford’s vision for electrifying its best-selling truck. But the real game-changer was the all-electric F-150, announced as part of the $11 billion plan. Though it wouldn’t launch until after 2019, Ford teased prototypes and promised a truck with over 500 horsepower and a range exceeding 300 miles.

Additionally, Ford partnered with Rivian—a rising EV startup—to develop a new electric vehicle platform. This collaboration hinted at a future where Ford could leverage cutting-edge battery tech and off-road capabilities, possibly for an electric SUV or pickup. While details were scarce in 2019, the partnership signaled Ford’s intent to innovate, not just imitate.

Charging Infrastructure: The Elephant in the Room

The Need for More Stations

Let’s be real: no matter how great an electric car is, its success depends on charging infrastructure. In 2019, the U.S. had around 26,000 public charging stations—a number that paled in comparison to the millions of gas stations. Ford knew this was a hurdle, so they took action. The company announced plans to build a network of 12,000 charging stations across the U.S. by 2021, including fast chargers capable of adding 50 miles of range in just 10 minutes.

But here’s the catch: Ford didn’t plan to build these stations alone. They partnered with companies like Electrify America (a subsidiary of Volkswagen, funded by the Dieselgate settlement) and ChargePoint to expand access. This collaborative approach was smart—it spread the cost and leveraged existing expertise.

Home Charging: A Realistic Option?

For many Americans, home charging is the most convenient option. In 2019, Ford offered a Ford Connected Charge Station—a Level 2 home charger that could fully recharge a Mach-E overnight. The cost? Around $799, plus installation fees. While this wasn’t cheap, Ford sweetened the deal by offering rebates, tax credits, and financing options.

Here’s a relatable anecdote: imagine you’re a suburban dad with a two-car garage. One car is your old gas-powered sedan, the other a shiny new Mach-E. Every night, you plug it in like a smartphone. By morning, it’s ready to go. No more gas stations, no more oil changes—just quiet, clean driving. That’s the future Ford was selling, and it resonated with many families.

Competition and Market Position: Where Does Ford Stand?

Comparing Ford to Tesla, Chevy, and Others

Let’s face it: Ford wasn’t entering a vacuum. Tesla had a head start with the Model Y (a direct competitor to the Mach-E), Chevrolet had the affordable Bolt EV, and even Hyundai and Kia were making waves with long-range, budget-friendly options. So how did Ford stack up?

First, price. The Mach-E started at $43,000, putting it in the same ballpark as the Model Y ($50,000+) and the Bolt EV ($37,000). But the Mach-E offered more cargo space, a longer range (in some trims), and the Mustang badge—a powerful emotional appeal. Second, brand loyalty. Ford has a massive customer base, especially in the Midwest and rural areas, where trust in the brand runs deep. This could give them an edge over newer EV-focused companies.

Challenges Ahead

Of course, Ford faced challenges. Tesla’s Supercharger network was (and still is) the gold standard for fast charging. Ford’s reliance on third-party networks meant drivers might face inconsistent speeds or compatibility issues. Additionally, Tesla’s over-the-air updates and tech-heavy interiors were ahead of the curve. Ford would need to catch up quickly to compete.

Another hurdle: perception. Some die-hard Ford fans saw the Mach-E as a betrayal of the Mustang’s heritage. Ford’s response? They leaned into the controversy, calling the Mach-E “the Mustang of EVs” and emphasizing its performance. It was a risky move, but one that paid off in media buzz and early sales.

Consumer Expectations and Real-World Considerations

Who Is the Target Buyer?

Ford’s 2019 EV strategy wasn’t just about building cars—it was about understanding who would buy them. The Mach-E targeted three key groups:

• Urban commuters who wanted a stylish, efficient SUV for city driving.
• Suburban families needing space for kids, groceries, and weekend getaways.
• EV enthusiasts eager for a performance-oriented electric vehicle.

Each group had different priorities. Commuters cared about charging speed and ease of use. Families wanted safety ratings and cargo space. Enthusiasts wanted acceleration and handling. Ford tried to cater to all with the Mach-E’s various trims and features.

Real-World Range and Performance

One of the biggest questions in 2019 was: *How far will these cars really go?* Ford claimed the Mach-E could hit 300 miles, but real-world tests (and cold weather) often reduced that number. For example, a Mach-E GT might see 250 miles in winter, while a California Route 1 trim (with a bigger battery) could hit 300 miles in ideal conditions.

Here’s a tip: always check the EPA range ratings, but also look at independent reviews. Sites like InsideEVs and Car and Driver often conduct real-world range tests, giving a more accurate picture. Also, consider your daily commute. If you drive 40 miles a day, even a 200-mile range is plenty—with room to spare.

Data Table: Ford’s 2019-2022 Electric Vehicle Roadmap

Vehicle	Type	Expected Launch	Estimated Range (miles)	Starting Price (USD)	Key Features
Mustang Mach-E	All-electric SUV	Late 2020	230–300	$43,000	0-60 mph in 3.5s (GT), SYNC 4 infotainment
F-150 Hybrid	Plug-in hybrid truck	2019 (already on sale)	25 (electric only), 500+ (total)	$45,000	Pro Power Onboard generator, 375 hp
All-electric F-150	All-electric truck	2022	300+	$40,000 (est.)	Over 500 hp, towing capacity 10,000+ lbs
Transit Electric	All-electric van	2022	126	$45,000 (est.)	Fleet-focused, 30-minute fast charging
Rivian-based EV	Electric SUV/pickup (collaboration)	2023 (est.)	300+	TBD	Off-road capability, advanced battery tech

Looking Ahead: What Ford’s 2019 Moves Mean for the Future

So, when will Ford bring electric cars to the USA in 2019? The answer is: they didn’t—not fully, anyway. The Mustang Mach-E wouldn’t hit dealerships until 2020, and the electric F-150 was still a few years away. But 2019 was the year Ford laid the groundwork. It was the year they stopped talking about the future and started building it.

What’s clear is that Ford’s approach was holistic. They didn’t just design new cars; they invested in infrastructure, retrained workers, and embraced partnerships. They understood that going electric wasn’t a one-off project—it was a transformation. And while the Mach-E’s Mustang branding might have raised eyebrows, it also showed Ford’s willingness to take risks.

For consumers, the takeaway is simple: Ford’s electric future is coming, and it’s not just for early adopters. With a range of vehicles—from practical SUVs to rugged trucks—there’s something for almost everyone. The real test will be execution: Can Ford deliver on their promises? Can they build reliable, affordable EVs at scale? And can they win over skeptics who still see EVs as niche?

As we look back on 2019, one thing is certain: Ford’s electric journey had just begun. The road ahead will be challenging, but with a century of automotive experience and a bold new vision, the blue oval might just lead the next era of American driving. So keep an eye on those charging stations, watch for the Mach-E’s arrival, and don’t be surprised when your neighbor’s next truck is silent, powerful, and 100% electric.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Ford bring electric cars to USA in 2019?

Ford officially launched its first all-electric vehicle, the Mustang Mach-E, in late 2019, with deliveries beginning in early 2020. The 2019 timeline focused on unveiling and pre-orders rather than immediate availability.

What electric models is Ford releasing in the USA?

The Mustang Mach-E was Ford’s flagship electric car introduced in 2019, followed by plans for the all-electric F-150 Lightning. These models marked Ford’s major push into the EV market.

Are Ford’s 2019 electric cars affordable?

The Mustang Mach-E started at around $43,000 before incentives, positioning it competitively among mid-range electric SUVs. Ford aimed to balance performance, range, and price for mainstream buyers.

What charging options will Ford offer for its electric cars?

Ford partnered with Electrify America to provide access to a nationwide network of fast chargers. The Mustang Mach-E also supports home charging via a Ford Mobile Charger included with purchase.

How does the Mustang Mach-E compare to Tesla?

The Mach-E offered similar range (up to 300 miles) and tech features as Tesla’s Model Y but with a lower price tag and distinct styling. It was seen as Ford’s direct challenge to Tesla’s dominance.

Will Ford expand its EV lineup beyond 2019?

Yes, Ford announced a $11.5 billion investment in EVs through 2022, including the electric F-150 and Transit van. The 2019 Mustang Mach-E was just the beginning of their broader electrification strategy.