Over the past few months, Ford CEO Jim Farley has given us plenty of hints as to what we can expect from future Ford EVs, which are slated to begin launching in 2025. These second-generation models will ride on dedicated platforms with unique exterior styling, will be simple and fully updatable, and utilize futuristic features, as well as require far less labor to produce than their ICE counterparts.. However, one thing that doesn’t seem likely to be used in future Ford EVs are large battery packs, according to CEO Jim Farley.
“So we’re learning that actually we have to challenge ourselves to use the battery more creatively than just move the vehicle,” Farley said while speaking at the recent Morgan Stanley Sustainable Finance Summit. “I think that’s really important. And I don’t think the competitors have figured that out yet. The other thing is that our industry is obsessed with large batteries because the customers are worried about range anxiety. And really, we think the solution is actually not a big battery. It’s a small possible battery for competitive range, because humans normally taking a long trip are going to stop after 200 to 300 miles. So actually, if you can fast charge and get another 200 miles in 10 minutes, that’d be better than having a 500-mile range battery, which costs like $30,000 extra.”
These comments go hand-in-hand with some details recently provided by Doug Field, Ford’s chief advanced product development and technology officer, regarding the automaker’s upcoming three-row EV crossover for the U.S., which is expected to be the Ford Explorer EV. Field noted that this model will offer a 350-mile range, all with minimal range loss at highway speeds from a battery that’s smaller, lighter, and cheaper than current units.
Additionally, the Explorer EV will reportedly offer customers features such as Pro Power Onboard and a large useable frunk, and will also signify the automaker’s move away from two-row ICE crossovers in general.
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Comments
This seems totally wrong approach. I purchased a new 69 Chevelle SS396. The brochure indicated 21 gallon fuel tank. The dealer explained the exhaust system took up more space than allowed in the standard Chevelle. Therefore my driving range was only about 180 miles at 12 mpg in town. Not much more at 16mpg highway. I’ve purchased at least one new car per year since for myself or other family members. Range was a factor in all of those including a Morgan that ran on propane(it was difficult to take a road trip on Sunday as many propane dealers were not always or predictable to be open) loved both Cars, sold the Chevelle after a 3,000 mile road trip from Texas to New York. Then spent a large sum converting the Morgan to gasoline. Gas price was never a factor. It’s the time it takes to find a clean place that is conveniently located. EV would only work as a second car and to those who can plug in on the road. The longer range cars will appeal to many more buyers.
As a Ford stockholder, I hope I’m wrong.
I definitely take 500mile range over 200 mile if it’s $50,000 vs $80,000 for that 500 mile range. If we are talking $10,000 vs $40,000 then maybe I would settle for 200 mile range…
Problem is the range is bogus, turn on the Ac or heater and that 200 mile range is less that 120 miles.
AC doesn’t impact range as much as you’d think – I just did a round trip over the weekend of about 240 miles each way and keeping the inside cool was no factor. I’ve found that the heater, though, along with cold weather more generally is the biggest determinate for range – as you point out, it’s 40% or more.
I’m tired of hearing about range anxiety, the problem isn’t anxiety, it’s lack of range. I can drive 500 miles in a day easy, and I want to be able to do it. Life is too short for lines and waiting for a battery chargers.