There is still a lot we do not know about Ford’s upcoming mid-size electric pickup, including its final name and exact reveal date. However, Ford CEO Jim Farley continues to share small but important details about the low-cost EV, which is scheduled to enter production in 2027 on the company’s new universal electric platform.
During a recent appearance on The Verge’s Decoder podcast, Farley confirmed that the new electric pickup will not launch with advanced Level 3 autonomous driving technology. According to the CEO, that level of autonomy requires expensive hardware that would push the vehicle outside of its intended affordable price point.
Instead, Ford plans to introduce a more limited version of BlueCruise at launch. Farley explained that the focus will be on a narrower operating domain, specifically hands-free highway driving and high-speed safety assistance. The idea is to deliver a reliable baseline capability first, then gradually expand functionality over time as systems are validated and costs allow.
Farley acknowledged that this approach can be challenging for marketing and sales teams, since the vehicle’s feature set could evolve significantly after launch. However, he emphasized that incremental development is the most practical way to balance cost control, safety, and long-term capability in next-generation EVs.
Despite its cost-conscious approach, Ford has previously stated that the new EV pickup will still offer a strong list of features. These include a mostly digital interior with a large central screen, rear-wheel drive performance comparable to a Mustang EcoBoost, and the ability to power a home for up to six days using vehicle-to-home technology.
The upcoming electric pickup is expected to launch exclusively as a four-door model and will use lithium-iron phosphate battery packs. Ford is targeting a starting price of around $30,000, though final pricing, driving range, and charging details have yet to be announced. The model could also revive the Ranchero name, based on a recent trademark filing.