(Source: Ford)
If you’ve been waiting for an electric vehicle that doesn’t break the bank, Ford is sending a clear message: it’s coming soon. CEO Jim Farley confirmed that the company’s $30,000 EVs are “right around the corner.” With vehicle testing already underway and component sourcing nearly complete, Ford is accelerating its plans for a more affordable EV lineup.
This move signals a shift in Ford’s strategy. While EV adoption in the U.S. is still modest, Farley believes there’s a big opportunity to attract buyers who have been hesitant due to high prices.
What We Know About Ford’s $30,000 EVs
Ford is building these vehicles on its new Universal EV Platform (UEV), which is designed to be flexible and cost-effective. The first model is expected to be a smaller pickup or SUV, roughly the size of the Maverick. The platform allows Ford to produce multiple vehicle types without starting from scratch each time, helping reduce production costs.
The entry-level EV will use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries instead of the more common nickel manganese cobalt packs. LFP batteries are cheaper to manufacture, last longer through repeated charging, and are generally safer. The battery size is expected to be around 51 kilowatt-hours, which should be enough for most daily drives.
Ford is also changing how it assembles these vehicles. Instead of a traditional assembly line, the car is built in sections—rear, center, and front—which are later joined together. This method is meant to save money and speed up production.
Why Timing Matters
Ford’s timing is strategic. EV sales in the U.S. recently slowed, partly due to the end of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. In October, Ford sold just over 4,700 EVs, down 25% from the same month last year. Pausing production of higher-end models like the F-150 Lightning allows Ford to focus resources on its new, more affordable EVs.
By late 2025, the Louisville Assembly plant will start installing equipment for the new vehicles, while the Michigan battery facility ramps up LFP cell production. Farley emphasizes that these EVs aren’t some distant project—they’re on the horizon.
What This Means for Buyers
For consumers, a $30,000 Ford EV could finally make switching to electric more realistic. While the vehicle may not have the same range as premium EVs, its affordability, reliability, and lower maintenance costs could outweigh that limitation for most drivers. Early adopters may also benefit from pre-order opportunities and first access once production starts.
Bottom Line
Ford is doubling down on affordable EVs, and the company appears to be on track to deliver. With production facilities being prepared, batteries ready to roll, and vehicle testing nearly complete, these $30,000 EVs could reach dealerships sooner than many expect. For buyers who want a practical, budget-friendly entry into electric driving, the wait may soon be over.