Ford Model e: The Brand Bends Over Backwards for Electric Vehicles

To accelerate the transition, Ford is splitting its company into two with “ Model e ” for electric vehicles, and “ Blue ” for traditional cars.

Among the latecomers in electric cars, Ford had to show greater ambitions similar to Stellantis. While the American manufacturer only launched the electric Focus in 2013 out of obligation in California, it took until 2020 for the “real” model, the Mustang Mach-E.

And still, this is just a single model. The brand plans to release a second only in 2023. Furthermore, it is built on a Volkswagen platform, partner for this upcoming electric SUV. How could Ford meet its all-electric target by 2026 and 100% electric in Europe?

Ford Model E, nose and beard ahead of Tesla

To address this, the company is doing something very different from Stellantis, which prefers to showcase graphs or news agendas. It has announced the division of its automotive operations into two major subsidiaries. One is “ Blue ” or “ Blue ,” reflecting its logo color. This division is responsible for developing iconic models like the Mustang, the Bronco SUV, or the F-Series pickup.

But the second and more important unit is Ford Model e. The name was not chosen by chance. The “e” stands for “electric,” but also echoes the Model T and A that launched the company’s journey over a century ago.

Model e is also the reason why the Tesla Model 3 is not called Model E. Elon Musk wanted to name it that for its S.E.X.Y. lineup, but Ford secured the rights beforehand…

Electric and hybrid cars will account for about “one-third of Ford’s global production” by 2026. This figure will increase to 50% by 2030.

Electric yes, but software too

The Ford Model e division aims to develop and sell all future electric vehicles. Although already designed, the Ford F-150 Lightning pickup will be part of it. It will also handle specific components such as “ batteries, motors, converters, charging, and recycling ”. Additionally, it includes the software and connectivity aspects, essential parts of the modern car.

To be precise, Ford communicates extensively about Model e and Blue but has six divisions within its “ Ford+ ” plan. Another is “ Ford Pro ,” a specialized unit for commercial vehicles. This includes large pickups and vans, such as the Transit.

“ Ford Drive ” focuses on developing autonomous cars and mobility services. “ Ford Credit ” is the financial subsidiary. And let’s not forget Lincoln, Ford’s upscale brand.

Read also: Hyundai is Refining Its Electric and Autonomous Vehicle Strategy