DeluxeStang

So we know as a result of both your comments, and those of others that CE1 is gonna be pretty limited at first, a truck, utility, and maybe a van. But do you believe if the platform turns out to be a smashing success that they'll use it to spin off off models, maybe things that are more enthusiast oriented over time?

I think Ford botched the execution with the VW based Capri, and to a lesser extent, the explorer, but the fundamental idea of trying to create more expressive, aspirational EVs itself is a good one. The mach-e is one of the best selling EVs that isn't a Tesla because it stands out from the crowd. If they apply the ST and RS badges to future, entirely Ford EVs, and actually give them better styling and driving dynamics than the competition, that can truly differentiate Ford from it's rivals. These basic bitch 10k Chinese EVs are gonna dominate the super affordable EV market, not much Ford can do about that. 100 grand EVs with 1,000 hp are also a dime a dozen, and that's such a small market that it's not really worth the investment unless you want to do a high end halo product. But aspirational, fun, charismatic EVs 25-35 grand with 300 miles of range, and maybe 250-400 hp, that's a market in the EV world that's pretty underserved right now. I can totally see a market for EVs that are a lot nicer than some 15 grand Chinese shoebox, but a lot more obtainable than a 100k model s. Something that's fun and engaging to drive that doesn't need a 1,000 hp and a mid 2 second 0-60. If Ford botches the development of these additional EVs, yeah, it's not gonna be great. But they got their ass kicked with Capri. Maybe that experience makes them step back, and reevaluate how to do future nameplates justice instead of making more half assed nostalgia grabs. Ford of Europe fucked up with this new Capri, but Ford of Europe throughout the ages has also given us some of the best historical Ford's ever.

But the Capri and explorer were arguably limited by using VW's EV platform. Ford's own ground up EVs seem to be far more compelling. Like the mach-e, especially as it's been improved over the years, is a great driving, great looking, great performing EV. When it's Ford's platform, things are generally pretty good, and actually engaging to drive. From the sound of things, Ford's only gonna be relying on their platforms moving forward.

Side impact safety standards.

It looks so much worse now lol. The oddly shaped grille replacing the more conventional one. I know a lot of people didn't like the rugged plastic on the previous version, but contrasting material like that helps to break up the visual mass of the design, it makes it look less fat. When everything is body colored, you can't hide the bulkiness of the design as effectively.

If they can make some sporty EVs worthy of the name I'm ok with it.

https://insideevs.com/news/756824/ford-st-rs-ev-versions/ They're talking about the mach-e, and especially the electric puma here, but this, coupled with the article from another prominent Ford employee not too long ago saying they can definitely see the return of lower, non crossover EVs in the future Ford lineup, it's encouraging. It seems like Ford has finally found its niche within the electric car market.

I like seeing a longer hood, but it's almost too much here. That being said, it's nice to see an EV that isn't a stub nose can forward design like everyone else's. I know Ford's EV truck is probably gonna have a shorter hood, but I hope everything else has more elegant and classical proportions.

I guarantee the directive was to make it look more like a crossover. The designers were definitely chanting words like "Rugged" and "Dynamic" frantically as they scribbled the design.

Ford and Mazda are doing a pretty good job, almost everyone else on the other hand...

If they design a whole new car they could really be onto something 😂. But in all seriousness, and I almost never say this, but the hood is too long. I'm a massive fan of long hoods, make the hood on the next mustang even longer I often say, but it's just so disproportionate here. Like it's comical. Maybe with the a-pillar moved forward about 6-12 inches they'd start to have something as a decent starting point. The more squared off shape and general stance lends itself well to the idea of a Korean take on a g wagon, or defender. But those proportions need some serious help.

To be fair, I'm not terribly surprised. I have quite a few family members worth 7, or even 8 figures, my mother's cousin owns on of the largest meat distribution companies in the country. He drives a Ford truck. My uncle who was an dentist and is worth around 5 million drove the same 90s suburban for over 20 years and 500k miles before the transmission blew up while towing a boat. He just gave it to the towing company in exchange for towing it away. A lot of wealthy people drive "normal" brands for a variety of reasons. Ford vehicles are extremely reliable, they last and last. For people who want to devote as much money and mental resources as possible to their business, they don't want to be worrying about if their BMW 5 series is gonna start today. A Ford just works, it's peace of mind, something that's hugely important to a lot of wealthier individuals. Then there's the fact that Ford is just cool. There isn't any other brand where you can see a mid-engine supercar next to a 20k hybrid truck next to a muscle car, next to a transit, next to a Ford bronco/raptor. The diversity and range of Ford's lineup is hands down their biggest strength. It's why the biggest mistake Ford could make as a brand would be to become just a truck and transit brand in the future. Thankfully, they don't seem to be going that route.

https://youtu.be/GzVh2AlbUXI?si=1w1kOAcy9bLMHg-p It looks like it's picked up a lot of pace. The guy estimates it ran a 6:45 based off his timer and rough calculations.

Holy shit, even things like the placement of the side reflectors are basically the same as this ranger. They were definitely huge fans of it.

I saw another comment that suggested this could be Ford's skunkworks affordable EV truck. It fits some of the characteristics, small, affordable looking, electric truck with styling not too far off other boxy Ford's, and this was in California, the same state where Ford's skunkworks EVs are being developed. But I'm not convinced that's true. I believe Fords skunkworks stuff will be more radical looking as implied by Farley, and I doubt Ford would make this truck a 2 door.