Following the introduction of the UEV Platform and Production System last year, we’re excited to share how Ford is taking on the challenge of the electric vehicle cost equation by chasing physics - the pursuit of efficiency.
Join the UEV team for an in-depth look at how they approached the new platform with a systems approach, resulting in needing less battery to deliver more value for users, starting with a mid-size electric truck in 2027.
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INFO
Ford Bounty Hunters: The Pursuit of Efficiency is a documentary-style tech briefing and video presentation released by Ford Motor Company in February 2026. It details the engineering philosophy and "bounty culture" used by a specialized California-based "skunkworks" team to develop Ford's next-generation Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform.
The "Bounty" System
The title refers to an internal engineering incentive system where teams chase specific numerical targets—called "bounties"—to reduce vehicle weight, aerodynamic drag, and cost.
Cost-Efficiency Link: Engineers assign a direct dollar value to physical improvements. For example, reducing a part's weight can be "paid for" by the resulting savings in battery size and cost.
System Optimization: Instead of optimizing individual parts in isolation, the bounty system forces different departments (like aerodynamics and interior design) to share a common goal: maximizing range while decreasing battery cost.
Key Example:
In the presentation, Ford highlighted how they merged side-view mirror motors into a single actuator, allowing for a 20% smaller, more aerodynamic housing that added 1.5 miles of range.
Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) Platform
The briefing showcased the UEV platform, which is designed to be highly affordable and efficient, prioritizing "chasing physics" over simply building larger, more expensive batteries.
Mid-size Electric Truck: The first vehicle on this platform will be a mid-size pickup truck scheduled for launch in 2027 with a target starting price of approximately $30,000.
Engineering Innovations: The platform uses large aluminum castings, a 48-volt low-voltage system, and a "zonal" electrical architecture that reduces wiring length by 4,000 feet compared to first-gen Ford EVs. Aerodynamics: Ford claims the upcoming UEV truck will have a drag coefficient and aerodynamic efficiency 15% better than any current pickup on the market.
The "Skunkworks" Team
The project is led by Alan Clarke, a former Tesla engineer who played a significant role in the Model S development. The team operates out of Irvine, California, and includes specialists with backgrounds in Formula 1, NASCAR, and advanced software development. CEO Jim Farley has described this project as one of the most important in Ford's history, aimed at competing directly with low-cost EV manufacturers from China.
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- Ford, do you wanna know what would knock about $10,000 to $40,000 off of the price of your ev’s so you could actually sell them? Getting rid of dealerships so they quit over marking up electric vehicle prices.- Unfortunately, there are laws and regulations protecting dealerships. Ford couldn't just detach from dealerships if they wanted to. There would have to be significant legislation passed that would give them the opportunity to do so.
- I liked that they tried to explain some of the concrete steps taken to reduce costs and streamline production, and didn't shy away from going a little technical. Although it's an ad, I feel more informed. Reminds me of those old Chevrolet ads that explained how suspension worked and actually treated customers as intelligent people. Hope the hard work pays off soon.
- I'm a lifetime automotive enthusiast, and of the many, many vehicles I've driven over the years, one stood out as my favorite. And, ironically, was discontinued a few months later. I test drove an F-150 Lightning Lariat last summer and loved it. At $80,000, it landed a bit above my preferred price point, but seemed not all that expensive for a well-equipped full-size truck. I don't yet own an EV, but have to wonder how many EV detractors have never actually driven one.
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