EV week spotlight: Ford’s bold shift and charging’s quiet surge

Ford’s Next EV Platform: A “Model T” Moment in the Electric‑Vehicle Revolution

Announcement Hints During the Latest Earnings Call

During its most recent earnings call, CEO Jim Farley dropped subtle teasers about an upcoming major revelation, describing it as a potential “Model T moment.” Even if the surprise won’t instantly overhaul the entire automotive landscape, Ford’s forthcoming move could attract a fresh set of buyers to the electric‑vehicle arena.

Key Elements of the New Platform

• Affordability: The platform is engineered to make EV ownership accessible to a broader audience.
• Scalability: Designed for rapid production, allowing Ford to meet growing demand.
• Range: Aimed at delivering longer driving distances to satisfy everyday commuters.

These features combine to position Ford’s next‑generation vehicles as compelling alternatives to traditional models, potentially re‑energizing the electric‑vehicle market.

Broader Industry Context

In tandem with this development, EVgo is preparing to construct 7,500 new public fast‑charging stations across the United States, further supporting the expansion of the EV ecosystem.

A bit of history

Ford’s “Model T Moment” Explained

Ford’s new electric platform aims to echo a pivotal chapter in automotive history. The original Model T, launched in 1908, was more than a car—it was a social revolution.

Revolutionary Production

Henry Ford’s 1913 moving assembly line slashed build times and costs. The result was a sharply reduced price, allowing the Model T to become affordable for the average American.

Mass‑Market Milestone

• The Model T became the first car to reach a broad audience in the 1920s.
• Its widespread availability put the United States—and much of the world—on wheels.
• By democratizing transportation, it transformed American society.

Ford’s Modern Challenge

If Ford can replicate even a fraction of that impact with its new electric vehicle platform, it could mark a defining moment for the electric era.

Tesla’s turn… and missed opportunity?

How Tesla’s Dream Shifted

For a time, many saw Tesla as the 21st‑century Model T, a vehicle that would bring electric driving to the masses. Early dominance, a forward‑looking vision, and charismatic leadership gave the EV pioneer a golden ticket to revolutionize mobility. Yet somewhere along the line, Tesla’s priorities tilted. Price levels rose, affordable models slipped or vanished, and the brand pivoted toward performance and luxury at the expense of mass‑market reach.

Current Landscape

• Range & infrastructure – Tesla still tops the charts, but the affordability race is slipping.
• Global dominance – Chinese makers like BYD lead worldwide, even if they’re absent from U.S. shelves.
• U.S. gaps – The promised $25,000 Tesla remains a vaporware claim, while Ford and GM step in to occupy the space.

Bottom Line

While Tesla ignited the electric revolution, it’s no longer the sole torchbearer.

The $25K EV isn’t a fantasy anymore

Ford Forges Affordable EV Future

Current U.S. electric vehicles remain premium priced, even after government rebates. Bloomberg reports that Ford may soon change that narrative with a next‑generation platform geared toward models priced closer to $25,000. If confirmed, a wave of American drivers long sidelined could finally cross the electric threshold.

Beyond a Single Eye‑Catcher

Ford’s new platform isn’t confined to a single flagship. Three distinct product lines are reportedly in development:

• Compact SUV – a versatile, city‑friendly option
• Small Pickup – a rugged, user‑friendly truck
• Entry‑Level EREV – an Extended‑Range Electric Vehicle designed for straight‑line efficiency

Skunk‑Works Origins

Behind the rumors lies Ford’s “skunkworks” team – a lean, startup‑style unit that has operated under the radar. Their quiet innovation could bring production of these affordable EVs as early as 2026.

EREV: The best of both worlds?

E‑REV: a subtle yet persuasive shift in hybrid design

Unlike conventional hybrids, an E‑REV powers the wheels solely with electric energy, offering a silence‑filled, gear‑shift‑free drive. When the battery reaches its limit, a compact engine activates—not to propel the car, but to regenerate electricity, thereby stretching range and allaying fears of running out of power.

Because E‑REVs operate with smaller batteries, they typically come at a lower price, opening electric driving to a wider audience.

Market insights

• McKinsey’s survey from early this year suggests that E‑REVs could attract drivers reluctant to switch to pure EVs due to range anxiety.
• Ford is not the sole automaker embracing this trend. Stellantis plans the Ram 1500 Ramcharger for early 2026, while Scout Motors has pledged E‑REV pickups and SUVs.

Why E‑REVs matter today

For drivers concerned about charging deserts or long road trips, E‑REVs represent the most practical transition vehicle. It’s not flashy—just intelligently engineered.

Meanwhile, charging networks are booming

b>New DC Fast‑Charging Surge Fuels EV Growth, Even as Federal Funds pause

Despite a Trump administration freeze on federal EV charging funds, the private sector is keeping the pedal to the metal. According to EV‑charging data firm Paren, the U.S. added over 4,200 new DC fast‑charging ports in Q2 of 2025 alone— the biggest quarterly jump in history. That’s no small feat. It’s a sign that the EV ecosystem is thriving, even in a politically chilly climate.

Key Takeaways

• 4,200+ new DC ports in Q2 2025 – the largest quarterly increase ever.
• Private sector drives charging infrastructure, even as federal funds pause.
• EV ecosystem remains robust, reflecting strong consumer demand.

Implications for the EV Landscape

• Greater charging capacity boosts confidence for EV adopters.
• Private investment fills the gap created by federal budget freezes.
• Continued infrastructure growth signals long‑term viability for the EV market.

BP Pulse Opens Largest U.S. EV Charging Hub at LAX

BP Pulse has unveiled the biggest electric‑vehicle charging center in the United States, located at Los Angeles International Airport. The facility houses 48 ultra‑fast chargers, boasting a modern design and 24‑hour accessibility. It already supports a wide customer base, from rental fleets and rideshare fleets to everyday electric‑vehicle drivers.

High‑Traffic Solution that Cities are Replicating

City governments across the country are starting to follow LAX’s lead, installing high‑volume charging hubs that can keep up with the surge of electric‑vehicle usage. The LAX hub is a concrete example of how large‑scale solutions are becoming the norm.

• BP Pulse – 48 chargers, sleek design, 24/7 access
• Tesla – expanding network, plug‑and‑charge simplicity, NACS compatibility
• EVgo – increasing charger density nationwide
• Electrify America – adding new features, expanding presence

Momentum Beyond Washington

Automakers continue to invest, consumers are buying, and the charging infrastructure is growing at an unprecedented rate. Even if Ford’s upcoming announcement does not completely alter the competitive landscape, it is part of an ongoing shift that is already underway.

EVs Become Accessible, Practical, and Normal

Electric‑vehicles are becoming more accessible, practical, and—most importantly—a normal part of everyday life. The LAX hub and the expansion of other networks demonstrate that the high‑traffic, high‑volume approach is the future of U.S. charging infrastructure.