Ford Motor(US:F) Benzinga·2025-12-16 04:33Core Insights - Ford Motor Co. is discontinuing production of the F-150 Lightning EV pickup truck, indicating a strategic shift away from pure electric mobility [1] - The company has announced a $19.5 billion charge as it pivots towards hybrids globally and focuses on low-cost EVs for the U.S. market through its Universal EV Platform [2] - Ford expects that approximately 50% of its global volume will consist of hybrids, Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), and EVs [3] Production Changes - The F-150 Lightning will transition to an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) with an estimated range of 700 miles, as Ford aims to avoid investing heavily in large EVs that are not profitable [4] - The first vehicle from the Universal EV Platform is set to be a fully connected midsize pickup truck, which will be assembled at the Louisville Assembly Plant starting in 2027 [3] Market Strategy - Ford's CEO noted that premium electric vehicles priced between $50,000 and $80,000 were not selling well, leading to a reevaluation of the company's EV strategy [5] - The company has ended its EV manufacturing partnership with SK On, resulting in Ford fully owning the Kentucky plant while SK On retains ownership of the Tennessee battery plant [5] Regulatory Environment - The CEO praised the relaxation of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards by President Trump, suggesting it would allow Ford to concentrate on American-made products [6] - The CEO previously predicted that EV adoption in the U.S. would reach only 5% [6] European Expansion - Ford is expanding its presence in Europe through a partnership with Renault Group, where it will lead the design and driving dynamics for two Ford-badged EVs built on Renault's Ampere platform [7] Stock Performance - Ford's stock declined by 0.80% to $13.65 at market close but rebounded by 1.11% to $13.80 during after-hours trading [7]