'700 miles of range': What Ford and Ram replaced their EV pickups with

Core Insights - Ford's F-150 Lightning was the best-selling electric pickup truck in the U.S. last year, but the company has decided to pivot towards extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) due to challenges in understanding consumer preferences for EVs [1] - Major automakers, including Ford and Stellantis' Ram, are set to deliver EREV models by 2027, indicating a shift in strategy within the industry [1] Group 1: EREV Characteristics - An EREV, or series hybrid, operates differently from traditional hybrids, as the gas engine is used solely to charge the battery rather than drive the wheels [2] - The larger battery in EREVs allows for a longer electric-only driving range, with both Ram and Scout EREVs expected to achieve approximately 150 miles before the gas generator activates [3] Group 2: Market Trends and Consumer Interest - The global EREV model count increased by 40% in one year, primarily driven by growth in China, highlighting a booming segment in the electric vehicle market [4] - A McKinsey survey indicates that 13% to 18% of car buyers in Germany, the UK, and the U.S. would consider an EREV over traditional combustion or hybrid vehicles, with the U.S. showing the highest interest at 18% [5] - Potential EREV buyers are attracted to the benefits of faster charging and longer driving ranges, allowing them to experience electric driving without full dependence on charging infrastructure [6]