While Ford has scaled back its ambitions to completely phase out internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030, it is not slowing down on its electric vehicle development. Following the emotional farewell to the beloved Ford Fiesta last year, marked by a poignant commercial, Ford is set to revive this iconic model as a battery-electric vehicle in the coming years.
Details about the upcoming electric Fiesta remain scarce, including its launch date. However, it is confirmed that this model will be built on a brand-new, bespoke platform designed specifically for low-cost electric cars. This platform is expected to be the “most efficient electric platform in the world,” according to Ford.
Nothing with Volkswagen
Unlike the Explorer and Capri models, which are built on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, the new Fiesta will not share any ties with VW’s ID.2. Instead, Ford is developing this new platform independently, led by a specialized division under the direction of Alan Clarke, a former Tesla engineer. This move signifies Ford’s commitment to carving out its own path in the EV market.
In addition to the Fiesta, this new platform will underpin several other affordable electric models. These include a C-segment vehicle set to succeed the Focus and the next generation of the Puma. Online renderings of the future Fiesta vary widely, with some drawing inspiration from the Explorer’s design, while others envision a more vintage look reminiscent of the original Fiesta, or entirely new aesthetics.
The decision to revive the Fiesta and develop new affordable electric models stems from a strategic reassessment. Marin Gjaja, COO of Ford Model E, acknowledges that Ford’s presence in the budget car segment has diminished with the discontinuation of the Ka+ and Fiesta, and the upcoming retirement of the Focus. This is particularly challenging given the competitive pressure from Chinese manufacturers, which are subject to lower tariffs in Europe compared to the US.
The new electric vehicles are expected to debut between 2026 and 2027. These models will be positioned below the Explorer, targeting a length under 4.5 meters and a price point ideally under €30,000, but definitely below €40,000.
