Here's what we know: Ford's upcoming Mustang-inspired electric vehicle crossover is due to be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month. Ford has already begun teasing the vehicle which will likely go head-to-head against the likes of the also upcoming Tesla Model Y. Ford's first-ever ground-up EV, whose official name has yet to be announced, is a huge deal for the American automaker. Needless to say, it will only be the first of many more all-electric vehicles to come. And because of its unique standing, Ford reportedly believes a different type of market launch is required.
According to Ford Authority, sources who are familiar with the company's plans are claiming those interested in buying the vehicle will be able to place their orders on November 17 – the same day it will be unveiled in LA.
In the past, Ford, like many automakers, forced customers to wait for an unspecified period of time to place their orders at dealerships. But it appears Ford is taking a page directly from Tesla's playbook. Tesla, unlike all mainstream car companies, has what's called a go-to-market strategy, which involves the acceptance of customer orders for new models they day they're revealed. In the case of the Model 3, however, orders (with deposits) were being accepted over a year before deliveries got underway.
Chances are Ford has no intention of letting buyers wait that long because, unlike Tesla, Ford has decades of production experience. It knows how to get an all-new vehicle to market on time. Its new EV crossover, despite its all-new architecture and battery technology, is no exception.
If Ford does plan to adapt a go-to-market approach, then it'll be interesting to see whether a deposit will be required. Chances are it will, but that likely won't stop people. We know the vehicle will heavily borrow Mustang styling traits, such as its headlights and taillights. It'll also be a sleek four-door fastback-style with about a 300-mile electric driving range. Bill Ford himself states it will "go like hell."
A starting price of around $40,000 is likely and we'll probably see the first examples hit the road in the second half of 2020.