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Ford Trucks Announces First Electric Big Rig

Ford Trucks has officially entered the electric heavy-duty arena. News reports this week highlighted the debut of the Ford Trucks F-Line E, the manufacturer’s first fully electric big rig, unveiled at the Solutrans truck fair in France. The new battery-powered model will hit roads next year across Europe and select global markets, marking a significant step forward for Ford’s commercial EV ambitions.

Developed by Ford Otosan, Ford’s long-running joint venture with Turkey’s Koç Holding, the F-Line E brings modern electrification to a company that has produced Ford-branded vehicles for more than six decades and has been in the truck business since 1982. The new model adopts a cab-over layout and will be offered in both 4×2 and 6×2 configurations.

The larger 26-ton 6×2 version features a single rear-mounted electric motor paired with four side-mounted NMC battery packs totaling 392 kWh, with 314 kWh usable. Ford Trucks estimates a driving range of up to 186 miles (300 km), designed for the short and medium haul routes these trucks typically serve. Power output is strong for a commercial EV: 415 hp (310 kW) continuous, with short bursts up to 523 hp (390 kW). Torque figures are even more impressive at 1,010 lb-ft (1,370 Nm) continuous and 1,821 lb-ft (2,470 Nm) peak. A three-speed automated transmission helps optimize efficiency and performance.

The lighter 19-ton 4×2 model uses the same transmission but comes with a smaller battery setup: three packs totaling 294 kWh (235 kWh usable) and a slightly lower-powered motor rated at 315 hp (235 kW) continuous and 389 hp (290 kW) peak. Estimated range lands at 155 miles (250 km), suitable for urban or regional fleets such as waste management, last mile delivery, or supermarket distribution.

Both trucks use NMC batteries supplied by ZF and support DC fast charging at up to 285 kW on the larger version and 213 kW on the smaller model. Ford Trucks says the batteries can charge from 20% to 80% in under 50 minutes through a CCS2 connector.

Standard features include rear air suspension and an electric air compressor, while options like rear wheel steering for the 6×2 chassis, an electric PTO, and equipment for towing up to 10 tons give fleet operators room to customize.

(Image: Ford Trucks)

Ford’s eConsulting Tool Helps Businesses Plan Their Electric Future

For businesses considering the switch to electric commercial vehicles, Ford’s eConsulting platform offers a clear and practical starting point. Designed to help fleets understand how next-generation electric trucks and vans fit into real-world operations, the online tool provides route-based analysis, energy estimates, and emissions insights tailored to each user’s needs.

Using Ford’s website, fleet managers can assess the suitability of electric vehicles by mapping out their daily routes and adjusting key operational parameters. Body type, load capacity, driving environment, and even ambient temperature can be customized to reflect real usage conditions. Whether your business relies on box trucks, refrigerated trucks, garbage compactors, or trailers, the system adapts to different operational profiles.

The process begins with the Range Calculation module. Users enter how many kilometers the vehicle will travel per day, the total distance expected per year, and how many days the vehicle will be in service. Driving location can be split between city, inter-city, and highway use, offering a more accurate view of energy needs. Load status ranges from empty to fully loaded, while temperature options span from very cold conditions at -10°C to hot conditions at 45°C. These variables help predict how climate and cargo weight impact battery performance.

By submitting this information, the eConsulting tool calculates estimated energy consumption and CO2 emissions. It also allows businesses to input diesel fuel price per liter and electricity cost per kilowatt-hour, making it easy to compare operating costs between traditional combustion vehicles and electric alternatives.

Ford notes that actual energy consumption may vary with factors such as road conditions, temperature, driving style, and load. The tool calculates range assuming the vehicle will maintain a 10 percent state of charge buffer. CO2 emissions are based on well-to-wheel analysis, accounting for both electricity production and fuel consumption emissions.