Ford is restructuring its 2027 truck models to prioritize profitable engines and more rugged off-road trims. The company also revealed plans for a 2028 electric pickup called the Fathom,which aims to retail for less than $30,000.
Trimming the Super Duty: Goodbye 6.8-liter V-8
Ford is streamlining its Super Duty engine options to focus on higher-margin powertrains and reduce manufacturing complexity. As reported by the source, the company is cutting the 6.8-liter gasoline V-8 and the standard 6.7-liter diesel from the Super Duty lineup. While the 7.3-liter V-8 will continue to serve as the base engine for the F-250 and F-350, the high-output 6.7-liter diesel is being repositioned as the sole diesel option, specifically integrated into the F-450.
This shift toward consolidation reflects a broader industry trend where manufacturers prioritize high-profit models over entry-level, low-margin configurations. By narrowing the engine menu, Ford aims to simplify assembly while pushing customers toward more expensive, specialized diesel and V-8 options.
Raptor-inspired 35-inch tires for commercial fleets
Ford is expanding the accessibility of its off-road branding by bringing premium features to more affordable truck trims. the company is making Tremor and Raptor packages available at lower price points and introducing a new XL Off-Road 35-inch tire kit designed for commercial fleets. this kit allows work-truck buyers to achieve a rugged aesthetic similar to a Raptor without the high cost of specialized graphics.
In the compact segment, the Maverick is also seeing updates, such as the revamped FX4 package which is no longer restricted to the XLT trim . additionally, the new Bronze appearance package and updated Lariat Luxury options—featuring B&O audio and Pro Power Onboard—allow buyers to access premium styling and utility without upgrading to a full-sized truck.
The $30,000 Fathom and the 700-mile Lightning
Ford's future electric vehicle strategy centers on the 2028 launch of the Fathom, an electric pickup built on the new Universal Electric Vehicle platform. According to the report, the Fathom is expected to cost under $30,000 and will utilize a rear-motor layout with a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, though an optional front motor will be available for better performance.
Alongside the Fathom, Ford is developing a next-generation Lightning designed to solve the range anxiety often associated with electric towing.. This upcoming model aims for a total range exceeding 700 miles and is being engineered to handle the same heavy towing loads as its gasoline-powered F-150 counterparts.
Will hybrid-only Mavericks and subscription security alienate customers?
Ford faces potential customer pushback regarding its decision to move the Maverick XL and Lariat trims to hybrid-only models . By eliminating the inexpensive EcoBoost gasoline engine option, the company may alienate price-sensitive buyers who prefer traditional internal combustion engines.
Furthermore, Ford is leaning more heavily into subscription-based services, such as BlueCruise, which will now support 10,000-pound towing. The company is also transitioning Ford Security to a seven-year upfront purchase model, effectively turning the security package into a financed service. It remains to be seen whether these recurring revenue models will be embraced by truck owners or viewed as an unwelcome increase in the total cost of ownership.
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