Ford CEO Jim Farley revealed that the company's secret Skunk Works team developed the Ultra Efficient Vehicle (UEV) platform, which is now reshaping not only EVs but also the design and performance of traditional gasoline and diesel cars, improving fuel economy by up to 15% on new Explorer and Edge models.
Ford CEO Jim Farley has disclosed that the automaker’s secretive Skunk Works team developed a new السيارات الكهربائية platform called UEV (Ultra Efficient Vehicle), and its influence extends far beyond EVs. According to a report by Carscoops, the UEV platform is now serving as an engineering blueprint for Ford’s entire lineup, including internal combustion engine vehicles.
What is the UEV Platform and Why Does It Matter?
The UEV platform was originally designed by a small, independent team within Ford known as Skunk Works, with the goal of achieving maximum efficiency. Farley explained in an interview that this platform has become an “engineering model” that benefits every development team in the company, including those working on traditional cars.
How Does the UEV Platform Affect Gas Cars?
New internal combustion engine vehicles benefit from UEV technologies in three key areas: ultra-slippery aerodynamics, weight reduction using lightweight materials, and improved energy management systems. For example, some of these improvements have already been applied to the new Ford Explorer and Edge, resulting in fuel economy gains of up to 15%.
Will Ford Continue Producing Traditional Cars?
Yes, Farley confirmed that Ford will continue producing internal combustion engine vehicles for years to come, but with significant improvements borrowed from EV technologies. He added, “We are not replacing gasoline engines; we are making them better thanks to what we learned from developing electric vehicles.”
When Will the First UEV-Enhanced Gas Car Arrive?
The first traditional vehicles built on UEV technologies are expected to appear in 2027, with the next-generation Ford F-150 and Ford Mustang. These models will feature more aerodynamic designs and lighter structures, significantly improving performance and efficiency.
What Does This Mean for the Middle East?
For Gulf buyers, the improved fuel efficiency is particularly relevant given the region’s hot climate, which can strain engine performance and air conditioning systems. Lighter, more aerodynamic vehicles also tend to handle better in sand and wind conditions. Ford’s strategy ensures that popular models like the Explorer and F-150 remain competitive in markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where gasoline vehicles still dominate.
Conclusion
Ford’s approach to EV development is not just about competing in the EV market but about raising the bar for all its vehicles. By transferring cutting-edge efficiency technologies from the UEV platform to gasoline and diesel models, Ford is redefining what a traditional car can be in the modern era.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UEV platform in Ford cars?
The UEV platform is an ultra-efficient electric vehicle platform developed by Ford's secret Skunk Works team. Originally designed for EVs, it now serves as an engineering model to improve the performance and efficiency of gasoline and diesel cars as well.
Will Ford stop producing gas cars?
No, CEO Jim Farley confirmed that Ford will continue producing gas cars for years to come, but they will incorporate technologies borrowed from EVs to improve fuel efficiency and performance.
When will the first traditional car with UEV tech be released?
The first traditional vehicles built on UEV technologies are expected in 2027, with the next-generation Ford F-150 and Ford Mustang featuring aerodynamic designs and lighter structures.
How much fuel economy improvement can I expect?
Ford has already achieved up to 15% improvement in fuel economy on the new Explorer and Edge models by applying UEV-derived technologies.
Sources
- Carscoops — Ford’s EV Skunk Works Tech Is Quietly Reshaping The Gas Lineup Too
