How do you design a $30,000 electric pickup? Inside Ford’s skunkworks.

In 2026, the landscape for electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States presents a fascinating paradox. With the current administration stepping back from promoting EV adoption and retracting the federal tax incentives that have supported sales for years, many manufacturers are facing tough choices. Tariffs have further inflated the costs associated with both vehicles and their components, making the transition to electric harder than ever for consumers. Notably, Honda recently scrapped plans for three nearly completed EV models, highlighting the challenges in the market. Amidst this uncertainty, Ford is forging ahead with its ambitious project, the "Universal Electric Vehicle," unveiled in late 2025. This innovative platform is designed to serve as the foundation for all of Ford's future electric models. Much of the development has taken place at the company’s Electric Vehicle Development Center (EVDC) located in Long Beach, California. Recently, Ars Technica was granted a tour of this unique facility that aims to revolutionize Ford's vehicle development process. Housed within a nondescript concrete structure in a modern business park near Long Beach Airport, the EVDC is positioned as Ford's answer to traditional vehicle development approaches. The concept of a "skunkworks"—a term originating from a secretive division of Lockheed Martin that began in the 1940s—serves as a model for innovation at Ford. This term, coined from a quirky reference in the "Lil' Abner" comic strip, symbolizes a dedicated space where groundbreaking ideas can flourish away from corporate constraints. The EVDC embodies this spirit, aiming to redefine how Ford approaches the development of future electric vehicles.