Ford is investing $2 billion to overhaul its Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky for production of the new Fathom midsize electric pickup. The Fathom will be the first vehicle built on Ford’s Universal EV Platform, with prototype production scheduled for early 2027 and customer production later in the year. Preorders are expected to open in early 2027, with a starting MSRP of $28,350 for the standard-range model.

A major part of the investment is Ford’s new “assembly tree” production system, which allows the front, rear, and structural battery sections of the vehicle to be assembled separately before being joined. Ford expects the process to reduce net assembly time by about 15% while increasing automation and manufacturing efficiency. For fleets, the Fathom’s low starting price, five-passenger capacity, cargo bed, front trunk, and bidirectional power capability could make it an attractive option for light-duty applications. Range, payload, charging performance, and fleet pricing will be key details to watch ahead of its 2027 launch.