Over the last several months, Lincoln has been diligently working on a luxury electric vehicle based on the Rivian skateboard platform. This innovative platform, which Lincoln gained access to through Ford’s significant investment in Rivian, promised to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle market. However, Lincoln has now informed dealers that it is canceling the electric vehicle project, citing the “current environment.”
The Impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic
Presumably, the “current environment” refers to the coronavirus pandemic and the widespread disruption it has caused in the automotive industry globally. The pandemic has led to factory shutdowns, supply chain interruptions, and a significant drop in consumer demand for new vehicles. These challenges have forced many automakers to reassess their strategies and delay or cancel projects. Lincoln had previously promised that the electric vehicle would launch in 2022, a timeline that now seems untenable given the current circumstances.
Despite this setback, Lincoln has emphasized that it still intends to build an electric vehicle. However, it will no longer pursue the development of this vehicle in collaboration with Rivian. This decision marks a significant shift in Lincoln’s strategy, as the partnership with Rivian was seen as a key component of its electrification plans.
Future Prospects for Lincoln’s Electric Vehicles
Lincoln has stated that its strategic commitment to Rivian and electrification remains unchanged. This suggests that while the specific project has been canceled, the broader partnership and the goal of producing electric vehicles are still very much alive. With Lincoln stepping away from the Rivian skateboard platform, speculation has arisen about the potential platforms for its future electric vehicles.
One possibility is that Lincoln’s future EVs could be built on the Mustang Mach-E platform. The Mustang Mach-E, Ford’s all-electric SUV, has been well-received and could provide a solid foundation for a luxury electric vehicle. This platform offers a range of configurations and performance options, making it a versatile choice for Lincoln’s needs.
Another potential platform is the one being developed for the upcoming electric F-150. This platform is designed to support the heavy-duty requirements of a pickup truck, which could translate well to a larger luxury SUV or crossover. The electric F-150 is expected to offer impressive range and performance, features that would be attractive in a Lincoln-branded vehicle.
In addition to these platforms, Lincoln may also explore other options within Ford’s extensive portfolio of electric vehicle technologies. Ford has been investing heavily in electrification, with plans to introduce a range of electric and hybrid models across its brands. This investment could provide Lincoln with access to cutting-edge technology and resources to develop its own unique electric vehicles.
The cancellation of the Rivian-based project is undoubtedly a setback for Lincoln, but it also presents an opportunity to reassess and refine its approach to electrification. By leveraging Ford’s existing platforms and technologies, Lincoln can continue to pursue its goal of producing luxury electric vehicles that meet the evolving needs and expectations of consumers.
In conclusion, while the cancellation of the Rivian-based electric vehicle project is disappointing, it does not signal the end of Lincoln’s electrification efforts. The company remains committed to developing electric vehicles and will likely explore alternative platforms and technologies to achieve this goal. The challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic have forced many automakers to adapt and innovate, and Lincoln is no exception. By staying flexible and leveraging its partnership with Ford, Lincoln can continue to move forward in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
via Autoblog
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