The Ford Escape may return as an EV based on the UEV platform [Update] – Electrek

Ford pulled the plug on the Escape last year after a 25-year run, but the crossover SUV could return as an EV on the new UEV platform.While Ford is preparing to launch the Fathom, its first vehicle based on the Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform in 2027, the company is already hinting at what could be its second UEV-based model.The last gas-powered Escape models rolled off the production line at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant as it retooled the facility to prepare for the new Fathom electric pickup.Typically, when Ford retires a model, its landing page says something like “we’re discontinuing” it, or “it’s the end of the road,” such as with the Edge SUV.Meanwhile, the Escape landing page says the “SUV may be taking a breather for now,” declaring the “Ford Escape is tapping the brakes,” with no mention of it being discontinued. Instead, the site directs you to check out Ford’s other vehicles while it’s on hiatus.According to Ford Authority, the Escape will return as an all-electric crossover SUV based on the UEV platform.Update 10/29/2026: A Ford spokesperson told Electrek that the Ford Authority report is pure speculation and the company has not announced the Escape will return as an EV or that it will be based on the UEV platform.If it does come to life, the Ford Escape EV would likely remain close in size to the outgoing gas model, which measures 180.1″ long, 74.1″ wide (without mirrors), and 66.1″ tall, with a 106.7″ wheelbase. That’s about the size of other compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson.The report claimed the electric Escape is expected to enter production at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant in 2029, possibly making it the second vehicle based on its UEV platform, following the Fathom pickup.CEO Jim Farley confirmed on Ford’s Q3 earnings call on Wednesday that the Fathom launch “remains on track for the fourth quarter of next year.”The Fathom is “a breakthrough product,” Farley said, adding the pickup is highly capable, innovative, and affordable.Ford will open preorders for the Fathom in early 2027, starting at $28,350 for the standard-range version. With the $1,595 delivery fee, Ford’s electric pickup will still start under $30,000, which the company says will be “right in the heart of the market.”The Fathom will be the first vehicle to integrate Apple Maps into its navigation system. It will also be BlueCruise-capable for hands-free driving. Other standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus bidirectional charging capabilities.Ford claims the electric pickup will offer more interior space than a Toyota RAV4, not including the added bed and frunk (front trunk).2029 seems a little slow, but I’m glad Ford is still pushing ahead with EV plans.Inside, the Fathom has a “large touchscreen display” with an easy-to-use navigation system using Apple Maps.Ford has yet to reveal battery specs or range, but the UEV platform uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to reduce costs. We also know the Fathom will have an NACS charge port after a few prototypes were spotted charging at a Tesla Supercharger a few months ago.The UEV platform is flexible enough to underpin vehicles ranging from compact crossovers to pickup trucks and vans, so an electric Escape would make sense.With the Fathom set to launch next year, we should learn more about the potential Ford Escape EV soon. Check back for updates.FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Subscribe to Electrek on YouTube for exclusive videos and subscribe to the podcast.Peter Johnson is covering the auto industry’s step-by-step transformation to electric vehicles. He is an experienced investor, financial writer, and EV enthusiast. His enthusiasm for electric vehicles, primarily Tesla, is a significant reason he pursued a career in investments. If he isn’t telling you about his latest 10K findings, you can find him enjoying the outdoors or exercisingsource