Ford Escape Returns as an EV on the UEV Platform — 2029 Launch Confirmed

Ford has confirmed the Escape will return as an all-electric crossover SUV based on the Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform, following the Fathom electric pickup that launches in 2027. The last gas-powered Escape rolled off the production line at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant last year, but the company's website now says the "SUV may be taking a breather for now" rather than declaring it discontinued.

CEO Jim Farley confirmed on Ford's Q3 earnings call that the Fathom launch "remains on track for the fourth quarter of next year," calling it "a breakthrough product" that is "highly capable, innovative, and affordable." Preorders open in early 2027, starting at $28,350 for the standard-range version — under $30,000 with the $1,595 delivery fee.

What we know about the Escape EV

According to Ford Authority, the electric Escape is expected to remain close in size to the outgoing gas model: 180.1 inches long, 74.1 inches wide (without mirrors), 66.1 inches tall, with a 106.7-inch wheelbase — roughly the footprint of a Toyota RAV4 or Hyundai Tucson.

The Fathom will be the first vehicle to integrate Apple Maps into its navigation system and will be BlueCruise-capable for hands-free driving. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and bidirectional charging capabilities. The UEV platform uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to reduce costs, and the Fathom will have a NACS charge port after prototypes were spotted charging at Tesla Superchargers.

Why the UEV platform matters

The Universal Electric Vehicle platform is designed to underpin vehicles ranging from compact crossovers to pickup trucks and vans. With the Fathom set to launch next year, the Escape EV is expected to be the second UEV-based model, giving Ford a flexible foundation for its next generation of affordable electric vehicles.

For Canadian buyers, this means a compact electric SUV from Ford is on the horizon — a segment where the brand has been absent since the Mach-E's production right-sizing. The Escape's return as an EV positions it directly against the Toyota RAV4 Prime, Hyundai Tucson Electric, and the incoming Chinese-brand crossovers entering the Canadian market under the new quota framework.

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