DAILY: Ford’s UEV Platform, France BEV Sales Jump and Ferrari Luce Gets Closer | 17 Feb 2026
About this episode
Ford reveals its ambitious Universal EV (UEV) platform aiming to produce a $30,000 midsize electric pickup with advanced aerodynamics and cost-saving innovations like domestic prismatic LFP batteries and large-scale unicasting. France sees a 50% year-on-year surge in BEV sales, driven by a social leasing scheme targeting low-income earners with strong support for French brands. Ferrari's first electric model, the Luce, is set for a May reveal, featuring a 1,000-hp four-motor setup and design led by former Apple chief Johnny Ive. The episode also touches on EU proposals for affordable city EVs and ongoing developments in China’s EV market.
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FORD SETS OUT UEV PLATFORM FOR $30,000 PICKUP https://evne.ws/4kI7bLn
FORD REVEALS UEV PLATFORM FOR £23,800 PICKUP https://evne.ws/4s5fu6p
FRANCE BEV SALES JUMP 50% ON SOCIAL LEASING https://evne.ws/4kOxRtY
FERRARI LUCE EV SET FOR MAY REVEAL https://evne.ws/4tLwUX6
EU FLOATS M1E CLASS FOR CHEAPER CITY EVS https://evne.ws/4tKxdBF
MICROLINO LAUNCHES IN NORWAY WITH LOCAL PARTNER https://evne.ws/3Omlb1c
AUDI SAYS CONCEPT C PRODUCTION CAR STAYS ON TRACK https://evne.ws/4aLq1N1
BATTERY RECYCLING RACES FOR SCALE https://evne.ws/40i9s6o
HELIX BUILT 1,000HP MOTOR SET FOR SPÉIRLING https://evne.ws/4u1aVvN
TESLA ROBOTAXI PROMISES SHRINK IN AUSTIN https://evne.ws/4aJNm1H
VW FITS ID. BUZZ WITH NEW LOAD PARTITION https://evne.ws/4aYBERT
WOMEN WEIGH SAFETY WHEN CHOOSING EV CHARGERS https://evne.ws/3Mjn1iP
Ferrari Luce
"...platform, France's Bev Sales Jump and the Ferrari Luce gets closer. Plus, they tuned later in the show."
The Ferrari Luce is a car from Ferrari that might be new or coming soon. Ferrari is starting to make electric cars, and this model could be part of that change. Not much is known about it yet.
The Ferrari Luce is a less commonly known or possibly upcoming Ferrari model, likely referring to a new or concept vehicle as Ferrari expands its lineup. Its mention in the context of BEV (battery electric vehicle) sales suggests Ferrari’s gradual move towards electrification. Details remain limited, indicating it might be a future release.
BYD
"Over on EV News China today, we're talking about BYD and Geely"
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric cars and batteries and is growing fast.
BYD is a Chinese automaker specializing in electric vehicles and batteries, known for rapid growth in EV markets.
Geely
"Over on EV News China today, we're talking about BYD and Geely"
Geely is a big car company from China that owns many car brands and makes electric cars.
Geely is a large Chinese automotive company that owns several brands and is expanding its electric vehicle production.
solid state battery
"China cutting tariffs and solid state battery factories."
Solid state batteries are a new kind of battery that use solid materials inside instead of liquid, making them safer and able to hold more power for electric cars.
Solid state batteries use a solid electrolyte instead of liquid, offering higher energy density, improved safety, and faster charging compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
UEV
"Now, let's get into this big news, big video released by Ford setting out their UEV platform."
UEV is a name Ford gave to their new way of building electric cars and trucks using the same basic parts.
UEV stands for Universal Electric Vehicle, referring to Ford's new electric vehicle platform aiming to underpin multiple future EV models.
universal EV platform
"Ford's unveiled what it calls the universal EV platform, UEV, and CEO Jim Farley isn't being subtle about the ambition."
It's a basic design that Ford will use to build many different electric cars and trucks, making it easier and cheaper to make them.
A universal EV platform is a standardized electric vehicle architecture designed to be used across multiple models, helping manufacturers reduce costs and streamline production.
aerodynamics
"Aerodynamics sit at the heart of Ford's pitch. The company says it's recruited more than half of its aero team from the world of Formula One"
Aerodynamics is about how air moves around a car or truck, helping it go faster and use less fuel.
Aerodynamics refers to how air flows around a vehicle, affecting its efficiency, stability, and performance. Better aerodynamics reduce drag, improving fuel economy and speed.
Formula One
"The company says it's recruited more than half of its aero team from the world of Formula One and claims the new truck is 15% more aerodynamically efficient than the nearest pickup on the market."
Formula One is a type of very fast car racing where the cars are designed to be super aerodynamic and quick.
Formula One is the highest class of international single-seater auto racing, known for cutting-edge technology and aerodynamic expertise.
pickup
"and claims the new truck is 15% more aerodynamically efficient than the nearest pickup on the market. Again, nobody mentioned the maverick."
A pickup is a truck with a space in the back to carry things.
A pickup is a type of light-duty truck with an enclosed cab and an open cargo area with low sides and tailgate.
Ford Maverick
"...pickup on the market. Again, nobody mentioned the maverick. Ford argues that if you apply that advantage"
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that’s easy to drive and good on gas. It’s designed for people who want a pickup but don’t need a big, heavy one. It’s popular because it’s practical and affordable.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that offers a practical and efficient alternative in the pickup market. It is notable for its unibody construction and standard hybrid powertrain, making it appealing for urban and light-duty use. Its mention highlights Ford's strategy to capture buyers looking for a smaller, more economical truck.
aero drag
"At highway speeds where aero drag dominates, the gain is up to 30%."
Aero drag is the air pushing against a car when it moves, making it harder to go fast and use less fuel.
Aerodynamic drag, or aero drag, is the resistance air exerts on a moving vehicle, affecting fuel efficiency and performance especially at higher speeds.
teardrop profile
"The roofline uses a teardrop profile to create what Ford calls a virtual surface for air to flow over,"
A teardrop shape is like a water drop shape that helps air flow smoothly around a car so it uses less gas.
A teardrop profile is an aerodynamic shape designed to reduce air resistance by allowing air to flow smoothly over the surface, improving efficiency.
battery pack
"On cost and weight, Ford points to the battery pack as the central problem to solve."
The battery pack is like the car's big rechargeable battery that makes it go. It costs a lot and weighs a lot, so it's important for how much the car costs and how heavy it is.
The battery pack in an electric vehicle stores electrical energy to power the motor. It is a major component affecting the vehicle's cost and weight, often comprising a significant portion of both.
LFP (lithium iron phosphate)
"Ford's answer is to become the first US automaker to manufacture a prismatic LFP, lithium iron phosphate. That's the type of chemistry."
LFP is a kind of battery that is safer and cheaper for electric cars but doesn’t hold as much power as some others.
LFP stands for lithium iron phosphate, a type of lithium-ion battery chemistry known for its safety, longevity, and lower cost compared to nickel-based batteries, though with slightly lower energy density.
Tesla Model
"Ford claims the resulting truck will have a lower total cost of ownership than a Tesla Model Y and more interior space"
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that many people like because it’s fast and has a long driving range.
The Tesla Model Y is a popular all-electric compact SUV known for its performance, range, and advanced technology features.
Toyota RAV4
"than a Toyota RAV4."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that many people like because it is reliable and uses fuel efficiently. It's a popular car for families and daily driving.
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular compact crossover SUV known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has been a strong seller globally and is often used as a benchmark in the SUV segment.
unicasting
"Ford says it will use large-scale unicasting, the same principle that's been used in other industries."
Unicasting means making big parts of a car, like the body, in one single piece instead of many small pieces. This helps make cars faster and cheaper to build.
Unicasting refers to the manufacturing process of creating large single-piece components, such as car body panels, using massive casting machines called giga presses. This reduces the number of parts and complexity in vehicle assembly.
giga presses
"Tesla kind of popularized it by buying in those giga presses to dramatically cut the complexity of the body structure."
Giga presses are giant machines that make big parts of a car in one piece, which helps build cars faster and cheaper.
Giga presses are very large high-pressure die casting machines used to create huge single-piece metal parts for vehicles, such as chassis or body components. They help reduce complexity and manufacturing costs.
BEV
"France registered last month in January, 33,302 full bevs."
A BEV is a car that runs only on electricity stored in batteries, with no gas engine at all.
BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle, which is a type of electric vehicle powered entirely by batteries without an internal combustion engine.
new car market
"Pure EVs had a 25.3% share of the new car market in the private passenger car segment."
The new car market means people buying brand-new cars, not used ones.
The new car market refers to the sales and registrations of brand-new vehicles, as opposed to used cars.
private passenger car segment
"Pure EVs had a 25.3% share of the new car market in the private passenger car segment."
This means cars that people buy for themselves, not for businesses or companies.
This segment refers to cars registered for use by private individuals rather than commercial or fleet purposes.
Renault 5
"... the scheme. The top seven bev models, led by the Renault 5 Renault, Scenic Peugeot 208."
The Renault 5 is a small car that used to be popular a long time ago. Now, Renault has made a new version that runs on electricity instead of gas. It’s a popular choice for people who want a simple, electric car for city driving.
The Renault 5 is a classic compact hatchback that has been reintroduced as an electric vehicle, marking Renault’s commitment to affordable urban EVs. It is leading sales among battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in certain markets, reflecting its popularity and Renault’s strong position in the EV segment. The new Renault 5 blends nostalgic design with modern electric technology.
Peugeot 208
"... bev models, led by the Renault 5 Renault, Scenic Peugeot 208. Also in the top 10, Volkswagen and the Scotta LR..."
The Peugeot 208 GTI is a small, sporty car that’s fun to drive and good for everyday use. It’s faster and more exciting than the regular version of the 208. People like it because it’s practical but also sporty.
The Peugeot 208 GTI is a sporty version of the popular 208 hatchback, known for its spirited performance and sharp handling. It often competes in the hot hatch segment and is recognized for combining everyday usability with fun driving dynamics. Its mention alongside electric vehicle sales highlights its role in Peugeot’s broader lineup.
EV
"because does Ferrari need to go EV? 1,000% no. Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, do they need to go EV? 1,000% no."
An EV is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas, so it doesn't need fuel like regular cars.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a car powered entirely or primarily by electric batteries instead of gasoline or diesel.
Bugatti
"Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, do they need to go EV?"
Bugatti makes super fast and very expensive cars that only a few people can buy.
Bugatti is a French luxury car manufacturer famous for building some of the fastest and most exclusive hypercars in the world.
Lamborghini
"Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, do they need to go EV?"
Lamborghini makes very fast and flashy sports cars that many people dream of owning.
Lamborghini is an Italian brand known for producing exotic, high-performance supercars with striking designs.
Porsche Cayman
"...lanned electric vehicles like the 718 Boxster and Cayman, both co-developed within Volkswagen."
The Porsche Cayman is a small, sporty car with a hard roof. It’s similar to the Boxster but looks a bit different. Porsche wants to make an electric version that runs on batteries instead of gas.
The Porsche Cayman is a two-seater sports coupe closely related to the Boxster but with a fixed roof. Like the Boxster, it is planned to have an electric version developed with Volkswagen, marking Porsche’s expansion into electric sports cars. This collaboration is part of Volkswagen Group’s broader electrification strategy.
Porsche Boxster
"... Porsche's planned electric vehicles like the 718 Boxster and Cayman, both co-developed within Volkswagen."
The Porsche Boxster is a sporty car that’s fun to drive because its engine is in the middle, which helps it handle well. Porsche is planning to make an electric version, which means it will run on batteries instead of gas.
The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine sports car known for its balanced handling and performance. The mention of an electric version indicates Porsche's move towards electrification, as the 718 Boxster is planned to be co-developed with Volkswagen for future electric models. This represents a significant shift for Porsche’s iconic roadster lineup.
Audi
"But the Audi CEO kind of addressing the Porsche issue,"
Audi is a company that makes fancy cars with lots of technology and all-wheel drive, which helps the car drive better in different conditions.
Audi is a German luxury car manufacturer known for its advanced technology, quattro all-wheel drive system, and a range of vehicles from sedans to SUVs and sports cars.
Hyundai
"They're working with companies already, a Luxembourg company called R3 with Hyundai and Jaguar"
Hyundai is a company that makes cars, including electric ones.
Hyundai is a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including electric cars.
Jaguar
"They're working with companies already, a Luxembourg company called R3 with Hyundai and Jaguar"
Jaguar is a car company from Britain that makes fancy and fast cars, including electric ones.
Jaguar is a British luxury car manufacturer that produces performance and electric vehicles.
hill climb
"It went up the Goodwood Festival of Speed, hill climb in record time. Also it's done Laguna Saker, hill climb"
Hill climb means racing a car up a hill as fast as you can, trying to get the best time.
A hill climb is a type of motorsport where drivers race individually against the clock to ascend a steep, winding course as fast as possible.
Top Gear test track
"and the top gear test track, setting the fastest times."
The Top Gear test track is a special race track where cars are tested to see how fast and well they can drive.
The Top Gear test track is a circuit used by the British TV show Top Gear to test cars' performance and lap times.
kill switch
"put safety monitors in the passenger seat with their finger on a kill switch."
A kill switch is a button or control that can quickly turn off a car or machine if there is a problem, to keep people safe.
A kill switch is a safety feature that allows an operator to immediately shut down a vehicle or system in case of emergency. In the context of semi-autonomous or autonomous vehicles, a kill switch can stop the car if something goes wrong.
Waymo
"They pointed out the Waymo runs 2,500 robotaxes and in Austin alone, 200."
Waymo is a company that makes self-driving cars and runs robotaxis that can take people places without a driver.
Waymo is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. focused on developing autonomous driving technology, operating one of the largest fleets of robotaxis in the United States.
autopilot
"The head of autopilot,"
Autopilot is a feature in Tesla cars that helps the car drive itself in some ways, like staying in the lane and keeping distance from other cars.
Autopilot is Tesla's advanced driver-assistance system that provides semi-autonomous driving features such as lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-aware cruise control.
Volkswagen Id Buzz
"...lkswagen's introduced a factory partition for the ID buzz. The five seat model developed as a factory optio..."
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric van that looks like the old VW bus many people remember. It runs on batteries and can carry several people. You can choose different layouts inside depending on what you need.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric van inspired by the classic VW Microbus, offering modern electric mobility with a nostalgic design. It is available in multiple seating configurations, including a five-seat model, and represents Volkswagen’s push into electric passenger vehicles. Its factory partition option suggests customization for different uses.
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