DEARBORN, MI — Lincoln Motor Company, the luxury brand under Ford, announced it will work with Rivian to develop an “all-new” electric vehicle. This electric vehicle, or at least the intent to build it, was announced in April as part of Ford’s $500 million investment in Rivian. At the time, it wasn’t clear what that vehicle would be and under what brand.
Lincoln has produced two plug-in hybrid vehicles, the Aviator and Corsair Grand Touring, which it unveiled in November at the LA Auto Show. However, Lincoln never produced an all-electric vehicle. The Lincoln battery electric vehicle will be built off of Rivian’s flexible skateboard platform.
“Working with Rivian marks a pivotal point for Lincoln as we move toward a future that includes fully electric vehicles,” says Joy Falotico, president of the Lincoln Motor Company. “This vehicle will take Quiet Flight to a new place — zero emissions, effortless performance and connected and intuitive technology. It’s going to be stunning.”
Lincoln has been focused on SUVs over the past three years, a strategy that has helped global SUV sales grow 7% year over year, according to the company. Lincoln didn’t say what kind of vehicle Rivian will build, but based on its trajectory the past several years it will likely be an SUV.
The addition of the luxury EV will mark the end of the MKZ sedan. Production of the MKZ sedan will end this year in order for the Hermosillo assembly plant in Mexico to prepare for production of new Ford vehicles.