Celebrating the People Behind the Blue Oval: Sharonville Transmission Plant Family Day 2026

There is something exciting happening in the electric truck market, and the new Ford Fathom could be one of the most important electric vehicles to arrive in years. Ford is preparing to introduce an affordable electric pickup designed to bring the benefits of electric driving to people who do not necessarily want to spend a premium price on a new truck. The Ford Fathom is expected to start at just $28,350 with its standard range battery, putting it directly in conversation with some of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. Pre orders are expected to begin in early 2027, with the Fathom arriving as a 2028 model. For anyone who has been waiting for an electric truck that feels practical, approachable, and genuinely attainable, the Ford Fathom is a vehicle worth watching. A New Kind of Ford Truck Ford has a long history of building trucks for everyday Americans. From the legendary F Series to the compact Ford Maverick, the company understands that not every truck buyer needs a massive vehicle with a massive price tag. The Ford Fathom takes that idea into the electric era. With a footprint comparable to the Ford Maverick, the Fathom is designed to provide the versatility of a pickup without the size and expense associated with many larger electric trucks. It will seat five adults and is projected to provide more passenger volume than a Toyota RAV4. That combination could make the Fathom particularly appealing to people who want a truck for weekend projects, commuting, errands, outdoor activities, and everyday family life. The goal is not simply to create another electric pickup. Ford is trying to rethink what an affordable electric truck can be. The $28,350 Starting Price Gets Our Attention Price is one of the biggest reasons the Ford Fathom is generating so much interest. The starting MSRP of $28,350 with the standard range battery places the Fathom in a part of the market where electric pickups have been largely absent. Electric trucks have traditionally carried significant price tags, making them difficult for many buyers to justify. Ford appears to understand that affordability will be critical if electric vehicles are going to reach a much wider audience. The Fathom is not positioned as a luxury truck. Instead, it is designed around value, functionality, and thoughtful technology. That could ultimately be its biggest strength. Ford Fathom Performance Could Be Surprisingly Quick Affordable does not necessarily mean slow. Ford has set a target of 4.5 seconds for the Fathom to reach 60 mph. If the production truck delivers on that goal, it could provide a level of acceleration that feels downright impressive for an entry priced electric pickup. Instant electric torque should make the Fathom responsive around town, while the compact dimensions could make it easy to maneuver in crowded streets and parking lots. For buyers who want an electric truck that is enjoyable to drive without paying for a high-performance model, this could be a very appealing combination. Practicality Is at the Heart of the Fathom One of the things we find most interesting about the Ford Fathom is the attention being given to everyday usefulness. The truck will have both a frunk and a bed, giving owners multiple options for carrying gear. That matters because a pickup should be useful beyond simply transporting passengers. The Fathom is also expected to offer bidirectional power capability. That feature could make the truck useful away from home, whether someone needs power for equipment, outdoor activities, or other situations where access to electricity is limited. Ford is also giving the Fathom a digital key, adding another modern convenience to the package. Technology Without Losing Simplicity Inside, the Ford Fathom will feature a large, high resolution touchscreen and support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. One particularly interesting part of the Fathom is its integration with Apple Maps. Ford says the next generation BlueCruise system will work with Apple Maps to provide a more seamless experience from highway entrance to highway exit. Every Fathom will also be equipped with the hardware required for Ford's next generation of BlueCruise capability. Once activated, BlueCruise is designed to provide a hands off, eyes on driving experience on designated highways known as hands free Blue Zones. That technology could give the Fathom an impressive technology story without requiring buyers to step into a luxury price range. Built on Ford's Universal EV Platform Perhaps the most important part of the Ford Fathom is what sits underneath it. The Fathom will be the first vehicle built on Ford's new Universal EV Platform. The platform has been designed around simplicity and cost efficiency, using fewer parts and a 400-volt electrical architecture. This is important because the Fathom is not supposed to be a one-off experiment. Ford says the Universal EV Platform will eventually support a range of affordable electric vehicles, including vans, three row SUVs, and smaller B segment vehicles. The Fathom is effectively the beginning of a much larger electric vehicle strategy. The Slate Truck Competition The Ford Fathom will enter a market that is also attracting attention from the Slate Truck. The Slate is expected to target buyers looking for a very affordable electric pickup, making it an obvious competitor for the Fathom. Ford may have an advantage when it comes to standard equipment. While both trucks are focused heavily on affordability, the Fathom is expected to include features such as power windows, an audio system, modern connectivity, and advanced driver assistance hardware. That could make the Ford Fathom feel more like a conventional vehicle while still delivering an accessible price. Why We Are Excited About the Ford Fathom The excitement surrounding the Ford Fathom goes beyond its price. This truck represents a shift in how Ford approaches electric vehicles. Instead of simply adding expensive technology to existing vehicle formulas, Ford is designing a new platform around efficiency, simplicity, and affordability. Ford has even described the arrival of the Fathom as a Model T moment for the company. That is a big statement, but the idea behind it is easy to understand. The original Model T helped make automobile ownership accessible to a much broader audience. Ford now appears to believe the Fathom can play a similar role for electric transportation. With a starting price of $28,350, seating for five, a truck bed, a frunk, bidirectional power, digital key technology, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available BlueCruise capability, the Ford Fathom has an intriguing formula. There is still plenty we do not know, including important details about range, towing, payload, charging speed, and final equipment levels. Those details will matter. But the basic idea is incredibly promising. The Ford Fathom could be the electric pickup that makes going electric feel less like a compromise and more like a smart decision for everyday drivers. If Ford delivers on its promises, this compact electric truck could become one of the most interesting new vehicles of 2028. And that is exactly why we cannot wait to see it on the road.

Every leadership opportunity eventually reaches a finish line. The real question is what happens afterward. For Queen City Ford's General Manager Josh Williams, that answer is now beginning to take shape following his graduation from Ford Motor Company's Rising Leaders program. When we first shared news of Josh's selection into the program, the focus was on the opportunity ahead. Being chosen as one of only twenty participants in the cohort was an accomplishment in itself. It reflected years of hard work, leadership development, and a commitment to excellence within the automotive industry. Today, the focus shifts from the selection process to the experience itself and the value it created. Over the course of the program, Josh joined fellow dealership leaders from across the country in a series of advanced leadership sessions designed to prepare participants for the future of automotive retail. The experience combined executive engagement, operational learning, strategic discussions, and immersive opportunities that offered participants a unique perspective on the Ford organization. For many professionals, leadership development programs are about gaining knowledge. For Josh, this experience became something much larger. "Being a part of the Rising Leaders program has been the best experience of my professional career," he shared. That statement carries significant weight from someone who has participated in numerous leadership and professional development programs throughout his career. The reason becomes clear as he reflects on the people who shared the experience alongside him. "I have been a part of some great programs in the past and I can confidently say this was the most talented group of individuals I have ever worked with." Bringing together accomplished leaders from different markets and backgrounds created opportunities for meaningful conversations that challenged assumptions, sparked new ideas, and encouraged fresh thinking. Those discussions often became the foundation for lasting professional relationships. "I made lifelong connections with the people in this program as well as executives at Ford Motor Company." Connections like those matter because leadership is constantly evolving. Markets change. Customer expectations shift. New technologies emerge. Having access to a trusted network of peers and mentors helps leaders continue growing long after a program concludes. The Rising Leaders experience also offered participants a closer look at Ford's future. Through exclusive access and unique learning opportunities, participants gained insights into innovation, strategy, and the long term vision driving one of the most recognizable brands in the automotive industry. That perspective is invaluable. Understanding where the industry is heading helps leaders make better decisions today while preparing their organizations for tomorrow. At the Mark William's Automotive Group, that preparation directly benefits both employees and customers. The knowledge gained through the program helps strengthen leadership practices, support team development, and foster a culture focused on continuous improvement. It creates opportunities to identify new ideas while remaining committed to the values that have always guided the dealership. Programs like Rising Leaders exist because strong organizations require strong leaders. Not leaders who believe they have all the answers, but leaders who remain curious, adaptable, and committed to growth. Josh's graduation represents exactly that kind of commitment. It demonstrates a willingness to invest time, energy, and effort into becoming a better leader for the benefit of employees, customers, and the community. As he looks ahead, Josh remains focused on the future. "I am very proud to be a future Ford dealer and I am excited to carry our Auto Group into the future." Those words capture the spirit of this achievement. Graduation is often viewed as the end of a journey. In reality, it is the beginning of applying everything that has been learned. The Rising Leaders program may be complete, but the impact of the experience will continue shaping decisions, relationships, and opportunities for years to come. That is what makes this accomplishment worth celebrating. The journey started with being selected. The real story begins with what happens next.

When it comes to farm life, reliability and performance are not luxuries, they are necessities. Whether hauling feed, pulling trailers, or navigating muddy pastures, farmers need a truck that can rise to every challenge. That is where the Ford Super Duty lineup steps in, proving repeatedly why it remains one of the top choices for hardworking agricultural professionals across the country. Here are five reasons the Ford Super Duty dominates on the farm and why it continues to be the go-to truck for those who rely on strength, stamina, and smart engineering. 1. Unmatched Towing and Hauling Capability One of the most important tasks on any farm is moving heavy loads. Whether it is towing a livestock trailer, transporting equipment, or delivering hay bales across a muddy field, the Ford Super Duty handles it all without breaking a sweat. With the right configuration, the Super Duty can tow up to 40,000 pounds with a gooseneck trailer and haul over 8,000 pounds of payload in the bed. These numbers speak to more than just muscle they speak to efficiency. When a farmer can do more in one trip, they save time and fuel. This towing capacity is backed by a high-strength steel frame, an advanced trailer hitch system, and smart towing features like trailer sway control and onboard trailer diagnostics. Simply put, it is built to work as hard as the people who own it. 2. Durable Design Built for Rough Conditions Farm environments are tough. The roads are rarely paved, the weather is unpredictable, and the work is nonstop. The Ford Super Duty is not a truck built for city streets or weekend adventures. It is engineered to survive and thrive in places where other vehicles would falter. From its military-grade aluminum-alloy body to its reinforced undercarriage and rugged suspension, the Super Duty is designed to take a beating. Farmers can drive it through muddy fields, gravel roads, or flooded pastures without hesitation. The truck's ground clearance, optional skid plates, and available off-road packages provide extra confidence when driving in less-than-ideal conditions. It is this rugged design that makes the Super Duty a long-term investment rather than just another tool in the shed. 3. Smart Technology That Supports the Job While raw power and durability are important, today's farmers also benefit from cutting-edge technology that makes their jobs easier and more efficient. The Ford Super Duty brings a suite of smart features that enhance both productivity and safety. One standout is the Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which allows drivers to steer trailers with a knob on the dashboard instead of the steering wheel. This is a game-changer when backing up large loads into tight spaces, which is a common challenge on farms. The truck also includes a 360-degree camera system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, onboard Wi-Fi, and available Ford Co-Pilot360 features like pre-collision assistance and adaptive cruise control. These tools do not just add convenience, they add value by helping farmers stay connected, aware, and in control at all times. 4. A Range of Engine Options for Any Task Not every farm is the same. Some farmers work vast acres of land and move heavy machinery daily. Others might need a reliable truck for light-duty work and local hauling. The beauty of the Ford Super Duty is that it offers multiple engine options to fit every kind of farm. You can choose from several powerful engines, including the legendary 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel, which delivers incredible torque for towing and hauling. There is also a 7.3-liter V8 gas engine, known for its durability and responsiveness, especially in cold weather or start-stop conditions. This variety ensures that farmers can select the right powertrain for their specific needs without overpaying for features they do not need. It is about giving owners control over how they use their trucks and maximizing their return on investment. 5. Long-Term Reliability and Low Maintenance Farmers cannot afford to have their trucks in the shop when there is work to be done. That is why reliability is one of the most important factors in a farm vehicle. The Ford Super Duty has a long-standing reputation for dependability, often logging hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance. It is not just about the powertrain. Ford engineers use every part of the truck from the transmission to the electrical system to endure extreme use. Routine maintenance is simple and accessible, and the availability of parts is excellent thanks to Ford's extensive dealer network. Additionally, Ford provides comprehensive warranty coverage, including a five-year powertrain warranty and optional extended service plans. For farmers who depend on their trucks every single day, knowing that the Super Duty will start up, show up, and finish the job is peace of mind worth investing in. Why the Super Duty Reigns Supreme on the Farm Every year, truck manufacturers make bold claims about strength, durability, and innovation. But on the farm, only the strongest survive and only the most reliable thrive. The Ford Super Duty has earned its place as a leader by backing up its features with real-world performance and enduring value. From pulling trailers across pastureland to acting as a mobile office in the field, the Super Duty proves its worth time and again. For many farmers, it is not just a vehicle. It is a partner in productivity. Final Thoughts Farming is more than a job. It is a lifestyle rooted in resilience, hard work, and self-reliance. The tools a farmer uses must reflect those same qualities. With its unmatched towing power, tough construction, intelligent features, versatile engine choices, and proven reliability, the Ford Super Duty is more than just another truck on the market. It is the backbone of the modern farm. If you are looking for a truck that can keep up with your demands, help you work smarter, and last for years to come, it is clear why so many farmers say: Nothing beats a Super Duty. Shop Super Duties now at Beechmont Ford!