Given the rapidly changing environment and after a review of product plans, Lincoln and Rivian have decided not to pursue the development of a Lincoln’s fully-electric vehicle based on Rivian’s skateboard platform.

The company’s commitment to Lincoln, Rivian and electrification remains unchanged, and Lincoln’s future plans will include an all-electric vehicle consistent with the brand’s Quiet Flight DNA.

For more information, see the questions and answers below.

Is this decision due to COVID-19?

We continue to review and adjust our business and product plans – as all prudent businesses do. As we moved through the development cycle, we determined that it would be better to pivot from the Rivian skateboard platform and focus our development efforts on Lincoln’s own fully-electric vehicle.

Does this mean that other Ford programs have been cancelled?

No. As we moved through the development cycle, and given the current environment, we determined that it would be better to focus our development efforts on Lincoln’s own fully electric vehicle.

Does Lincoln still plan to introduce fully electric vehicles into the lineup?

Yes. Lincoln’s future product plans include a distinct fully electric vehicle that is consistent with Lincoln’s Quiet Flight DNA.

When will you share more about the Lincoln’s BEV plans? What is the timing?

We look forward to sharing more details about Lincoln’s fully electric vehicle in the future.

Is Lincoln late to the game with electrification?

There never has been a better time to grow Lincoln’s electrified vehicle portfolio. In addition to the Aviator Grand Touring, we also will be launching the Corsair Grand Touring later this year.

Does Lincoln still plan to end production of the MKZ?

Yes. While the MKZ has been an amazing product for Lincoln and its customers over the years, we have been watching the premium midsize sedan segment closely and given the declining segment, we made the decision to end production of the Lincoln MKZ. As consumers shift to SUVs, we feel focusing on our new lineup of SUVs for our customers is best.

Will Ford continue to work with Rivian on a vehicle as part of the original equity investment?

Our partnership with Rivian is strong and while the Lincoln electric vehicle did not turn out to be the right opportunity, we continue to work closely with Rivian to assess the right opportunities to work together, including the development of a vehicle based on Rivian’s platform. There is also a lot we can learn from Rivian and the clean sheet approach they are taking to electric vehicles.