Photo Credit: iStockFord has attached an unusually low starting price to its next EV. The company says the Fathom, a midsize electric pickup, will open at $28,350, with a $1,595 delivery charge added on top.As Electrek reported, early 2027 is the target launch window for the truck, which will be the debut model on Ford's new Universal EV Platform.What happened?With the name now official, Ford says "Fathom" was selected for what it represents rather than as just another model label. AdvertisementAdvertisement"We named it Fathom because real depth comes from deeply understanding how you live," the automaker wrote. "Inspired by the classic measure of open arms, Fathom welcomes you in with an expansive interior and technology that adapts on the fly."The midsize pickup is being positioned as a lower-cost EV, with a base price that lands at about $30,000 before fees.The standard equipment list is extensive. Ford says buyers will get a high-resolution touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, BlueCruise, two-way charging, and a digital key.Ford also says the passenger compartment by itself offers more room than a Toyota RAV4, without even counting the bed or the front trunk. AdvertisementAdvertisementThe company added that the Fathom will be the first vehicle to include Apple Maps built in, using the nav screen for EV route planning and battery preconditioning. Test units have been seen with an integrated NACS charge port, per Electrek.Why does it matter?A sub-$30,000 electric pickup would be unusual in a segment where trucks are typically pricey and battery-powered versions have mostly stayed beyond the reach of many shoppers. If Ford can keep the Fathom near its stated figure, it could open up truck ownership to people who want capability without committing to a luxury-size monthly bill. It would also position it directly against the Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Auto.Running costs can also favor EVs. Electricity is often cheaper than gasoline for everyday driving, and electric models usually need less regular upkeep because there are no oil changes and fewer service-prone moving parts.AdvertisementAdvertisementIf the long-awaited Fathom truly arrives with at least 300 miles of range plus standard tech and charging equipment, it could become one of the more practical mainstream electric truck choices. The big asterisk is price. Ford's number leaves out dealer markups or add-ons that can quickly inflate what looks like an affordable sticker.What's being done?Ford says the way to hit that target price is by stripping complexity out of production. To lower costs while improving efficiency and preserving interior room, Electrek noted the automaker plans to use approaches including megacasting and prismatic LFP batteries from BlueOval Battery Park in Michigan.The manufacturing strategy is being paired with a major software focus, the outlet added. Ford says it will tap road-level Apple Maps data to improve BlueCruise for what it described as "a more seamless on-ramp to off-ramp experience." If that combination works, it could make more shoppers comfortable buying an electric vehicle, especially those who need something useful for family trips, gear hauling, or projects around the house.AdvertisementAdvertisementGet TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.