Ford’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) has had its challenges, including resistance from Lincoln dealerships over the requirements for selling EVs from the brand. However, Ford reported that 59% of its dealers agreed to the terms, representing 88% of Lincoln’s share volume, according to Automotive News.
This was a relief for Ford, who had been dealing with complaints about its $900,000 certification program for carrying EVs, which was intended to fund charging infrastructure at showrooms.
Ford announced that 356 dealers have agreed to invest in the company’s EV program. Around 90% of them are located in the top 130 luxury markets in the US. A Ford spokeswoman stated that this gives Lincoln a strong network of retailers who have agreed to take the necessary steps to prepare for the brand’s transition towards electrification and better serve future EV clients.
The certification program offers two options for dealerships, based on their location in the top 130 luxury markets. Top-tier dealerships will be required to invest more, around $900,000, to set up two DC fast chargers and seven Level 2 chargers. Lower tier dealerships will need to invest $500,000 in one DC charger and four Level 2 chargers.
However, dealerships that also operate a Ford store must separately receive certification for that brand, which could be as high as $1.2 million. Ford is providing dealerships that did not meet the requirements with another opportunity to enroll in 2026, instead of 2027. The first set of Lincoln EVs is expected to be released in 2025/2026.
