Ford (F) took a huge risk by producing its inaugural electric pickup vehicle, the F-150 Lightning. With over 200,000 refundable preorders secured and production beginning this year, however there remain some serious hurdles ahead.
Ford faces stiff competition. Nissan plans another electric truck at their Blue Oval City campus near Stanton, Tennessee.
Capacity
Ford trucks have long been associated with style and power since 1908, and its new model – the 2022 Ford Lightning full-size electric pickup – carries this tradition proudly. It proudly bears the Built Ford Tough name.
Charge it from home or public DC fast-charging stations for up to 230 miles of driving range – enough for trips to the grocery store or golf with friends!
Key Scales Ford offers powerful and reliable new vehicles for sale at Key Scales Ford; we can assist with towing capacities up to 10,000 pounds and acceleration time from zero-60 is four seconds. Reach out today if you’re searching for your ideal electric vehicle (EV). We have everything from hydrogen power cells and plug-in hybrid EVs available – we are sure we have one that meets all your requirements.
Range
Ford’s F-150 Lightning electric pickup is one of only a handful available today and one that tows up to 10,000 pounds using its smaller battery pack and up to 20,000 when using its larger one, respectively. When loaded to its maximum cargo rating capacity, its range significantly decreases; AAA conducted tests that found approximately one quarter was lost when loaded up as per maximum cargo rating capacity.
The Lightning can be quickly recharged at home using 110- and 220-volt outlets or public DC fast charging stations, allowing drivers to get back on the road with minimal downtime. It has an estimated driving range of 230 miles with its smaller battery and 320 with its larger one; however, towing requires frequent stops to recharge it quickly if towing is involved.
Towing
Ford Pro’s team in California put the Ford Lightning through an intensive test route with equipment such as boats and trailers for proof.
It was surprising to find that our electric truck managed everything without issue; this is critical, as an electric truck that cannot perform common tasks won’t be as appealing to buyers.
The Lightning boasts an impressive payload capacity that rivals that of conventional gas trucks, making it suitable for transporting anything from power tools and welding machines to camping gear and more. Furthermore, its cargo box can even fit a spare tire should one become necessary.
Performance
Ford’s electric pickup offers powerful performance with instant torque and a 0-60 time of approximately four seconds. Additionally, this vehicle serves as a backup generator – according to Ford it can power an average home for three days! – while also having vehicle-to-grid capabilities.
The Lightning’s frunk, which replaces the hood in electric models, offers 14.1 cubic feet of storage space; enough for tools, coolers and more. Plus it comes equipped with electrical charging plugs!
Kelley Blue Book reports that its cost of ownership is lower than the segment average. This factor encompasses insurance, maintenance costs, fuel expenses, state fees and depreciation; much less than what buyers would pay for new gas trucks but still a considerable investment for many buyers.
Technology
Ford has much to prove with their 2022 F-150 Lightning electric pickup – their inaugural offering. Over 200,000 pre-orders have already been secured with production slated to commence shortly.
As it competes with Tesla for market dominance, Ford must deliver a superior battery experience while expanding its charging network and stay ahead of rivals who will likely move beyond Lightning to ground-up EV platforms for their full-size trucks.
All Lightning models feature Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system, providing smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. Lariat and Platinum trims also include Bang & Olufsen premium stereo systems.
