Ford has officially launched its new all-electric F-150 Lightning pick-up truck. The event happened the day after US President, Joe Biden, was given a tour of Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center. The new F-150 is a zero-emission version of the F-150, which is the best selling truck in the US, so will hopefully provide an easy path to electric adoption for its users.
The new F-150 Lightning will roll off the line next year at a new high-tech factory using sustainable manufacturing practices at Ford’s storied Rouge complex in Dearborn just outside Detroit.
Bill Ford, executive chair at Ford Motor Company, said: “For both Ford and the American auto industry, F-150 Lightning represents a defining moment as we progress toward a zero-emissions, digitally connected future.”
“F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 44 years, the backbone of work across the country, and a trusted icon for generations of customers. Now we are revolutionising it for a new generation.”
F-150 Lightning is part of Ford’s more than $22 billion global electric vehicle plan to lead electrification in areas of strength. Ford is starting its electric future with zero-emissions versions of its most popular and best-loved vehicles including the Mustang, Transit and F-150.
First-time electric vehicle drivers will find the new F-150 Lightning quick off the mark, quiet and smooth. It will deliver a new experience for truck owners, with a starting price of $39,974 (£28,295/€32,790) which is on par with today’s similarly configured F-150 trucks. The mid-series XLT model starts at $52,974 (£37,519/€43,453)
The electric platform unlocks new capabilities as well including enough energy to power an entire home and a massive lockable front trunk with power and charging capabilities to spare. Ford will also deploy standard over-the-air software updates, called Ford Power-Up, to improve the technology experience, add new features and fix issues without trips to the dealership.
Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO, said: “The F-150 Lightning is a massive moment for our Ford team. America’s No. 1 auto brand is going zero emissions with America’s favourite vehicle. It’s quicker than a Raptor, with standard 4×4 and independent rear suspension. A power frunk, enough juice to run your house for three days or power an awesome tailgate, and it will forever improve with over-the-air updates.
“It will be built at the Rouge factory, where Henry Ford changed the world and my grandfather punched in every day. F-150 Lightning represents all that our country can do when we push for progress.”
F-150 Lightning will be available with two battery options. The standard-range battery targets 230 miles (370km) of range and an extended-range battery version will offer up 300 miles (483km) of range.
F-150 Lightning targets 563 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-62 mph (100kph) in around 4.5 seconds when equipped with an extended-range battery. The low centre of gravity brings even more confident handling whether travelling along rain-slick roads or through sand.
It targets a maximum 2,000lbs (907kg) of payload in the standard-range model with 18-inch wheels. A maximum 10,000lbs (4536kg) of towing capacity is available on XLT and Lariat trucks with the extended-range battery and max trailer tow package.
Kumar Galhotra, Ford president of the Americas and International Markets Group, said: “We’re not here to make an electric truck for the few. Ford is committed to building one that solves real problems for real people.
“F-150 Lightning delivers everything we’ve said electric vehicles can offer, plus the capability expected from a Built Ford Tough truck, not just near-instant torque but powerful towing and hauling customers can depend on. Smart, connected and better over time.”
