We expect the upcoming Ford F-150 Lightning to debut as a fully electric variant of the current-generation Ford F-150. The full-size electric pickup will share its overall appearance with its gasoline-powered relatives while boasting its own distinct aesthetic. In addition to a host of new innovations, the pickup will feature a dual-motor setup, a powertrain that will make it the most powerful F-150 ever.
Nameplate History
Ford originally used the Lightning name for two non-consecutive generations of the Ford SVT Lightning, which the company produced from 1993-1995 and 1999-2004. Those performance-oriented models employed gasoline engines and were designed as street-focused racers, but the new fully electric model will forge a different path.
Expected Changes, Updates, New Features
Here are the features we expect for the Ford F-150 Lightning:
- Unique battery chemistry that channels power to a dual motor setup, with more horsepower and torque than any model currently available
- Mobile power generation not unlike the Pro Power Onboard system currently available on certain 2021 Ford F-150 models
- Model-specific front fender, sheet metal, and lighting elements
- Front trunk with generous storage space
- An independent coil spring suspension
- Infotainment options that vary from a standard model to a larger unit, at extra cost
Body Styles
The Ford F-150 Lightning is expected to be introduced as a full-size electric pickup, with the Supercrew configuration being available at launch. Other cab variants are likely to follow.
Powertrain
We expect the Ford F-150 Lightning to launch with a dual electric motor setup with considerable horsepower and torque. Battery chemistry will not be shared with any other electric vehicle in Ford’s stable.
Models & Trim Levels
We expect Ford to offer the F-150 Lightning with several different trim levels, including models designated for fleet or commercial duty, although its offerings may not be as expansive as its internal combustion counterparts, due to the considerable cost of the powertrain.
Platform
The Ford F-150 Lightning will ride on a heavily modified version of the Ford P platform that currently sees duty on every gasoline-powered 2021 Ford F-150.
Production
The F-150 Lightning will be produced at the Ford Rogue Electric Vehicle Center, which is currently under construction in Michigan. That said, body and paintwork will still take place alongside ICE-powered models at the Ford Dearborn Truck plant, which is situated next to the complex.
Availability
We expect the Ford F-150 Lightning to launch in 2022 for the 2023 model year.
Looking Ahead
The nature of electric vehicle manufacturing and Ford’s previous statements about product cadence for electric vehicles may indicate that the company has different plans for the F-150 Lightning, which would debut a full two years after the initial launch of the 14th gen F-150, if Ford does not delay its current release schedule.
News
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