Ford showcases its initial electric pickup truck at the 2022 International Auto Show
Ford Trucks has made a significant stride in the automotive industry with the unveiling of its first 100 percent electric next-generation truck, the Ford F-150 Lightning. This all-electric pickup truck is part of Ford's 2022 and beyond electric roadmap, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
Specifications
The F-150 Lightning is equipped with a dual electric motor powertrain, providing all-wheel drive. With a total system output of 580 hp and 775 lb-ft of instantaneous torque, this electric powerhouse promises impressive performance. The truck comes with a lithium-ion battery pack, offered in standard and extended range versions, providing an estimated electric range of approximately 320 miles for the extended range battery.
The dimensions of the F-150 Lightning are 145.5 inches in wheelbase, 232.7 inches in length, 80.0 inches in width, and 78.3 inches in height. Despite its size, the truck can tow up to 7,500 pounds with adjusted range calculations. The battery is covered by an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty.
Cost and Models
Ford has announced the pricing for the 2025 F-150 Lightning models, which range from an affordable work truck starting at $51,975 to the top-tier luxury trim priced at $87,190. The new tech-focused mid-tier trim, the Flash, is expected to capture a significant market share with its focus on technology and competitive pricing, qualifying for the federal EV tax credit under the $80,000 price point.
Features and Technologies
The F-150 Lightning offers a range of innovative features and technologies. Drivers can choose from Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Off-road drive modes through a large central touchscreen. The Flash trim includes Ford’s semi-autonomous ‘BlueCruise’ Level 2 hands-free driving on compatible highways.
The truck also features a front cargo compartment, known as the Frunk, replacing the engine bay. It comes with a power-operated hood and multiple opening methods. The Pro Power Onboard feature allows the truck to supply power to external devices, supporting power tools and lifestyle needs.
Other features include compatibility with home charging and BlueOval Charge Network for public fast charging, 1-Pedal Drive for enhanced efficiency and control, an interior work features fold-out center console table designed as a workspace during charging stops, and cold weather performance that, while slightly affected by cold temperatures, ensures the truck handles well in cold climates.
Additional Context
The F-150 Lightning marks the electrification of Ford’s historically bestselling full-size pickup lineup. The truck is assembled in Dearborn, Michigan, reflecting Ford’s commitment to domestic manufacturing. Ford continues to focus on practical utility and high performance with strong torque and towing capabilities, setting a new standard for electric pickup trucks.
The Lightning advances Ford's broader electric vehicle roadmap, emphasizing semi-autonomous driving features and lifestyle power accessories. Ford Trucks has presented a roadmap for emission-free transportation solutions at IAA Transportation 2022, and the new electric truck from Ford Trucks is predicted to have lower total operating costs than diesel vehicles over a four-year period.
In summary, Ford’s electric truck strategy centers on the F-150 Lightning with multiple trims from affordable work-oriented models to luxury variants, blending traditional pickup capabilities with modern EV tech to meet diverse customer needs in 2022 and beyond. The roadmap includes 100 percent electric, connected, and autonomous vehicle technologies.
The F-150 Lightning, Ford's electric pickup truck, not only showcases the company's commitment to a sustainable future, but also shapes the path for education-and-self-development, offering an array of innovative features such as semi-autonomous 'BlueCruise' Level 2 hands-free driving and cold weather performance techniques. In sports, the F-150 Lightning promises impressive performance with a total system output of 580 hp, making it a contender in the electric sports arena.
