The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric take on a traditional full-size pickup truck. Introduced in early 2021, production began in April 2022. The first-year model is sold out, but reservations for subsequent years will soon open.
10 Reasons
If you are in the market for a new vehicle, we offer 10 reasons why the F-150 Lightning should be on your list.
1. It is affordable.
Ford prices the F-150 Lightning at about $40,000 for the base model. Take into consideration the $7,500 federal tax credit and the cost rivals the gas model. State and local incentives may further reduce what you pay. Certainly, prices climb sharply as you move up the trim range, but the same can be said for the gas model. Only buy as much truck as you need.
2. You never need gas.
Avoid the gas pumps forever. That is a dream of an untold number of drivers and a reality with the F-150 Lightning. Instead of pumps, you’ll find charging ports. Use the one at your home or business, then use the app to find one near you while on the road. Take long trips in confidence with a range of 230 to 320 miles available. Stop for lunch while on the road, connect, and continue your trip with many hours of all-electric driving ahead of you.
3. It is environmentally friendly.
Who doesn’t want a cleaner world? That is exactly what the F-150 Lightning helps achieve as there are no emissions. This also means oil changes, transmission fluid changes, and other fluids are no longer required. Further, you won’t have to find a dump to handle your recyclables.
4. It is stylish.
The Lightning is its own beast. This means Ford used a unique platform to underpin the truck. But its designers took care to make certain that the new truck didn’t deviate from the successful look of the traditional model. Both are handsome and complement each other.
5. The cabin is modern and comfortable.
There are parallels between gas and electric interiors and that’s what we want. The cabin seats five, and offers standard vinyl seats with cloth and leather available. The front seats are just as supportive as they are in the gas model. You’ll also find a similar layout with cupholders, storage areas, and other hideaways included.
6. Ample tech features are included.
There is no lack of technology in the Lightning. Beginning with a huge touchscreen display to various audio systems, this electric truck has it. This means features such as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are found. USB ports, wireless charging, navigation, and power outlets are other features of note.
7. Driver-assist tech is at the ready.
Ford offers automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection on the F-150 Lightning. Not only that, Ford keeps people safe by including lane control, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. This model also offers the BlueCruise Semi-autonomous Driving mode on some trims. This feature makes it possible to enjoy hands-free driving on select roads.
8. The F-150 Lightning offers a capable payload.
While some versions of the F-150 offer more than 3,000 pounds of payload capacity, the Lightning supplies a respectable 2,079 pounds. This means you can drive with a full contingent of passengers and load up the truck bed. The numbers exceed what the midsize Ford Ranger supplies.
9. Towing is fair, but better with the right package.
If there is a weakness for the F-150 Lightning, that would be towing. The standard towing figure is 5,000 pounds and that number rivals most smaller trucks. But there is something decent to report: this model can pull upwards of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped with a towing package.
10. Power your home.
The F-150 Lightning offers something that is certain to please: an onboard power generator. This feature means if there is a blackout, the generator can power a home. Otherwise, it is entirely useful for powering equipment and other personal items. You’ll need a vehicle charger and a home integration system. Ford also has other recommendations to cover indoor or outdoor installation. Consider this a “must-have” feature wherever power loss is possible.
On the Road
Ford has allotted 150,000 units of the F-150 Lightning for its first year. That is up from the initially projected demand for 40,000 units. Even so, customers with firm orders must wait months to get theirs. Those who missed out on the 2022 model year may be offered the opportunity to order one in subsequent years.
All in all, the Ford F-150 Lightning supplies a welcome sea change for the industry. Not everyone will be onboard, but for those who are, the future is most certainly electric.
See Also – The Electrified Ford F-150 Hybrid
Photos courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.
