Electric vehicles were once the domain of cars and small SUVs. But when you visit your local Ford dealer, you may be surprised to find a new line of hybrid and electric trucks like the F-150 Lightning.
The Push for Plug-Ins
With more automakers pledging to go green with their lineups over the next decade, it makes sense that Ford would make the leap by electrifying the ubiquitous F-series trucks.
Sure, it’s taking a chance with the best-selling line of trucks in America, but Ford got it right, developing a truck that’s more than worthy of the F-series badge.
No Gas, More Muscle
Powered by two electric motors, the F-150 Lightning is no lightweight. Ford is targeting 563 horsepower, and with the electric motors, you’ll get an almost instantaneous 775 pound-feet of torque, launching you from 0-60 in a smidge over four seconds. No other gasoline-powered F-150 matches the Lightning’s pure power.
It also has plenty of muscle when you’ve got a load to haul. You can pack 2,000 pounds of payload in the cargo bed and tow a trailer weighing up to 10,000 pounds.
The Power of Lightning
Battery technology has advanced over the years, making them lighter with a longer range. The standard-range battery in the F-150 Lightning will take you 230 miles between charges. You can opt for the extended-range lithium-ion battery, which adds another 70 miles. And with more infrastructure supporting electric vehicles coming online almost every week, finding a place to plug in your truck is getting easier.
Of course, you can easily charge your Ford F-150 at home using a 120V or 240V outlet. But when the power goes out, things get interesting. If the power grid fails and your home loses power, the F-150 Lightning can power an entire house for up to three days. Something to keep in mind if you’re living in an area that experiences blackouts due to wildfire prevention or a wobbly power grid.
Always Up to Date
Ford doesn’t roll into 2022 with 2017 technology. While many automakers have finally come around to making smartphone integration standard, the F-150 Lightning includes an impressive list of tech features and over-the-air software updates.
At the heart of it is the available SYNC 4A infotainment system and the FordPass app. With features such as Intelligent Range and Power My Trip, you can plan your route taking into account available charging stations, as well as the amount of payload you’re hauling.
Ford’s Phone As A Key feature allows you to unlock and start your F-150 Lightning without having to take your phone or your key fob out of your pocket or bag. You can also let family members borrow your truck by adding their profile through the FordPass app.
Charging into the Future
The Ford F-150 Lightning isn’t the only all-new and electrified vehicle wearing a classic nameplate. The automaker debuted the all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV a couple years ago and recently revived the Maverick as a hybrid light-duty pickup. Even with recent supply chain hiccups, you should be seeing all of them at your local Ford dealer soon.
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