The Ford F-150 Lightning was once a shining beacon for the electric future of pickup trucks, but it now faces a turbulent ending. Ford has announced plans to halt production on the current model by the end of this year. While it’s not a complete farewell, the next version, an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), is on the horizon.
In a recent announcement, Ford declared the discontinuation of the current Lightning, branding the EREV as a substantial upgrade to its capabilities. This new setup includes a gas engine to function as a generator for the electric components, giving the Lightning EREV an impressive range of over 700 miles.
Why Is Ford Making This Shift?
The original Lightning captured attention and support from the Biden administration, showcasing how America’s top-selling truck embraced an electric future. Former President Biden even took it for a spin on the White House South Lawn. However, with the return of Donald Trump and a shift in policy, support for electric vehicles dwindled, particularly impacting incentives like the $7,500 tax credit for eligible EV purchases.
While Ford’s decision may not be politically driven, it seems certain policies influenced the company’s direction. Sales surged briefly before the tax credit expired, with nearly 4,000 trucks sold in September—a 135% increase year-over-year. However, by November, sales plummeted to approximately 1,000 units.
Challenges and Costs
Launched in 2021, the Lightning was plagued by cost challenges. The market desired a more affordable electric truck, but the most economical Lightning trim for non-fleet users still starts at $63,345 (around €59,500). Ford acknowledged these issues in a separate announcement about re-evaluating its electric vehicle strategies, stating it would take a hit of $19.5 billion to reshape its EV plans by 2029.
Expert Opinions on the Future of Electric Trucks
Ed Kim, president and chief analyst at AutoPacific, doesn’t see this as a death knell for electric trucks. He believes that while the path has become longer, it’s still moving forward. “The market isn’t quite ready to go all electric yet,” he commented, outlining that the full electric transition may take time, similar to Ram’s EREV plans for its electric truck.
What’s Next for Electric Pickups?
The F-150 as a fully electric vehicle posed challenges for traditional truck buyers, especially regarding range anxiety and infrastructure. As competitors like Rivian and Tesla introduce electric pickups, Kim distinguishes them as part of a different market focused more on lifestyle than utility.
Will the Next-Generation Lightning Be Worth It?
While the upcoming Lightning will retain its electric essence, the inclusion of a gas engine for extended range reflects a transitional phase for electric trucks. “It’s like an EV with training wheels,” Kim said, illustrating this shift towards hybrid solutions.
As we bid farewell to the current F-150 Lightning, we can only hope that the next iteration maintains its legendary features, like the expansive “Mega Power Frunk.”
Is Ford discontinuing the F-150 Lightning entirely?
No, the current F-150 Lightning is being replaced by a new extended range electric vehicle (EREV), not a complete discontinuation.
What is an EREV?
An EREV combines an electric motor with a gas engine that acts as a generator to extend the vehicle’s range, addressing concerns around battery range and charging infrastructure.
How has the change in administration affected Ford’s EV strategy?
The shift in administration has influenced consumer incentives for electric vehicles, affecting sales and overall market demand for models like the F-150 Lightning.
What does this mean for the future of electric pickups?
While the current Lightning’s production is ending, this pivot towards EREV technology indicates Ford’s commitment to adapting to market demands rather than abandoning electric trucks altogether.
As the electric vehicle landscape evolves, how do you feel about these changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!