Whether you're looking for a new sports car to cruise around town or a luxury car to take on the road, the Ford Lightning Platinum can deliver. This sporty car can accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, and it boasts an estimated 300-mile range. It also comes equipped with an onboard generator, so you can travel in the rain or snow.
0-60 mph time
Earlier this year, Ford claimed that its electric F-Series could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than four seconds. While it is certainly true that an EV can do this, the real question is whether or not it's actually possible. Luckily, the folks at Ford have confirmed that the Lightning can indeed do this, but they also took the opportunity to show off their new EV tech.
They also revealed that the standard range battery in the 2023 F-150 Lightning has a longer EPA estimated range than last year's model. In addition, the company has announced that its top-of-the-line Platinum trim will come standard with an Extended Range Battery. This feature enables the EV to drive for up to 320 miles before needing a recharge.
According to Ford, the 0-60 mph time is a measly 4.1 seconds for the Standard Range Battery. The Platinum model, on the other hand, is a full half-second faster than the factory estimate. It pulls hard to a top speed of 110 mph.
While the Ford F-150 Lightning is still a workhorse, its acceleration and range improvements give it a leg up over other electric trucks. The company hopes to convince the general public that its upcoming electric F-Series isn't just a novelty.
The Ford Lightning has some serious competition in the EV market, as Chevy's new Silverado EV RST First Edition comes with a 754 hp motor and 785 lb-ft of torque. The Tesla Model S, on the other hand, has a 62-mile range and a 0-60 mph time of a little over two seconds.
The Ford F-150 Lightning isn't just the most technologically advanced truck on the market. It's also a lot of fun to drive.
EPA-estimated range of 300 miles
EPA figures for the new Ford F-150 Lightning have revealed a range of 300 miles, which is nearly 20 miles more than the initial target. This is an improvement on the previous 230-mile rated range of the model, which is an indication that the new model is performing better than the competition.
The F-150 Lightning is one of the most anticipated pickup trucks of the year. It has been announced that the standard-sized battery will provide a range of 230 miles, but buyers can opt for an extended-range pack to boost that range to 320 miles. The extended-range variants are available for the XLT and Lariat trims.
The Platinum model can go 300 miles on a single charge, but the model is only offered with a bigger battery. This is a good thing for drivers who want to enjoy longer ranges on their commutes. However, the extra mass of the luxury features may affect overall efficiency.
In addition to the increased range, the Platinum model will also feature larger wheels and a higher ride height. The EPA estimates that the Platinum will get an average of 68 MPGe.
The cheapest Extended Range models start at $74,169, which is about $40,000 less than the standard-range models. The Platinum model starts at $92,569, including a destination charge.
While the EPA estimate for the F-150 Lightning's 320-mile range is impressive, it's not the best range. Several other electric vehicles are rated to go far beyond that. The GMC Hummer EV is rated to travel 329 miles, and the Chevy Tahoe claims to go 230 miles on a charge.
Despite the impressive range, the Ford F-150 Lightning isn't yet offering any incentives or specials for EV buyers.
Onboard generator
Besides being a Ford electric pickup truck, the F-150 Lightning Platinum has a built-in onboard generator that can power electronics and appliances. It also can function as a backup generator for your home. This means it can keep your essential items powered for up to three days after you leave for work or vacation.
The base model has 2.4 kilowatts of power. The XLT model features 18-inch black accent wheels and adaptive cruise control. The LARIAT and Platinum models have 9.6 kilowatts of power. This gives the SUV an additional 300 miles of cruising range.
A gauge-cluster display in the center stack shows the battery's charge state. You can monitor the rate of transfer with the Tesla Lightning app. When the level of the battery falls below one-third of its range, the truck will shut down its electrical devices to conserve energy for home use. You can manually turn on the system or let it automatically come on in the event of a power outage.
The standard range battery has a 230-mile range. A more powerful battery can add up to 50 more miles. The extended-range battery has a 240-volt, 30-amp outlet in the bed.
The cargo area of the F-150 Lightning has four 120V outlets. A toolbox can be stored in the bed as well. The cargo area is equipped with Onboard Scales to help prevent cargo overload. A mobile device holder is also included.
The F-150 Lightning Platinum Edition comes equipped with a power sliding rear window and a power tilt wheel. It also has adaptive cruise control, active park assist and a keyless entry pad. It has 14 cubic feet of cargo space.
Pricing
Earlier this month, Ford Motor Company announced a price increase for the all-electric F-150 Lightning lineup. The price of the base model will jump to $46,974, while the Platinum model will start at $92,569. Those prices are still significantly lower than the top trim, which starts at nearly $100,000.
The new pricing is based on a "significant material cost increase," according to the company. Ford cites supply chain issues and "overwhelming demand" as reasons for the increase. The company took more than 200,000 reservations for the electric truck during the first year of production. In July, the company sold 4,400 units.
The top trim, Platinum, is fully loaded, including a 131-kWh extended range battery pack. It also has Pro Trailer Hitch Assist Technology, which controls the inputs of the steering and brakes. Its center console has a 15.5-inch vertical touchscreen, and there's also wireless smartphone integration.
Its exterior is wrapped in a body-on-frame design, and there are a variety of color options to choose from. The interior retains the same dimensions and features as the EcoBoost-powered counterpart.
The entry-level Pro trim starts at $54,669, and the Pro Special Service Vehicle Package will be available for $65. The XLT trim starts at $52,974, while the Lariat trim starts at $72,474. The Lariat and XLT can both be equipped with an optional extended range battery. The Extended Range battery pack adds $10,000 to the price of the XLT and Lariat models.
The official driving range for the F-150 Lightning is 320 miles. That figure is based on laboratory tests. But the company has revealed that its range will increase in 2023. The EPA estimates the standard range pack will add a little over a mile per charge in 2023.
Reliability
Taking the best features of the gas F-150, Ford's Lightning has gone a step further. It is an electric truck that has the same looks, interior, and driving characteristics as the F-150. It's also more powerful than the previous year's model. The new Ford has a longer range and faster 0-to-60 time, and is quieter. It's also more capable, towing up to 3492 pounds with a larger battery.
The Ford Lightning is available in four trim levels: XLT, Pro, Lariat, and Platinum. The XLT comes standard with a 98-kWh battery pack, while the Lariat and Platinum are available with an optional 131-kWh extended range battery pack.
Compared to other full-size pickup trucks, the Ford Lightning is lighter and smaller. The battery pack enables the car to have a low center of gravity. The weight is distributed evenly throughout the vehicle, making the ride smooth. It also has a large trunk with a 14.1 cubic foot capacity.
The Lightning comes with a Tow Technology Package, which includes a trailer brake controller. It's also equipped with a one-pedal drive mode that slows the truck when you lift off the accelerator. This function allows you to get to a complete stop without crashing.
The Ford Lightning also comes with a connected interior, and Ford's Co-Pilot360 2.0 suite. It's equipped with a power sliding rear window, running boards, adaptive cruise control, and a keyless entry pad. It also has a mobile power cord with a 240V connector.
It's a great choice for people who live in areas with frequent power outages. It's also a fun pickup to drive. It has a well-weighted brake pedal, and its steering is responsive.