Under that familiar body, there’s an electrified beefy frame.
Ford might not be the first production electric pickup truck, but its electric F150 is undoubtedly the one that people are most interested in. Even minor changes to America’s most popular vehicle are significant. Going electric will mark the largest change in its 73-year-old history. These spy photos give a glimpse of how the truck will change.
This isn’t just about electric power. The traditional solid rear axle has been replaced by an electric motor. Although we knew an independent suspension setup was coming these photos allow us to see the coilovers at corners. The half shafts connecting the motor and the hubs can also be seen. As with spy shots before, the rear motor is definitely large and in-charge of the camera.
Profile shots clearly show the large frame beneath the F-150’s body. Although details about the battery pack are not known, it seems like Ford isn’t skimping on strength in order to support the additional weight. According to Ford, the target range for the battery pack is 300 miles. However, an upgraded battery could be available for 400-miles or more. We know that the F150 EV will have dual motors for all-wheel-drive, but it is possible to offer a single-motor RWD version.
This rear-drive platform could be ideal for the new F-150 Lightning performance truck. It has independent rear suspension. Ford already stated that the electrified F-150 would be the most powerful, but we think harnessing that power through just the rear wheels would prove to be quite difficult. We’re fine with that – an AWD Lightning would have a sub-four second 0-60 time. Are you listening, Ford?
Camouflage will not be significantly different from the F-150’s current-generation design. Although we suspect that much of the wrap is a scam, the grille and bumper will be unique to this electric truck. This pickup does not require fuel doors and could have taillights that are EV-specific.
According to rumours, the F-150 electric vehicle will be in production by the second half of 2022. Rivian could see its truck in production by this year. The most expensive version GMC Hummer will also be in production by late 2021. Ford won’t likely be the first to market but the EV F-150 should be revealed before then.