Standard-range models have up to 452 horsepower and more payload capacity.
Ford F-150 Lightning production has begun, in case you didn’t know. The livestream from Dearborn’s Lightning assembly line kicked off April 26, but Ford has a surprise for customers eagerly awaiting their new truck. No matter what trim level you choose, all Lightnings surpass original estimates in horsepower and payload capacities.
Officially, trucks equipped with standard-range batteries have a rating of 452 horsepower. This is 26 more horsepower than Ford’s original estimate (426 hp). Lightnings equipped with an extended-range battery have power that increases from 563 to 580 horsepower. No matter what battery pack is used, the torque of the Lightning remains at 775 pound feet for all applications. Although the Lightning’s range is still 320 miles with the larger battery, it has a longer range. However, this figure has been increased since March.
F150 Lightning owners can haul more than they expected. Ford originally intended a payload of 2,000 pounds, but it’s now up to 2,235 pounds. The automaker wants to make it clear that the payload limit only applies to properly equipped trucks.
Dapo Adewusi, F-150 Lightning Vehicle Engineering Manager, stated that “we were serious about raising the bar on our truck, even after we revealed it.” When customers receive their Lightnings, it will give us a boost in our efforts to improve.
There has been much unofficial chatter about Ford’s next electric vehicle. Ford CEO Jim Farley referred to as “another electric pickup” that will be made in Tennessee during the Lightning production launch party. Ford announced last September that a new, sprawling manufacturing facility in Tennessee will be built to build batteries and the next-generation F-Series electric F-Series.
A Ford spokesperson confirmed that Farley was referring to a next-generation Ford electric vehicle with Motor1.com but did not call it an F-Series. InsideEVs’ electrified colleagues learned earlier today that Farley also mentioned a next-generation Ford electric truck. This truck could have a much greater range than the F-150 Lightning. All signs point to a Ford next-generation electric truck that could be very distinct from the F-Series.
New Lightnings will soon be available at dealerships, but you won’t likely buy one unless you have an order. All 2023 F-150 Lightnings have been sold, except for cancellations.