Standard-range models are up to 452 horsepower, and there’s more payload capacity all around.
In case you haven’t heard, the Ford F-150 Lightning is now in production. The celebration began on April 26 with a livestream from the Lightning assembly line in Dearborn, but Ford has a pleasant surprise in store for consumers who are eagerly anticipating their new truck. All Lightnings, regardless of trim level, outperform early expectations in terms of horsepower and cargo capacity.
The official rating for trucks equipped with the standard-range battery pack is now 452 horsepower. This is a 26-horsepower boost over Ford’s previous estimate of 426 hp. Power increases from 563 hp to 580 hp for Lightnings equipped with the extended-range battery. (zorafestival.org) For all applications, the torque remains constant at 775 pound-feet, regardless of the battery pack. The Lightning’s estimated range is still 320 miles for the larger battery, though that figure was also increased from initial targets back in March.
F-150 Lightning owners can haul a little more than planned in addition to having more power. Ford originally planned for a payload capacity of 2,000 pounds, however that has since been increased to 2,235 pounds. The cargo limit only applies to trucks that are properly equipped, according to the company.
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Dapo Adewusi, Vehicle Engineering Manager for the F-150 Lightning, said, “We were seriously focused on increasing the bar on this vehicle, including after we showed it, so we can give more for our consumers.” “And after customers have their Lightnings, we’ll start hearing feedback and ideas from them, which will help us continue to improve.”
The official announcement comes amid all kinds of unofficial chatter about Ford’s next electric truck. During the Lightning production launch party, Ford CEO Jim Farley directly referenced “another electric pickup that’s different than this one” which will be built in Tennessee. Last September, Ford announced the construction of a sprawling new manufacturing center in Tennessee that will build batteries and the next-generation electric F-Series.
Farley alluded to a next-generation Ford electric vehicle, according to a Ford spokeswoman who stopped short of calling it an F-Series. InsideEVs revealed earlier today that Farley also referenced active aero components in this truck, as well as a range that might much exceed the current F-150 Lightning. Everything points to Ford developing a next-generation electric vehicle that will be unlike anything else in the F-Series lineup.
For the time being, new Lightnings will be arriving at dealerships soon, but unless you have previously placed an order, you are unlikely to purchase one. All 2023 F-150 Lightnings are sold out, barring cancellation of existing orders.
Source:Â Ford
