Ford launches production of the F-150 Lightning

The fully electric version of the F-150 is assembled in the United States, at Ford’s Rouge complex.

A true symbol of American automobiles, the Ford F-150 is also transitioning to electric, with a Lightning version that is just beginning to roll off the assembly lines.

The official start of production was announced on April 26. Ford considers this date to mark the beginning of a new era in its history. The American company even compared this event to the launch of the Model T.

The F-150 Lightning is produced at Ford’s Rouge complex located in Dearborn, near Detroit. Ford recently invested $950 million in this factory to adapt it for electric vehicle production. Many new employees have also been recruited. Ford is therefore sparing no effort and aims to reach a production rate of 150,000 Lightning trucks per year starting in 2023.

A Real Buzz Around the F-150 Lightning

Ford claims to have already received 200,000 reservations for the F-150 Lightning. According to the manufacturer, three-quarters of these come from people who previously did not own a Ford, and many customers will be discovering electric vehicles with this model.

It seems that the automaker had good intuition by offering an electric version of its flagship model across the Atlantic. Beyond branding, the success of the Lightning also relies on relatively affordable prices, with Ford aiming to keep the base price under $40,000 (excluding taxes). “We don’t want to build an electric pickup for a select few”, explained Kumar Galhotra, Ford Blue’s president, a few months ago. “Ford is committed to building a truck that solves real people’s real problems”.

Ford Is Overtaken by Rivian

For those who missed the official presentation, remember that the Lightning offers up to 483 km of range (EPA cycle). With its 563 hp electric motor, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 4 seconds.

Ford enters the electric pickup segment after Rivian, which launched its R1T some time ago. But at over $65,000 in the base version, this model is much less affordable than the F-150 Lightning.

Read also: Ford Accelerates Electric Tempo in Europe