Electric vehicles are no longer just a concept that will someday become real sometime in the unforeseen future. They’re here, and they’re quickly taking over the automobile market. What began as hybrid technology, which used a combination of both gasoline and electric power and was made popular by compact sedans like the Prius, has evolved into all-electric vehicles. These battery-powered models have crossed over into every type of vehicle imaginable, from compact and luxury sedans to SUVs and now trucks.
The dawn of the electric truck is here, and the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is leading the revolution. While some old-school truck owners may have reservations about stepping over into the world of electric trucks due to concerns about power and capability, the Lightning is disproving any hesitations with its impressive abilities and features, giving every Ford F-150 dealer a lot to be excited about in regards to the future of their truck models.
Nicholas Schmidt, a resident from the small town of Standish, Michigan, made headlines when he received the first official F-150 Lightning in late May, having reserved it a year prior. While on the surface, this story may seem inconsequential, Schmidt had also placed an order for Tesla’s electric truck equivalent, the Cybertruck, and had briefly contemplated getting a Rivian R1T. Ultimately, Schmidt went with the Lightning. This story speaks volumes about Ford’s ability to grab customers in the EV truck market. The Lightning has just begun its first-generation run, and it is already proving to be a force in the battle for EV dominance.
Capability That Rivals Gas-Powered Competition
So what makes the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning such a standout model in the EV truck world? For starters, the standard 98 kWh Standard Range battery pack provides an impressive 230-mile range on a full charge, while the 132 kWh Extended Range option provides an astounding 320-mile range. This is quite a feat when considering peers like the gas-powered Chevy Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 get 20 MPG combined or less. But it’s not just about fuel efficiency when discussing the advantages of the F-150 Lightning. The Standard Range model produces an output of 452 hp, and those looking for more can consider the Extended Range, with an output of 580 hp. In terms of torque, both motors produce a whopping 775 lb-ft.
And it doesn’t stop there. The EV has the power and capability to compete with any of its peers. The Standard Range model has a superb towing capacity of 7,700 lbs, while the Extended can pull a phenomenal 10,000 lbs. This capacity is more than enough to compete with gasoline-powered trucks. On top of that, the Lightning’s payload is a competitive 2,235 lbs with the Standard Range battery, while the heavier Extended Range version is a bit lower at 1,800 lbs. Clearly, the Lightning has the level of power and capability to appeal to truck drivers looking for more efficiency from their vehicle.
Powering More Than Just the Vehicle
With the Lightning relying on electricity as its sole power source, the possibilities of what this truck can do for its driver extend far beyond just fuel economy and towing capabilities. This truck can power almost anything someone might need during their daily routine, whether that be on the road, at home, or at the job site. The Lightning is equipped with 11 power outlets, which include two 120V outlets in the cab, four in the bed, and four in the Mega Power Frunk (front trunk). This setup is perfect for those who use their vehicle on the job. Outlets are meticulously placed to maximize space and functionality.
Imagine being at home during an intense snow storm, and the power goes out. Typically only those with a generator could get through a blizzard comfortably without any worry about losing power. Not anymore. Among the many extraordinary features that the Lightning is capable of, perhaps its most impressive trick is the ability to power a home. Yes, you read that correctly: this truck can power a home. With a properly installed power station, the Lightning can power an entire house for up to three days or keep the necessities running for up to ten days if the power is conserved.
An Array of Innovative Technology
With most of the focus on the F-150 Lightning’s amazing fuel economy and power, it’s easy to overlook the innovative features inside. By far the most eye-catching feature is the absolutely massive 15.5-inch touchscreen located in the center console, which truly makes the truck feel futuristic and ahead-of-the-curve. This center screen, resembling a giant tablet, is the vehicle’s main command center, providing any necessary information the driver might need, such as the battery’s current charge status or a wide view of the truck’s backup camera. It is also filled with up-to-date connectivity features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as voice recognition and Connected Built-In Navigation.
The F-150 Lightning also comes with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of innovative safety technology designed to look out for the driver and prevent potential accidents before they happen. The package contains features that cover every aspect of driving, such as a Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Auto High Beam Headlamps, and an On-Demand Rear View Camera, which provides instant camera access whenever it is needed, beautifully displayed on the giant center console screen.
Innovative comfort and convenience tech are also found throughout the Lightning, beginning with the state-of-the-art B&O Sound System, providing superior sound quality through its 18 speakers positioned throughout the cabin. In addition to a phenomenal stereo, the Lightning features an intuitive memory system capable of saving preferences of everything from seats, mirrors, radio, and safety-assist settings, all accessible with one touch on the center screen.
Continuing with the convenience theme, Ford also offers the FordPass, an app that enables you to connect the Lightning to your phone to gain access to important vehicle information such as battery life, service reminders, and other statistics. You also have the ability to lock and unlock the vehicle as well as engage the remote start. You can even use your phone as a keyfob to start the truck and drive away!
The F-150 Lightning Is Bringing Us the Future, Today
It’s clear that the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is beginning the all-electric truck revolution with a bang by setting the bar extremely high with what an EV can do. Ford’s dedication to the EV market is more than just simply building a model no longer a slave to the gas pump. While this is a huge selling point, Ford has matched this component with the power and capability to compete with gas-guzzling rivals. But it’s more than just that; the EV market is growing rapidly, and it’s going to take more than just a powerful electric motor to sell trucks. Ford knew this and began its foray into the EV truck world with a slew of cutting-edge features that set the Lightning apart from the competition. While it may be uncertain where all-electric trucks are going, the F-150 Lightning proves that Ford is off to a great start.
