The Tradition of the F-150
Many carry cherished memories of a Ford F-150, from riding around Grandpa’s farm to cruising the Pacific Northwest with the tunes blaring. These trucks are indispensable and known for tasks like hauling firewood and towing trailers. The electric F-150 Lightning Platinum reflects the modern evolution with features like a large touchscreen and luxurious amenities, contrasting the rugged past. Beyond its upscale interior, the Lightning excels in performance and functionality, outshining traditional gas models, whether transporting tools, trailers, or apples to the cider press—a versatile choice despite the initial expense.
Power and Performance Electrified
The F-150 Lightning Platinum with a towing package accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds. While not the first F-150 Lightning, this electric marvel surpasses its gas-powered predecessor from decades ago. Beyond the name, the modern F-150 Lightning stands as a distinct evolution.
This EV pickup has luxurious features like heated and cooled seating, adaptive cruise control, a spacious sunroof, and a surround-view camera. You can also embrace the convenience of one-pedal driving, eliminating the need for constant braking. With Ford’s Blue Cruise technology, drivers can enjoy hands-free moments on select highways, ensuring safety through eye-tracking sensors.
Interior and Cargo Space
While the interiors of the gas and electric F-150 trucks share similarities, the F-150 Lightning distinguishes itself with a spacious front compartment known as the “frunk.” Ford asserts that this innovative space can accommodate up to three sets of standard golf clubs. Moreover, the frunk boasts four 120-volt power outlets and two USB ports (one USB-C and one USB-A), providing a versatile solution for charging electronics while on the go or powering tools and laptops during tasks between job sites.
An Impressive Power Source
The Lightning trim boasts four 120-volt and one 220-volt outlets, powering appliances like dryers and hot tubs. With a 7.2 kWh hybrid truck capacity and the Lightning’s 131 kWh capability, it outshines gas models with 2.0 or 2.4 kWh. The extended-range model serves as a 131-kWh home generator, a cost-effective alternative to traditional options. The F-150 Lightning transcends gas-powered vehicles, functioning as a rolling energy storage hub, offering ten times the capacity of a Tesla Powerwall for off-grid households.
Is the Lightning just as capable as the traditional F-150?
Despite Ford’s electric drivetrain providing speed and a smooth ride and the extended battery models offering an EPA estimated range of 515 kilometres, purchasers of the F-150 Lightning are not traditionalists. Ford representatives have noted that most buyers are newcomers to the brand and have not previously owned a truck. When comparing these two versions of the F-150, the Lightning is more than capable of pulling a large trailer, hauling heavy loads, and doing everything, and it is more than the traditional gas-powered Ford F-150.
Range anxiety is a common concern for people who drive trucks, as they must cover a considerable distance and be able to rely on their vehicle to stay running. In a medium-sized city and its outskirts, this truck is a reliable daily ride for those who need it for work. If towing a trailer, you should be able to drive up to 240 kilometres before locating a charger, which can be discouraging for some, thus leading them to opt for a gas truck instead. Yet, for most drivers, this isn’t a problem; the daily distance of truck owners is approximately 65 kilometres.
The Cost Savings of Driving Electric
In Canada, where gas prices tend to run higher, the financial advantages of owning a Ford F-150 Lightning are even more evident. By embracing an all-electric model, F-150 Lightning owners in Canada enjoy substantial savings on fuel costs. Amidst fluctuating gas prices, the stability and comparatively lower expense of electricity offer a reliable and cost-effective option. The F-150 Lightning not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also provides Canadian drivers with an economically savvy and ecologically responsible choice as they traverse the diverse landscapes of the Great White North.
When contemplating the F-150 Lightning, concerns about oil changes become obsolete, as electric car batteries maintain their power with minimal degradation over time. Despite higher upfront costs, these trucks prove to be wise investments with significantly lower ongoing expenses for maintenance and operation. With less frequent changes to brake pads and fluid, thanks to regenerative braking technology, F-150 Lightning owners experience a practical and cost-efficient driving solution.
It’s all in the Details
The allure of the Lightning is hard to ignore, with meticulous details like tailgate tie-down clamps and dual measuring sticks. The front trunk’s versatility allows for ice-filled drinks with a removable cover. Bed lights, numerous outlets, a tailgate step stool, and a secure back seat safe add to the truck’s convenience.
Experience a hands-free highway ride in the Lightning, equipped with a flat floor skid plate and a heat pump for optimal winter performance. The frunk stays weather-shielded while warming up. Opt for the basic Pro model at half the cost for impressive towing and range, surpassing the capabilities of older models like the 2015 FX4.
The Thrill of the Road
Experience the engineering prowess firsthand in your drive. The dual motors deliver a potent yet serene performance, propelling you to 100 kilometres per hour in just five seconds, thanks to a swift traction control system that instills confidence. While not designed for race car-like maneuvers, the truck excels with a consistent drive in Eco, Normal, and Aggressive modes, effortlessly adjusting throttle response and steering.
Despite a hint of body rollover speed bumps, a result of the soft suspension tailored for truck utility, the low positioning of the Ford battery bank ensures a refined balance and power. The sensation is akin to a Rolls-Royce with a cargo bed, portraying sophistication and stability on the road.
Ford is Winning Over the Competition
The broader market remains unconvinced despite Ford’s success in converting non-truck owners. There is a delay in GM’s truck release, and Tesla’s Cybertruck is still uncertain. However, the undeniable superiority of electric trucks is imminent, marking the end of the infinite preorder era and attracting a broader audience beyond early adopters.
Ford’s recent release, the Platinum Black Edition, with its intensified black colour, aims to attract buyers considering the gas-powered F-150 Raptor. Regardless of the chosen model, rising demand is anticipated as more people experience and embrace electric trucks, particularly those seeking relief from high gas prices and limited daily mileage.
Blog News Ford at:
2023 Ford Bronco Outer Banks – Premium Options & Packages
Need A New Car? How To Get The Best Deal On A Used Vehicle
