Ford is adapting its electric F-150 Lightning pickup truck to meet shifting market demands. The current, fully electric model will be discontinued after 2025, replaced by a new “Extended-Range Electric Vehicle” (EREV) version that combines battery power with a gas-powered generator. This move responds to consumer concerns about range and towing capacity, particularly for long-distance use.
The Shift to Extended Range
The original F-150 Lightning offered an electric range of up to 320 miles. While competitive, this proved insufficient for some buyers, especially those who frequently tow heavy loads. The EREV addresses this limitation by integrating a gas generator that can boost the total range to over 700 miles.
This isn’t just about mileage; it’s about practicality. Many EV truck owners reported range anxiety when towing, as the electric motor drains the battery faster under load. The gas generator eliminates this issue, allowing for uninterrupted long-distance towing without frequent charging stops.
Competition and Performance
The Ford EREV will compete directly with other extended-range electric trucks, most notably the Ram 1500 REV. Ram’s offering boasts a range of up to 690 miles and a towing capacity of 14,000 pounds with 647 horsepower. While Ford hasn’t released exact specs for the Lightning EREV, the company’s leadership suggests similar performance.
Doug Field, Ford’s chief EV officer, stated that the new model will deliver “effortless” towing and cross-country travel, ensuring the Lightning remains a robust work truck. The goal is to keep the instant torque and electric driving experience that made the original Lightning popular, while removing range as a barrier to entry.
Why This Matters
Ford’s decision reflects a broader trend in the EV market: realism over idealism. Early EV adoption was driven by pure-electric solutions, but as the market matures, manufacturers are acknowledging the need for hybrid approaches that address consumer pain points.
The move also highlights the continued dominance of trucks in the American automotive landscape. Ford is betting that a hybrid powertrain will allow them to retain truck buyers who might otherwise hesitate to switch to a fully electric model.
The Lightning EREV will be released over the next few months, and full details are still pending.
