Ford Launches All-Electric F-Series Truck

Ford started the production of its F-150 Lightning truck, an all-electric version of the F-Series pickup that has been a top seller for 45 years in a row. Ford has seen an unprecedented demand for this vehicle, with 200,000 reservations.

The F-150 Lightning will be built at the Rouge Complex within Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Michigan, US. The OEM has invested over US$1billion in the state in preparation for the manufacture of the F-150 Lighting and US$950 million in the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center. The F-150 Lightning truck is a “10-kilowatt smart power plant on wheels,” with an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in four seconds

“America’s real transition to electric vehicles starts now. The F-150 Lightning is just the beginning of our ambitions for growth and leadership in digital, electric vehicles. We continue to expand our EV manufacturing footprint across the US, including the start of site preparation at BlueOval City, which will enable us to meet the ever-increasing customer demand for our exciting EV line-up,” said Jim Farley, President and CEO, Ford.

As cars continue adapting to emerging technologies and digital innovations, they are starting to become smart devices of their own. EV manufacturers are focusing on user experience by creating an entirely new marketing model and relationship with drivers, as reported by MBN. This opens up a world of add-ons and services to improve the offered experience. For this reason, Ford integrated FordPass in the F-150 Lightning truck, which is the only app that lets drivers earn points for complimentary maintenance, according to Ford. 

“The team has done a phenomenal job ensuring we are offering customers unique features only made possible by the electric power unit. But it is the drive experience that will blow people’s minds. It is simply effortless,” said Linda Zhang, Chief Program Engineer, F-150.

Electrification is part of Ford’s efforts toward a more sustainable automotive industry. Ford was recognized as an automotive industry leader for environmental performance in the 2022 Ranking of America’s Most JUST Companies. Ford also recently announced the separation of its EV and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle businesses as part of its plan to become a leader in the EV market, as reported by MBN.

Ford has relied on Mexico as a partner to achieve its global electromobility goals. According to US Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar, US companies are investing in Mexico to increase electromobility in the region. Ford is one of these; it produces 77,000 annual Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles per year in its Cuautitlan plant. “Ford Cuatitlán is one of the most important facilities in the brand globally and it is a referent of technology, quality, procedure optimization, sustainability, inclusion and diversity” said Enrique Araiza, Manufacturing Director, Ford Mexico, at the anniversary of the Mustang Mach-E production.