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Ford names electric F-150 the Lightning, with debut set for May 19

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Ford has officially announced the name of its highly anticipated all-electric F-150: the Ford F-150 Lightning. Along with the name reveal, Ford has also set the debut date for this groundbreaking electric pickup truck, which is set to make its public appearance on May 19, 2021. The F-150 Lightning is expected to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle market, combining the rugged capability of the traditional F-150 with the benefits of electric power.

The Return of an Iconic Name

The name “Lightning” is not new to the F-150 lineup. It was first used in the 1990s and early 2000s for the high-performance, street-focused SVT F-150 Lightning, which was renowned for its speed and power. By reviving the Lightning name, Ford is signaling that this new electric version of the F-150 will deliver impressive performance, albeit in a very different way—through electric propulsion rather than a high-powered gasoline engine.

The decision to use the Lightning name reflects Ford’s confidence in the new model’s ability to live up to the F-150’s legacy of strength, durability, and capability while also pushing the boundaries of what a pickup truck can be in the electric era.

A Milestone in Ford’s Electrification Strategy

The F-150 Lightning is a critical part of Ford’s broader electrification strategy, which includes the introduction of several new electric and hybrid models across its lineup. The F-150 is not only Ford’s best-selling vehicle but also one of the most popular vehicles in America, making the launch of an electric version a significant milestone for both the company and the automotive industry as a whole.

Ford has already promised that the F-150 Lightning will deliver the power, capability, and innovation that customers expect from the F-150 nameplate, but with the added benefits of zero emissions and lower operating costs. The electric F-150 will be built at Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan, a facility dedicated to the production of electric vehicles and powered by renewable energy.

What to Expect from the F-150 Lightning

While full details of the F-150 Lightning will be revealed at its debut, Ford has teased some of the truck’s key features. The F-150 Lightning is expected to offer impressive towing and payload capabilities, along with the durability that has made the F-150 a household name. It will also come equipped with advanced technology features, including over-the-air software updates and Ford’s latest driver-assistance systems.

One of the standout features is likely to be the F-150 Lightning’s dual electric motor setup, providing all-wheel drive and instant torque for quick acceleration and strong performance in various driving conditions. Additionally, the electric powertrain is expected to deliver a significant range on a single charge, making it a practical choice for both work and everyday driving.

The F-150 Lightning will also likely include Ford’s Pro Power Onboard system, which turns the truck into a mobile generator, capable of powering tools, electronics, and even homes in the event of a power outage. This feature has already been well-received in the hybrid F-150 and is expected to be a key selling point for the electric version.

Debut and Availability

The Ford F-150 Lightning will make its official debut on May 19, 2021, in a live-streamed event that promises to showcase the truck’s capabilities and features. Ford enthusiasts, potential customers, and industry watchers alike are eagerly anticipating this reveal, as it marks a major step forward in the electrification of one of the world’s most iconic vehicles.

Production of the F-150 Lightning is expected to begin later in 2022, with deliveries following soon after. As Ford continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the F-150 Lightning is poised to play a central role in the company’s transition to a more sustainable, electric future.

Conclusion

The naming and debut announcement of the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning marks an exciting moment in the evolution of the F-150 lineup. With its blend of performance, capability, and cutting-edge technology, the F-150 Lightning is set to redefine what an electric pickup truck can be. As the automotive world eagerly awaits its official debut, the F-150 Lightning promises to be a game-changer for both Ford and the broader electric vehicle market.

  • Chad Kirchner

    Chad is the Editor-in-Chief and founder of Destination Charged. He has nearly 15 years of experience in the automotive industry, working for a variety of publications in both print and online. He was also the co-founder of EV Pulse, another site devoted to electrification in automotive.

    View all posts

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