As electric vehicle sales continue to surge in the United States, the Ford F-150 Lightning has emerged as a popular choice among consumers. This fully electric pickup truck offers a unique blend of power, efficiency, and versatility, making it an attractive option for both personal and commercial use.
Electric Vehicle Sales and Infrastructure
Electric vehicle sales in the US increased by 65% in 2022 compared to 2021, with the Ford F-150 Lightning contributing to this growth. However, the US still lags behind China and Europe in electric vehicle sales, accounting for only 5% of the market in 2021. As more consumers make the switch to electric vehicles, the need for improved charging infrastructure and incentives, such as tax credits, becomes increasingly important.
Charging and Range Considerations
While charging stations are not as prevalent as gas stations, the infrastructure is improving. Charging times vary depending on the voltage, with 240-volt chargers taking 10-12 hours for a full charge and higher voltage chargers reducing that time to as little as 45 minutes. Planning is necessary for long-distance trips, and many electric vehicle owners adopt a strategy of using their electric vehicle for shorter trips and a gas-powered or hybrid vehicle for longer excursions.
Vehicle-to-Grid Potential and Legislation
California is proposing a bill that would require all new electric vehicles sold in the state starting in 2027 to have the ability to both stores and send power, effectively turning them into backup power supplies for the state’s grid. This would add a few hundred dollars to the price of electric vehicles but could provide significant benefits in terms of grid stability and resilience. The Ford F-150 Lightning is one of the few electric vehicles currently available that is ready for two-way charging, with a 130kWh battery capacity that can power a home during a power outage for up to three days.
Pricing and Competition
The Ford F-150 Lightning initially started at around $40,000, but its current price is nearly $60,000 due to material costs, market factors, and ongoing supply chain issues. Despite these price increases, owners like Adrian Padilla, who drives his F-150 Lightning Lariat EV 220 miles per day without needing to publicly charge, find the electric truck to be a better deal than their previous gas-powered vehicles. As more electric pickups enter the market, competition may drive prices down and make electric trucks even more appealing to consumers.
