The Ford F-150 Lightning is a departure for Ford. The all-electric truck has received some resistance from die-hard Ford fans since it was announced. The F-150 has been Ford’s best-selling vehicle for 45 consecutive years. The F-150 Lightning has completely revamped the F-150, which was a bold move for Ford, given its long history.
However, Ford is no stranger to innovation. After all, it was the Model T that they introduced in 1908 that changed the automotive industry forever. Let’s take a look at the F-150 Lightning and its two-way charging system that could change the way we deal with power outages.
Details of the Ford F-150 Lightning electric truck
When Ford began designing the exterior of the F-150 Lightning, they wanted to make the transition as smooth as possible for hardcore F-150 fans. The exterior looks almost identical to its predecessor with only a few minor changes. However, you won’t find a big motor when you open the hood. Instead, you’ll find a giant frunk (front trunk) with a power port to power your gadgets.
An impressive 10,000 lb towing capacity and extended battery range of up to 320 miles make it an easy transition for those on the fence. Plus, its target 563 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque make it easier than ever to convince consumers it’s still a tough Ford build.
The base price of the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is $39,974. However, it may also qualify for a $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles, and this tax credit will reduce the total price to $32,474. However, one of the F-150’s features, the Home Integration System, leaves consumers wondering if it’s worth the price.
What is Home Integration System?
One of the most interesting features of the Ford F-150 Lightning is the Home Integration System. According to InsideEVs, it’s a two-way charging system that lets you use the F-150 to charge your home.
However, the unit that needs to be installed in your home to allow it costs $3,895. The charge is in addition to the Ford Charge Station Pro, a Level 2 home charging station that can charge an F-150 Lightning in 8 hours. The Home Integration System consists of an inverter, transfer switch and battery that can run your home in the event of a power outage. As long as the truck is fully charged during a power outage, it should be able to power your home for about three days.
Delays in production for the F-150 Lightning
Many automakers have missed out on their plans for this year due to a global shortage of semiconductor chips, and Ford is not immune to drought. Initially, orders were supposed to open just a few days before Halloween in 2021. However, the schedule was pushed back.
Even with this delay, Ford fans are still ordering to buy. Some consumers could wait as long as three years before receiving the F-150 Lightning if they order now. As a result of this overwhelming demand, Ford is already making plans for the second-generation F-150 Lightning to go into production in 2025.
Ford has been a leader in the automotive industry for more than 100 years. Unlike newer EV automakers like Tesla and Rivian, Ford has the luxury of having a long history with consumers, and that gives them an edge. If anyone can convince car buyers against the EV revolution, it’s Ford.
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