THE TRUCK OF THE FUTURE IS HERE: ALL-ELECTRIC FORD F-150 LIGHTNING

All-Electric Power to Wow, More Connected Technology, Elevated Drive Experience and Built Ford Tough Capability

Super Powers Only Electric Can Deliver
F-Series, America’s best-selling truck for 44 years1, charges into the future with the F-150 Lightning, elevated by all the advantages of electrification and packed with connected technology. F-150 Lightning is a powerhouse that delivers a targeted 563 horsepower and 775 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any F-150 ever – an exhilarating drive, a high-tech frunk, and the ability to power your home if needed.

Advanced Tech Now – to Guide You into the Future
F-150 Lightning offers an ingenious array of connected, intelligent features that improve over time via over-the-air software updates; FordPass app provides seamless access to charging stations and remote vehicle controls; available BlueCruise offers true hands-free driving on the highway, while enhanced Pro Power Onboard powers job sites or campsites.

No Question: Built Ford Tough Comes Standard
Powered by dual in-board motors and with standard 4×4, F-150 Lightning can take on rough terrain with Built Ford Tough durability and capability. Along with a high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy body, a new independent rear suspension delivers improved ride comfort, while an all-new frame uses the strongest steel ever put in an F-150 frame and supports a maximum 2,000-pound payload and up to 10,000-pound towing capacity.

DEARBORN, Mich., May 19, 2021 – The truck of the future is here. The F-150 Lightning is the smartest, most innovative truck Ford has ever built. From near instant torque to intelligent towing, seamless connectivity to software updates, plus power for your home, a power frunk and a digital screen that’s larger than any currently offered on a full-size truck – F-150 Lightning is a driving and ownership experience unlike any other.

F-150 Lightning will roll off the line next year at a new high-tech factory using sustainable manufacturing practices at Ford’s storied Rouge complex in Dearborn just outside Detroit.

“For both Ford and the American auto industry, F-150 Lightning represents a defining moment as we progress toward a zero-emissions, digitally connected future,” said Bill Ford, executive chair, Ford Motor Company. “F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 44 years, the backbone of work across the country, and a trusted icon for generations of customers. Now we are revolutionizing it for a new generation.”

F-150 Lightning is a pillar of the company’s more than $22 billion global electric vehicle plan to lead electrification in areas of strength. Ford is starting with zero-emissions versions of its most popular and best-loved franchises – Mustang, Transit and F-150 – with much more to come in the years ahead.

Wickedly quick off the mark, quiet and smooth, F-150 Lightning delivers a new experience for truck owners at a starting price on par with today’s similarly configured F-150 trucks. The electric platform unlocks new capabilities as well – such as enough energy to power an entire home and a massive lockable frunk with power and charging capabilities to spare. Ford will deploy standard over-the-air software updates – called Ford Power-Up – to improve the technology experience, add new features and fix issues without trips to the dealership.

All this and more is backed by proven Built Ford Tough F-Series durability and capability and the largest public charging network in North America.The commercial-oriented entry model starts at $39,974 MSRP3 before any federal or state tax credits, while the mid-series XLT model starts at $52,974 MSRP, offering additional comfort and technology.

“The F-150 Lightning is a massive moment for our Ford team. America’s No. 1 auto brand is going zero emissions with America’s favorite vehicle. It’s quicker than a Raptor, with standard 4×4 and independent rear suspension; a power frunk, enough juice to run your house for three days or power an awesome tailgate; and it will forever improve with over-the-air updates,” said Ford President and CEO Jim Farley. “It will be built at the Rouge factory, where Henry Ford changed the world and my grandfather punched in every day. F-150 Lightning represents all that our country can do when we push for progress.”

F-150 Lightning targets 563 horsepower, 775 lb.-ft. of near instantaneous torque4 – more than any F-150 ever – and a 0-60 mph time in the mid-4-second range when equipped with an extended-range battery, based on typical industry methodology. F-150 Lightning targets a maximum 2,000 pounds of payload in the standard-range model with 18-inch wheels, and a maximum 10,000 pounds of available towing capacity on XLT and Lariat trucks with the extended-range battery and Max Trailer Tow Package. The low center of gravity brings even more confident handling whether traveling along rain-slicked roads or through sand.

“We’re not here to make an electric truck for the few – Ford is committed to building one that solves real problems for real people,” said Kumar Galhotra, Ford president, Americas and International Markets Group, Ford Motor Company. “F-150 Lightning delivers everything we’ve said electric vehicles can offer, plus the capability expected from a Built Ford Tough truck – not just near instant torque but powerful towing and hauling customers can depend on.”

Smart, Connected – And Better Over Time

Packed with intelligent features, F-150 Lightning epitomizes how Ford combines advanced digital technologies with proven engineering know-how to create a truck that’s even smarter and more productive. As part of available Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology, BlueCruise allows for true hands-free driving on more than 100,000 miles of pre-qualified divided highways in the U.S. and Canada – with more Hands-Free Blue Zones to come in the future5.

Another example is available Onboard Scales, which uses the truck’s sensors to estimate payload and tell customers how much they’re hauling. And since payload can impact range, Onboard Scales is integrated with Intelligent Range to help ensure F-150 Lightning gives an accurate estimate of how far you can go. F-150 Lightning debuts available Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, which automatically controls steering, throttle and brake inputs to make hitching trailers even easier.

Also making its F-Series debut on select vehicles is available Phone As A Key. When activated, this allows customers to lock, unlock and start their truck without taking their phone out of their pocket or using a key fob.

All these features and more can get even better over time with Ford Power-Up software updates. These can help improve the performance of F-150 Lightning, deliver quality upgrades, update existing features and add all-new functions and capabilities. The majority of updates will be completed in under two minutes and whenever the customer chooses6.

Advanced Digital Experience

Making its truck debut on F-150 Lightning in the Lariat and Platinum series is SYNC® 4A – a sleek, modern interface supported by a 15.5-inch touch screen and designed to adapt to driver behavior. SYNC 4A employs natural voice control, cloud-connected navigation and wireless access to your favorite services: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, integrated Amazon Alexa and SYNC AppLink apps.

Elevating the digital experience even further is the 12-inch instrument cluster, featuring a customizable interface that instills confidence by naturally surfacing key information. Animated graphics smoothly relay how the vehicle is performing in hands-free highway driving mode or how well you’re bringing power back to your vehicle through regenerative braking, seamlessly providing relevant information as needed.

“It really is the smartest F-150 we’ve ever made,” said Darren Palmer, general manager, Battery Electric Vehicles, Ford Motor Company. “F-150 Lightning offers an immersive touch screen, giving our customers all the info they want in an instant – a real-time view of where they’re going, what they’re hauling or how much real-world range they’ve got banked. And with Ford Power-Up software updates, the experience is only going to get better.”

Revolutionary Power At Home

Debuting on F-150 Lightning is available Ford Intelligent Backup Power, turning your truck into the ultimate power source for your home. With the ability to offload 9.6 kilowatts of power, Ford Intelligent Backup Power keeps the lights on during an outage while providing security by powering home appliances, security systems and more.

“Whether sheltering during a storm or trying to stay safe in a heat wave, customers can now use their truck to give themselves power when they need it most,” said Ryan O’Gorman, electric vehicle manager, Strategic Partnerships. “F-150 Lightning is built for seamless transitions between charging your vehicle and powering your house when needed – and Ford is the first in the U.S. to offer this capability on an electric truck.”

With Ford Intelligent Backup Power, enabled by the available 80-amp Ford Charge Station Pro and home management system Ford can help install, F-150 Lightning automatically kicks in to power your house. Once power is restored, the truck automatically reverts to charging its battery. Based on an average 30kWh of use per day, F-150 Lightning with extended-range battery provides full-home power for up to three days, or as long as 10 days if power is rationed, with results varying based on energy usage.

In the future, Ford will introduce Ford Intelligent Power, which can use the truck to power homes during high-cost, peak-energy hours while taking advantage of low-cost overnight rates to charge the vehicle in time for your morning drive. This can help save money on electricity that powers your vehicle and home while also taking pressure off the grid in peak usage times.

Ford is also teaming up with the nation’s leading solar company, Sunrun, to facilitate easy installation of the 80-amp Ford Charge Station Pro and home integration system. Through this collaboration, customers will also have the opportunity to install solar energy on their home, enabling them to power their household with clean, affordable energy and charge their F-150 Lightning with the power of the sun.

Stay Plugged in on the Road

Power capability is not limited to the home, either. With enhanced Pro Power Onboard, customers can take advantage of built-in electrical outlets to directly power a variety of tools, electronics and appliances away from home. Standard on base trims is 2.4 kilowatts of power with the option for more, while Lariat and Platinum series come standard with 9.6 kilowatts of power – a combination of up to 2.4 kilowatts available through the frunk and up to 7.2 kilowatts through outlets in the cab and bed.

Smart features make power management easier than ever. Customers receive a FordPass notification if their truck’s battery falls below one-third of its total range, and they can even set the truck to stop using Pro Power Onboard if the battery level approaches the distance to the nearest charging station.

All these capabilities are possible thanks to the truck’s powerful next-generation lithium-ion battery. F-150 Lightning offers two options: a standard-range battery targeting 230 miles of EPA-estimated range and an extended-range battery targeting 300 miles of EPA-estimated range7.

Front-Loaded

Under the hood is a versatile, high-tech mega power frunk offering dedicated storage space that’s secure, lockable and easily accessible by a powered open and close system. This spacious area targets 400 liters of volume and 400 pounds of payload – enough to stow two carry-on bags and one checked bag, or two sets of golf clubs.

Cleverly designed with bumper-height clearance, this water-resistant space comes equipped with four electrical outlets, two USB chargers and a drainable floor that can double as a food and beverage container. It can easily power a mobile work site or an epic tailgate. With 2.4 kilowatts of power, there’s enough capability to plug in power tools, TVs, laptops, speakers, crockpots and more.

“The words ‘front trunk’ don’t even begin to describe all the innovation and capability Ford packed into this high-powered space,” said Nancy Reppenhagen, supervisor, Global Feature Process. “It will have customers rethinking what their truck is capable of – and enable the kinds of experiences they never would have thought possible before.”

Built Ford Tough Comes Standard

F-150 Lightning goes through the same tortuous Built Ford Tough testing as all F-Series trucks. The military-grade aluminum alloy body and upgraded frame support the advanced battery, while the first F-Series independent rear suspension and low center of gravity help improve isolation from the road, provide a more stable ride and reduce steering roll – while maintaining the durability and reliability expected from F-150.

“Whether they’re hauling a bed full of firewood through snow or towing a trailer on a road trip, customers need to be able to rely on their truck’s performance,” said Linda Zhang, chief engineer, F-150 Lightning. “This all-electric truck has been engineered with dual in-board motors, which means it can take on rough terrain. Our team of engineers has run the same arduous test regimen our F-150 customers have learned to expect from Ford.”

F-150 Lightning boasts excellent off-road performance, with a 4×4 system featuring four selectable drive modes: Normal, Sport, Off Road and Tow/Haul. Rugged underbody protection keeps the battery safe, with metal skid plates shielding both the battery and inboard motors from tough terrain. The battery itself is secured inside waterproof casing surrounded by crash-absorption protection and has been tested at temperatures as extreme as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure Lightning can perform when needed most.

Rigorous endurance testing included running the truck through Iowa Hill, Calif., where it towed massive trailers for long durations up and down steep inclines. As a result, F-150 Lightning sports a state-of-the-art liquid cooling system and powertrain layout that expertly manages heat distribution across the vehicle. Improved cooling systems and components ensure the truck can thrive even in the toughest driving ordeals.

Going Electric, Made Easy

Ford has your back when it comes to charging. Ford is the only automaker to offer an 80-amp charge station as standard equipment, helping customers easily charge an extended-range truck at home. This system takes advantage of the only dual onboard charging system on an electric truck in the industry for even faster home charging. With this, F-150 Lightning adds an average range of 30 miles per charging hour, fully charging an extended-range truck from 15% to 100% percent in about eight hours8.

On the road, customers have seamless access to North America’s largest public charging network through FordPass, with more than 63,000 charging plugs and growing across the U.S. On a 150-kilowatt DC fast charger, extended-range F-150 Lightning is targeted to get up to 54 miles of range in 10 minutes and charge from 15% to 80% percent in about 41 minutes8.

F-150 Lightning takes the guesswork out of when and where to re-charge with FordPass Power My Trip, which identifies charging routes before even starting your journey. In the truck, Intelligent Range accurately calculates range while factoring in weather, traffic, payload, towing weights and more. Cloud-connected navigation on SYNC 4 also identifies public charging locations and prompts owners to charge at convenient points on each drive.

Distinctive, High-Tech Design

F-150 Lightning is undeniably an F-Series truck. Building on the strength of the existing F-150 design DNA, Ford created a truck that epitomizes the toughness people love while adding a distinctly modern, high-tech flair. Key elements include available signature LED lightbars that run across the front and rear, plus three new grille designs that bring a bold new look to a familiar face while maintaining Built Ford Tough authenticity.

F-150 Lightning is the most aerodynamic F-150 ever9, with improvements like newly shaped running boards, a sculpted hood to reduce drag, and grilles that replace air intake holes with a smoother, textured surface. Even more functional design delivers available enhanced 360-degree Zone Lighting, which can light up a specific zone or the entire area around the vehicle.

And F-150 Lightning makes no compromises on space, maintaining the same cab and bed dimensions as its gas counterpart, so it remains capable of accommodating thousands of accessories already available. The available fold-out Interior Work Surface makes working inside the vehicle even easier and more productive, while available Max Recline Seats offer nearly 180 degrees of recline to help customers recharge as needed.

Proudly assembled in America, F-150 Lightning will make use of the new, state-of-the-art Rouge Electric Vehicle Center – which will also be a zero-waste-to-landfill site. Ford is investing $700 million into the historic Rouge Complex, adding 500 new jobs and employing advanced sustainable manufacturing technology to build the truck as part of its commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

Arriving in spring 2022, F-150 Lightning will be available in four series and two battery options at more than 2,300 EV-certified Ford dealers across the country, with the option for fleet customers to access Ford’s complete ecosystem of connected data and telematics services via Ford Commercial Solutions.

Reserve your spot in line today with a $100 deposit.

Learn more about the Ford F-150 Lightning in our Lightning Lowdown video series:

# # #

1Based on 1977-2020 CY total sales

 

2Based on original equipment manufacturers(OEM)/automotive manufacturers that sell all-electric vehicles and have publicly announced charging networks. Department of Energy data used. FordPass, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.

3Taxes, title and license fees extra.

 

4Based on manufacturer testing using computer engineering simulations. Calculated via peak performance of the electric motor(s) at peak battery power. Your results may vary.

5BlueCruise – Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving feature. Only remove hands from the steering wheel when in a Hands-Free Blue Zones. Always watch the road and be prepared to resume control of the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See owner’s manual for detail and limitations.

6FordPass Connect (optional on select vehicles), and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass Terms for details).  Connected service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi hotspot

 

7Excludes Platinum models. Based on full charge. U.S. EPA-targeted range based on analytical projection consistent with US EPA combined drive cycle. Actual range varies with conditions such as external environment, vehicle use, vehicle maintenance, lithium-ion battery age and state of health.

8Excludes Platinum models. Range and charge time based on manufacturer computer engineering simulations and analytical projection consistent with US EPA combined drive cycle. The charging rate decreases as battery reaches capacity. Results may vary based on peak charging times, battery state of charge. Actual range varies with conditions such as external environment, vehicle use, vehicle maintenance, lithium-ion battery age and state of health.

9Based on an equivalent body style/driveline/drivetrain.

Horsepower, torque, payload, towing and targeted EPA-estimated range are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford trucks, utility vehicles, and cars – increasingly including electrified versions – and Lincoln luxury vehicles; provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company; and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification; mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected vehicle services.  Ford employs approximately 186,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit corporate.ford.com.

Ford Global Fleet Sales Delivers Lifesaving Ambulances to Coscharis Motors

April 9th, 2020 Istanbul – Ford Global Fleet Sales (FGFS), Ford’s direct sales partner for export markets and special projects globally, today announced the delivery of two specially modified Ford Transit ambulances to Coscharis Motors Plc, a member of the Coscharis Group, a wholly-owned Nigerian conglomerate with businesses across various sectors.

 

Both Ford Transit vehicle modifications were carried out by RMA Automotive, RMA Group’s automotive division, in coordination with FGFS. The ambulances were fitted with features specially designed for end-use in Nigeria. These included IV holders, fluorescent lighting, climate control, ventilation systems and other critical equipment such as an oxygen tank, flow meter and stretcher space.

 

“Ford Global Fleet Sales is proud to collaborate with Coscharis Motors on the delivery of two lifesaving ambulances. With thousands of Ford Transit ambulances deployed worldwide, the vehicle is a workhorse known for its durability and dexterity, and it comes with an exceptional selection of life-saving equipment and internal capabilities. Our mission is to provide fleet solutions to aid organizations and governments in markets worldwide — partnering with Coscharis Motorsis a big step towards this goal,” said Chris Grakul, Regional Sales Manager, FGFS.

 

Also commenting on the collaboration, Abiona Babarinde, General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications of Coscharis Group stated, “we are thrilled to have these modified Ford Transit ambulances in our market. As the exclusive representative of the Ford brand in Nigeria, this enables us to further delight our numerous customers and prospects with exciting new options within the Ford brand.”

 

FGFS has been in collaboration with Nigerian companies and government bodies since its latest project, where nine Ford Rangers were delivered to the Nigerian Ministry of Budget and National Planning. By working with Coscharis Motors, FGFS continues building successful partnerships within the country.

 

FGFS continues to be the leading provider of Ford vehicles for export markets and special projects across the globe and has delivered over 100,000 vehicles to nearly 100 countries to date.

Top Expert Tips for Fleet Management

Top Expert Tips for Fleet Management

In business there are some occupations that are easy, and some that are not so easy and fleet management falls into the latter category. It is not just about getting company vehicles on the road; it requires the ability to merge mechanical and human abilities into one functioning unit.

A group or collection of company vehicles is called a fleet, so as the title says, it is about the management of a fleet of vehicles. These vehicles can be commercial motor vehicles such as carsvanstrucks, specialist vehicles (such as mobile construction machinery), and trailers. It can also include planes and helicopters, ships and rail cars.

But vehicles don’t drive themselves, well not yet, so there is also the human element that needs to be taken into account and managed.

A Fleet Manager must look after the fleet, the drivers and what else?

A Fleet Manager’s responsibilities

Fleet management includes a range of functions such as vehicle financing, vehicle maintenance, vehicle tracking and diagnostics, driver management, speed management, fuel management and health and safety management.

They are responsible for purchasing and insuring the vehicles, ensuring that the vehicles are maintained and able to function as required. This is done by allocating manpower and financial resources.

A Fleet Manager also needs to be held accountable for the employees that drive the vehicles – the safety of the drivers, what to do if the vehicle is stolen or involved in an accident – as well as all legal implications.

 

7 Top Tips for Fleet Managers

 

1. Empower your team

As a Fleet Manager, don’t take all the responsibility, rather be an overseer and make people responsible for the vehicle they drive.

  • Have them do daily, weekly and monthly vehicle inspections, and document this.
  • Report maintenance issues. They drive the vehicles daily – not you.
2. Measurement

Track vehicles and drivers with data relevant to your industry and requirements.

Monitor the following:

  • Delivery times
  • Petrol usage
  • Distance travelled
  • Recurring vehicle problems
  • Maintenance issues

Keeping track of all of this data will help you manage your fleet efficiently and accurately.

3. Responsibility

Define who is responsible for what role.

  • A clear and simple policy and procedure will prevent future problems.
  • Drivers should always have a performance standard to conform to.
4. Staff employment

Just because a potential employee has a driver’s license doesn’t mean they are the correct candidate for the position. Different vehicle classes have different licence requirements. Employ the correct drivers for the class of vehicle they will drive.

5. Budgets

Fleet management is not a guessing game.

  • Understand all of the running, licensing and servicing costs of your fleet.
  • Include allowances for breakdown, unexpected repairs and vehicle rentals.
  • Insure your vehicles, drivers, goods in transit – insure everything.
6. Route planning
  • Use online route trackers and a GPS system to create cost effective and time saving routes.
  • Get your drivers involved – make them part of the solution not the problem.
  • Don’t micro-manage.
  • Use web based telematics systems to monitor driver behaviour, including speeding, hard braking, or rapid acceleration.
7. Training

Up skill your drivers, have them trained to improve their driving skills and other relevant knowledge required to do their job best.

Ensure they know:

  • how to drive defensively, handle wet weather and other hazardous road conditions.
  • how to drive the vehicle efficiently, such as excess idling, speeding, harsh acceleration and braking.
  • what to do if involved in a vehicle accident.
  • how to deal with customers – a driver is not just a driver but a representative of your company.
RMA Fleet Management experts

RMA is a distinguished fleet solutions provider to Aid and Development missions and security forces globally.

Fleet productivity is the result of careful long-term planning of the vehicle’s life cycle. A GFS Fleet Solutions Program is a comprehensive fleet asset management system covering all aspects of creating and maintaining vehicles for successful operations.

The importance of Fleet Management

Fleet Management is a function which allows companies that rely on transportation in business to remove or minimize the risks associated with vehicle investment, improving efficiencyproductivity and reducing their overall transportation and staff costs, providing 100% compliance with government legislation.

Fleet Management is important in ensuring your fleet drivers are safe. It is also about good driving habits, fuel efficiency and ensuring the vehicle is maintained and running well.

Applying these tips will assist you in improving the management of your fleet vehicles – whether your fleet is big or small – a fleet of two scooters, or a fleet of 200 trucks.

Sources

Ford Global Fleet Sales Reveals Expertly Modified Vehicles at the Defense & Security Show 2019

Ford Global Fleet Sales Reveals Expertly Modified Vehicles at the
Defense & Security Show 2019

FORD GLOBAL FLEET SALES has revealed its latest expertly modified military, security and armored Ford vehicles at DEFENSE & SECURITY 2019 taking place in Bangkok, Thailand from 18-21 November 2019, at IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center. Now in its 15th year, this biennial international military and civil indoor/outdoor exhibition covering land, air and sea military equipment, defense technology and internal security is a one-stop platform for Asian Defense Procurement. It is fully supported by the Thai Ministry of Defense and the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

 

THE FORD EVEREST LIGHT UTILITY VEHICLE is a heavy duty off-road SUV customized with protective vehicle components including an optional bull bar and window protection. An upgraded brake and suspension package improves safety and handling and reduces maintenance costs and downtime.

THE FORD RANGER LIGHT TACTICAL VEHICLE is a heavy duty pick-up developed for military use. FGFS offers customized military applications to suit customers’ exact needs. This includes a bull bar, enhanced handling suspension package and in-vehicle gun rack.

THE FORD EVEREST ARMORED VEHICLE is a superior off-road SUV armored for discreet protection. Everest Armor offers an upgraded brake and suspension package to enhance performance and safety. Opaque armor and roof armor range from B4 (NIJ IIIa) to B6 (NIJ III). Transparent areas are standard EN1063, level BR4 to BR6. The floor provides protection against two DM51 or DM61 hand grenades. Tire retention system enables driving with punctured tires.

FORD GLOBAL FLEET SALES is Ford’s Global Export Distributor. With access to nearly Ford’s entire product line and access to over 100 markets, FGFS can provide fleet solutions around the world. FGFS has engineering facilities on four continents that have the ability to provide custom vehicle solutions on Ford Ranger, Everest, and Transit.

Since the 1980s FGFS has provided critical vehicle sales, after-sales support, and comprehensive fleet management systems to aid organizations and governments in developing & post-conflict markets.