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Ford’s next F-150 Lightning will have a gas generator as it pivots away fromlarge EVs
Ford is discontinuing the fully-electric F-150 Lightning amidst a shift in EV strategies, replacing it with an 'extended-range electric vehicle' featuring a gas generator. The change is due to declining demand and high costs for large EVs. Ford will focus on hybrids and affordable EVs, with plans for a mid-sized electric pickup in 2027. The company anticipates a $19.5 billion charge related to these changes.
Key points
- Ford halts production of the F-150 Lightning due to eroded business case.
- Introduces an extended-range version with a gas generator to extend range over 700 miles.
- Reported a $19.5 billion charge affecting vehicle and battery factories.
- Plans for a new model ('T3') have been scrapped; future focus will be on profitable vehicles.
- Stresses on hybrid and affordable EV strategies rather than large EVs.
- Current E-Transit model will continue production but plans for a next-gen commercial van are abandoned.
- Ford sold approximately 7,000 Lightnings per quarter, peaking at 11,000 in Q4 2024.
Why it matters
- The shift is indicative of the challenges faced by legacy automakers as they adapt to rapidly changing EV markets.
- In 2025, the trend toward mid-sized and smaller electric vehicles is expected to grow due to consumer preferences and regulatory pressures.
- Ford's move reflects broader industry challenges with rising EV costs and changing political landscapes affecting EV incentives.
Ford's pivot from fully electric to extended-range vehicles highlights the ongoing struggles in the EV sector, driven by market demand and external pressures, positioning itself for better profitability through strategic vehicle offerings.