Ford has confirmed its current battery-electric F-150 Lightning will be discontinued and replaced by a new extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version – signalling a clear shift in Ford’s EV strategy. 

An Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) is essentially an electric vehicle with a built-in generator (usually powered by petrol or diesel). The next-gen Lightning will use this generator-assisted electric drivetrain rather than relying solely on a large battery. It’s still driven entirely by electric motors, but the onboard generator extends the total driving range to an estimated 700 miles (1127km).

“The F-150 Lightning is a groundbreaking product that demonstrated an EV pickup can still be a great F-Series,” said Doug Field, Ford’s chief EV, digital and design officer. “Our next-generation F-150 Lightning EREV will be every bit as revolutionary. 

“It delivers everything Lightning customers love – near instantaneous torque and pure electric driving. But with a high-power generator enabling an estimated range of 700+ miles, it tows like a locomotive. Heavy-duty towing and cross-country travel will be as effortless as the daily commute.”

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Exportable power will remain a feature, allowing the Lightning to run tools, campsite equipment, or even provide backup electricity for a home.

The new F-150 Lightning EREV will also be assembled at Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan. Detailed specifications, launch timing and market availability have yet to be announced, and there’s no confirmation of right-hand-drive production or Australian availability.

While never officially part of the Ford Australia line-up, the current battery-electric Ford F-150 Lightning has dual electric motors with all-wheel drive, producing up to 433kW and 1050Nm. The extended-range battery offers around 515km of EPA-estimated range. Payload is up to 907kg and towing up to 4536 kg with the Max Trailer Tow package. It features Ford’s Pro Power Onboard and DC fast-charging up to around 150kW.

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