Pursuing a Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Course? Check Out the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
As more people embrace sustainability, the automotive industry is beginning to shift in that direction. Manufacturers have been introducing innovative electric vehicles as part of their recent lineups, showcasing powerful cars that deliver a standout performance while factoring the environment—and the Ford F-150 Lightning is no exception.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an updated, electric version of the gas-powered F-150 family truck. The original model has been a best-seller in America for years, and the new hybrid version has the potential to become one of the more popular electric vehicles in the market. Offering customers a standard-range battery as well as an extended-range battery for an estimated 370.2 to 482.8 km range, the Ford F-150 may be of notable interest to students completing their hybrid and electrical mechanic training. Read on to discover what you can expect from Ford’s all-electric pickup truck!
Exploring the Interior and Exterior Design Features
The Ford F-150 Lightning takes a lot of inspiration from its predecessor, the Ford F-150. It measures around 591 cm long with a 368.3-cm wheelbase, maintaining similar proportions to the Ford F-150. However, unlike other Ford pickup trucks, this one includes an independent rear suspension. According to Ford, the car frame also features “the strongest steel ever put in an F-150.”
Seats are fully adjustable for maximum comfort, and the five-seat interior also includes a table that stows away into the center armrest. This provides extra practicality, designed to meet various customer needs. The addition of an all-electric powertrain instead of an engine also creates ample space for a “frunk,” or front truck storage. To be exact, it can hold up to 181.4 kg.
Students taking a hybrid and electrical mechanic course may be keen to know that the battery pack also contributes to lowering the car’s center of gravity while pushing the weight rearwards. As a result, it features a very close 50:50 weight distribution, making the car feel more stable and accommodating.
How the F-150 Lightning Performs for Those in Auto Mechanic School
The F-150 Lightning will feature two motors, coming in the standard four-wheel drive with four drive modes. It even includes a one-pedal driving system that can be enabled. Students in hybrid and electrical mechanic training may be interested to know that the car comes in two different battery options: the 98-kWh model producing 452 hp and the 130-kWh with 580 hp—noted as the strongest F-150 thus far. Both of these options deliver 775 lb-ft torque, with a 0-60 time of 4 seconds.
The EV powertrain layout is designed to efficiently distribute heat across the vehicle, and an improved liquid cooling system contributes to these efforts. The F-150 Lightning has been noted to tow around 3,493 to 4,536 kg depending on the battery range, featuring a payload of about 751 to 1,014 kg. To provide an accurate estimate of how the load impacts the car’s range, Ford has included Onboarding Scales. This technology relies on sensors for intelligent range functionality insights.
Notable Tech Specs and Charging Features to Consider
As seen in the video below, the F-150 Lightning introduces impressive home charging capabilities. The Ford Charge Station Pro makes it possible for customers to restore power in their homes during a power outage—assuming that the right setup is in place. According to Ford, the larger battery option is equipped to power an average US home for up to three days or up to 10 days if electricity was appropriately rationed.
Check out this video to learn more about this exciting feature:
It should be noted that the car includes multiple 120-volt outages and USB ports for convenient connectivity. These are located in the cabin, frunk, and bed—which also features a 240-volt outlet. This makes the F-150 Lightning extremely practical for longer trips, enabling customers to quickly and easily charge their belongings, everything from camping tools and gear to electrical devices.
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