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Ford trucks have been a staple in my family for generations. Some of my fondest childhood memories involve riding in my Dad’s 1950 Ford F-1 during his farming days. Later, he relied on a 4-wheel-drive F-250 for various tasks around the property. Over the years, I’ve owned several of my own, including a 1984 Ford Ranger, two Broncos, a 1999 Ranger, and now, our trusty F-350 Super Duty, which we’ve affectionately named the Behemoth. My loyalty to Ford trucks remains unwavering, and I plan to stick with them.
This past Tuesday, Ford strengthened my allegiance by introducing the F-150 “Lightning,” their fully electric rendition of the iconic best-seller.
Let’s decode some of the announcements: when they mention an “extended range version,” it’s likely referring to at least a hybrid model. Of course, the classic gas-powered F-150 isn’t going anywhere. It’s important to note that while electric cars have become more common, an electric truck designed for heavy-duty tasks like towing and hauling presents unique challenges, as these activities can significantly reduce the vehicle’s range.
This evolution in the F-150 lineup was inevitable, marking a broader transformation within the industry.
The impetus for these innovations is clear. Initially, environmental concerns and subsidies from the Biden administration played a role in pushing for such advancements. However, those incentives have since expired, yet the drive for change continues.
Let’s do some translation here: By “extended range version,” they likely mean a hybrid, at least. And, of course, the traditional gas-powered F-150 is still available. Bear in mind that an electric car is one thing, but an electric truck that may be expected to haul or tow a load is quite another; towing and hauling can dramatically cut an electric truck’s range.
This change was, let’s face it, inevitable. And it’s not just the F-150 that’s changing.
Ford will also introduce some manufacturing changes; its Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center — part of the BlueOval City campus and once the future of Ford’s EVs and batteries — is being renamed the Tennessee Truck Plant and will produce new affordable gas-powered trucks instead. Ford’s Ohio Assembly Plant will produce a new gas and hybrid van.
There’s a good reason for these changes; in the first place, we have to presume that the wailings of climate scolds, and now-defunct subsidies from the Biden administration, were part of the reasoning behind producing these things in the first place. Those no longer apply.