The next Ford F-150 Lightning will be a range extender hybrid
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Ford has confirmed a major evolution of the F-150 Lightning, saying the next version will be an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV).
The new F-150 Lightning EREV is designed to combine the instant torque and smooth driving characteristics of a fully electric powertrain with the long-distance capability traditionally associated with petrol and diesel trucks. Ford says the generator-backed system will deliver an estimated driving range of more than 700 miles (around 1125km). That’s more than double what the current all-electric version can achieve.
Electric drive, extended freedom
The next-gen Lightning remains 100 percent electric-driven, adopting a Series hybrid set up meaning the wheels will be powered solely by the electric motors. The difference is the addition of an onboard generator that produces electricity when required, reducing the need for charging stops on long journeys or during heavy towing. You simply fill it with gas to keep trucking.
Ford says this approach allows owners to enjoy the full EV experience, quiet operation, rapid acceleration and strong low-end torque, without sacrificing the ability to tow over long distances. As with the current Lightning, the new model will also feature exportable power, allowing it to supply electricity for worksites, campsites or even homes during power outages.
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Doug Field, Ford’s chief EV, digital and design officer, said the new model builds directly on what customers already value in the Lightning. “The F-150 Lightning is a groundbreaking product that demonstrated an EV pickup can still be a great F-Series,” he said. “Our next-generation F-150 Lightning EREV will be every bit as revolutionary… with a high-power generator enabling an estimated range of 700+ miles, it tows like a locomotive.”
Built for serious work
Ford is positioning the EREV Lightning as a no-compromise electric truck, aimed at buyers who need heavy-duty towing and the ability to travel long distances without planning their day around charging infrastructure. The company says towing and cross-country travel will be just as effortless as everyday commuting.
The announcement comes as Ford prepares to end production of the current F-150 Lightning later this year. The next-generation model will continue to be built at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, maintaining the Lightning’s place within Ford’s broader F-Series lineup.
Ford has not yet confirmed launch timing or full specifications for the next-generation F-150 Lightning EREV, but says more details will be shared closer to its market introduction.
