Ford has announced a new variant of its F-150 Lightning electric pick-up truck called the F-150 Lightning Flash. A technology-focused offering, the new variant works to provide popular features from the F-150 Lightning range at a more affordable price point.
At the center of this offering is an extended-range battery, which will equip the Flash variant with an estimated range of 320 miles (541 km), sitting between the range figures of the Standard Range and Long Range F-150 Lightning models. Another key technology available to owners of the F-150 Lighting Flash is BlueCruise, Ford’s ADAS that enables hands-free driving and further driver-assist features along select stretches of highway. The variant offers access to version 1.2 of the system, which introduces a Lane Change Assist that allows the driver to change lanes by tapping the turn signal once the path is clear, and In-Lane Repositioning that keeps the vehicle in its lane while shifting its position away from vehicles in adjacent lanes. These features and further BlueCruise functionalities will be improved over time through future OTA software updates.
Inside the F-150 Lightning Flash is another of its enhancements, a standard 15.5-inch LCD vertical touchscreen that hosts the variant’s key infotainment and connectivity features. Accompanying this display is an array of advanced interior features and technologies, including an eight-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with a subwoofer, a wireless charging pad for smartphones, and Ford’s Intelligent Access system for keyless entry. Also provided as standard equipment is a heat pump, which works to optimize the vehicle’s energy consumption, supporting its range and performance capabilities, particularly in colder weather conditions.
The F-150 Lightning Flash is also equipped with an array of technologies designed to support its key trucking capabilities. Enabled by the standard inclusion of Ford’s Tow Technology package, these include a Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Brake Controller, Smart Hitch, On-Board Scales, Smart Trailer Tow Connection, and Trailer Reverse Guidance.
While Ford has not yet revealed specifications on the F-150 Lightning Flash variant’s extended battery or charging capabilities, it confirmed that the electric pick-up will have access to its proprietary BlueOval Charge Network, as well as Tesla’s Supercharger network (which will open to Ford’s EVs in spring 2024).
Orders for the new F-150 Lightning variant are set to open in early 2024 ahead of its launch later in the year. Within the full F-150 Lightning line-up, the Flash variant will sit above the XLT and be available to order at a starting price of $69,995 (€66,573 / £57,549).