Ford F-150 Lightning pre-production begins
Rivian started manufacturing the first R1Ts for customers, Ford begins preproduction of F-150 Lightning. It is finally the proof that electric vans are no longer fantasies, they are very real and they will arrive soon.
The start of preproduction of the Ford F-150 Lightning marks a very important milestone in the development of the van. Technically, this is the last step before production for customers begins. As announced by Ford, it is the legendary Rouge factory in Michigan that sees the first examples come out of its walls.
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Respond to the request
In the same vein and to meet the extremely strong demand from consumers and businesses, Ford is announcing an additional investment of $ 250 million for this assembly line. As a result, some 450 additional jobs are created; in addition, annual production of the Lightning will increase to 80,000 copies earlier than expected. Ford initially hoped to reach this figure in 2024. Ford responds to the strong demand since it currently has some 150,000 reservations for the Lightning.
Ford ahead of GM and Stellantis
It is important to know that these 250 million are in addition to the 750 million initially invested precisely in the Rouge. All of this is part of Ford’s green plan of more than $ 7.7 billion for electrification. Considering the popularity of the Lightning pickup truck, Ford is in an enviable position against GM and Stellantis when it comes to electrifying its fleet of pickup trucks. For the other two American manufacturers, there is indeed an electrification plan, but nothing concrete in the segment before 2024.
The boss is happy
For Bill Ford, Henry’s descendant and big boss of the company, the Lightning is special: “We knew the Lightning was special, but the public interest exceeded our highest expectations and even changed our internal conversation about electrification. Therefore, we are increasing production, we are adding jobs and we are increasing investment. “
In the spring and with discounts
The eagerly awaited Ford F-150 Lightning is scheduled for dealerships in spring 2022. Remember that the Pro version for entrepreneurs and business parks starts at a price of $ 58,000. As a result, he is eligible for the Quebec government rebate of $ 8,000. At this time, it is unclear whether the Government of Canada will change its approach to the limit of just $ 45,000 for pickup trucks, particularly full-size models like the F-150 Lightning.
