The figure on stage was highly anticipated. It attracted the attention of dozens of press photographers and triggered feverish media reports. If only the president of the United States would get out of the way, so we could see it better…
F-150 Lightning Takes the Stage with Biden
The Ford F-150 Lightning appeared on stage behind some guy at Ford’s electric vehicle plant in Dearborn, Michigan, today. The Lighting is an all-electric version of the best-selling vehicle in America, the Ford F-150 pickup. Ford will formally unveil the Lightning to the press tomorrow night. We’ll bring performance and mechanical details then.
For now, we can report that the Lightning appears to have lower ground clearance than the gasoline-powered F-150 parked next to it on stage. The lower stance would reduce wind resistance, which is critical in getting more range out of an electric vehicle.
The appearance gave the press a good look at the truck’s fascia, which had been hinted at in heavily shadowed teaser photos. It features an inverted U of LED lights connecting the headlights. Its rectangular false grille appears wider than that of the internal combustion-driven version.
Biden Spoke on Auto Industry’s Electric Future
President Biden (the guy in the way) spoke on the future of the auto industry, and his administration’s infrastructure plan. The plan would add 500,000 new electric vehicle charging stations nationwide.
The proposal would also greatly expand a tax credit program meant to help Americans purchase new electric cars. The plan is not guaranteed passage in Congress and could be changed significantly if it does pass.
President Got A Test Drive Before We Did
Biden got the chance to drive the Lightning on a closed test track. His review? “Man, you’re going to like it.” The president added, “It feels great. I’ll tell you what, these electric vehicles, now I don’t know if anyone has a stopwatch, but these vehicles can go from 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds,” the president said.
It was not clear at press time whether the president’s words match any official estimate from Ford.
Ford North America Product Communications Manager Mike Levine posted a tweet including a 10-second video of Biden behind the wheel, appearing to test that acceleration claim.
When it comes, Ford’s official 0-60 mph test will likely not include the added weight of the Secret Service agent in the passenger seat.
