Ford F-150 Lightning: Supercharged for Pikes Peak

Ford F-150 Lightning: Ford preps high-performance F-150 Lightning for Pikes Peak. The teaser hints at an extreme makeover & possible 1400-HP powertrain. Unveiling & record attempt expected in June.

• Ford F-150 Lightning: Ford is developing a heavily modified electric F-150 Lightning to compete in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
• The teaser image hints at a low-slung, wide vehicle with a large rear wing, suggesting significant aerodynamic modifications.
• Speculation points towards a custom powertrain potentially exceeding the standard F-150 Lightning’s 580 horsepower.
• The project could be a glimpse into the future of high-performance electric trucks, showcasing Ford’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the EV segment.

Ford’s Bold Move

Ford to Take on Pikes Peak with a High-Performance F-150 Lightning Demonstrator

Ford has sent shockwaves through the racing world by teasing a heavily modified F-150 Lightning specifically designed for the gruelling Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. This electric demonstrator promises to be a radical departure from the standard F-150 Lightning available at dealerships.

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A Glimpse into the Unknown

The only information Ford has officially revealed is a single teaser image showcasing the front end of the vehicle shrouded in darkness. The image hints at a low and wide stance, hinting at aggressive performance aspirations. A massive rear wing, reminiscent of the record-breaking Ford SuperVan, further fuels speculation about this electric beast’s capabilities.

Ford F-150 Lightning Pikes Peak Event Details

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F-150 Lightning Possible Inspirations and Modifications

While details are scarce, experts are drawing comparisons to the F-150 Lightning Switchgear, a one-off prototype unveiled earlier this year. The Switchgear showcased Ford’s exploration of pushing the performance boundaries of the electric truck, both on and off-road.

While the Switchgear existed in both on-road and off-road configurations, it’s unclear if this is the basis for the Pikes Peak demonstrator. However, the teaser image does bear some resemblance to the Switchgear’s rendered street version, particularly the prominent wing and potential side strakes.

Taking Cues from the SuperVan

Ford’s success with the electric SuperVan 4.2, which set a record in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb last year, further fuels speculation. The demonstrator might borrow elements from the SuperVan, such as advanced aerodynamics and potentially even some drivetrain components.

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F-150 Lightning Performance Expectations and Speculations

The standard F-150 Lightning boasts a respectable 580 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque. However, these figures are unlikely to be sufficient for the unforgiving Pikes Peak climb.

Experts suggest that Ford might explore various avenues to boost performance:

• Borrowing the drivetrain from the Mustang Mach-E 1400: This electric monster boasts a staggering 1,400 horsepower, thanks to seven electric motors.
• Implementing weight reduction: Optimizing the battery pack or utilizing lightweight materials could significantly reduce the hefty weight of the F-150 Lightning, improving agility and speed.
• Advanced aerodynamics: Similar to the SuperVan, the Pikes Peak demonstrator will likely receive significant aerodynamic upgrades, including a prominent rear wing and potentially a front splitter for improved downforce.

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Looking Ahead for F-150 Lightning

While details remain under wraps, Ford is expected to reveal more information about the Pikes Peak F-150 Lightning demonstrator in the coming months. The official unveiling is anticipated to occur closer to June, with qualifying rounds for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb scheduled for June 18-20 and the main event taking place on June 23.

This unique project signifies Ford’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and performance. The Pikes Peak F-150 Lightning demonstrator serves as a testbed for innovation, potentially paving the way for future high-performance electric trucks that redefine expectations.

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