Lightning’s 241-hp powertrain delivers 790 lb.-ft. of torque and is available for all F-59 variants ranging from 16,000 to 22,000-pound GVWR. The Colorado-based company has already been taking orders for early production units and expects to make its first deliveries this summer.
Lighting’s latest powertrain for the F-59 marks the fifth powertrain in their all-electric line-up and comes by way of their partnership with Ford through the automaker’s eQVM (Advanced Fuel Qualified Vehicle Modifiers) program.
“We now offer the broadest range of electric powertrain products in the industry, with high-quality zero-emission powertrains available for commercial and government fleets on Class 3 through 7 Ford, GM, and city bus platforms that are readily available and supported by a large number of service partners, upfitters, and accessory lines,” says Tim Reeser, CEO, Lightning Systems.
The Lightning F-59 offers two range variants – either 80 or 110 miles – with a modular, state-of-the-art, thermally-managed lithium ion battery systems with 96 or 128 kWh respectively. The battery system will accommodate a full charge in under two hours for 80 miles of range and a little over two hours for the 110-mile range version with DC Fast Charging. Range is based on half payload capacity.
The powertrain supports full regenerative braking, with industry-leading efficiency that adds range while reducing wear and tear on the brakes, the company says.
The vehicle comes with Lightning Analytics, a leading electric powertrain telematics-analytics system that provides detailed reporting on key vehicle efficiency and operating metrics critical to fleet optimization. The powertrain comes with a five-year, 60,000-mile warranty and maintenance is performed by trained local dealers. Vehicle vouchers and incentives are available in many states.
“Our top priority is to offer fleets high-quality, elegantly engineered zero emission solutions on platforms that they already use extensively,” Reeser says. “Our customers have been asking for this platform because the Ford F-59 chassis is economical, high quality, and widely used by our customers in delivery truck and food truck applications.”
QVM is Ford’s quality recognition given to aftermarket adaptive equipment installers that meet manufacturing guidelines and best practices. Ford’s thorough QVM qualification process includes on-site assessments at each location to verify the operation meets manufacturing, assembly, workmanship, customer service, and quality requirements, and that it has processes in place to produce vehicles that meet federal regulations.
Ford’s vehicle warranty covers the base chassis for vehicles with the Lightning drivetrain. Ford QVM participants perform installations and service. Last year, Lightning Systems says it began deliveries of the Lightning Electric upfit for the heavy-duty Ford Transit, which is also covered by Ford’s eQVM program.
