When Ford launched its 2022 F-150 Lightning all-electric pick-up truck, it underestimated the immediate demand and had to curtail sales for both 2022 and 2023 models due to production issues, raise the price several times and now promises expanded production for 2024. This has left many consumers wondering how much a new F-150 Lightning is to purchase.

Because of the high demand, we test-drove the 2022 F-150 Lightning 4X4 SuperCrew with the XLT package – second level of four trims. 2023 versions haven’t changed significantly but 2024 is at least expected to have some minor body changes.

Our week-long conclusion: it is well worth the wait for a tweaked 2024 version if your wallet can handle it and you order early. The price may or may not increase substantially.

Ford says it is on track to produce 150,000 Lightning units this year and as of the second quarter of 2023 is taking on-line reservations for the 2024 version.

Ford’s F-150 series has been America’s best-selling pickup for 46 years and the Lightning adds to the vehicle’s allure. Ford says 70% of reservations have been from buyers who haven’t owned a pick-up before.

Car options

Our XLT trim cost $9,500, added $10,000 for the 1,800-pound extended range battery and $1,420 for the tow package and bedliner toughener spray. (There are three-dozen options available for personalization).

The exterior differs little from the gas-powered F-150 – a purposeful design choice by Ford - and our extended range battery produced 300-plus miles of range with two electric motors giving us seamless acceleration with one-drive mode and quickness to 60 mph moving more than 6,500 pounds.

Pro Power Onboard can provide electricity to a home, a rare feature.

Riding on 20-inch wheels with all-wheel-drive using an independent rear suspension, handling was excellent. The ride was typical of a pick-up, very smooth on paved roads with some minor noise and capable off-road with 8.4 inches of ground clearance. A 360-degree camera is one of several strong driver aid safety features.

The locking removable tailgate anchors the 5.5-foot bed with LED lighting and has a step-in. The towing package can pull 10,000 pounds (we had trailer-sway control) and the front trunk (frunk) has 14 cubic feet for storage with charging plugs and a drain plug.

The crew cab cabin offers excellent space for five and our dark slate gray interior was accented with tasteful chrome touches, a cloth headliner and comfortable, versatile front seats and 60/40-fold up rear bench.

The gear shift can be lowered to create a flat working space, multiple small storage areas exist, and there is a sharp 12-inch infotainment/touchscreen rich with technology.

Visors extend; there is an underbody spare tire.

Watch the video below to learn more about how the Ford F-150 has the capabilities to power your home in an emergency power outage or after a storm that leaves your area without access to power. 

Overall review

LIKES: Mileage without high gas prices, towing muscle, looks, handling, acceleration, workhorse

DISLIKES: Options needed for top electric performance

BOTTOM LINE: Odds on favorite to become world’s most popular electric pick-up truck

Car fact file