Apr 6, 2023

With its rugged nature and eco-conscious efficiency, the fully electric 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning embodies the future of Ford. As a tried-and-true trailblazer, the new Ford Lightning continues to exceed the standards for all other electric vehicles (EVs). Not many vehicles can combine the seamless performance of an all-electric drivetrain and the rugged nature of a pickup. At Brewster Ford in Brewster, New York, our team of experts will provide you with all the information you need about the Ford Lightning to help you determine if this vehicle suits your lifestyle.

2023 Ford Lightning side panel logo

How Fast Can the Ford F-150 Lightning Charge?

Charging time has become a crucial part of EVs, and depending on the kind of charger you’re using and the type of vehicle you have, this time can greatly vary. As with other EVs, the 2023 Ford Lightning’s charge speed greatly depends on how and where you charge it. On average, however, charging the electric truck takes about 10 hours.

Ford’s standard package for the F-150 Lightning comes with a 32-amp mobile charger, which allows you to connect to a standard 120-volt outlet. Because of its low power output, you can expect the standard truck to go from 15% to 100% in around 76 to 80 hours. If you have the extended-range Ford Lightning, you can expect the vehicle to go from 15% to 100% in around 100 to 107 hours.

To get more efficient charging times, consider installing a better charger, such as the Ford Charge Station Pro. This charger comes free with the extended-range version of the Ford Lightning. The only reason not to invest in this kind of charger would be if it were impractical for your situation, such as if you don’t drive the vehicle every day or if you live in an apartment and you aren’t allowed to install one.

Otherwise, consider purchasing one of the better-charging units that Ford offers to make charging your vehicle a much easier and quicker task. Although it’s possible to charge and drive the Lightning using only a 120-volt outlet, it can take a lot of time on the charger and not a lot of time on the road.

How Many Miles Does a Charge Last on the 2023 Ford Lightning?

The Ford Lightning has two battery options that feed its motors: one is a standard-range battery, and the other is an extended-range battery. The standard-range battery has 98 kWh of usable capacity, which is good for 230 miles of range, while the extended-range battery has a massive 131 kWh of usable capacity. With this type of battery, the F-150 Lightning offers 320 miles of range, or 300 if you opt for the top-trim Platinum.

How Long Does It Take To Charge the Ford Lightning With a DC Fast Charger

The quickest way to fully charge EVs is by using a DC fast charger. With the Ford 150 Lightning, you can go from 15% to around 80% in less than an hour. With the Ford Lightning standard edition, the charging time would take around 45 minutes, while the extended-range version of the EV would only take about 40 minutes to go from 15% to about 80%.

Unfortunately, you can’t install a Level 3 DC charger at your home, as it uses a 440-volt DC power supply, which makes it dangerous in most residential houses. However, you can find one of these chargers at various EV charging stations.

How To Find Charging Stations When on the Road?

A few years ago, finding an EV charging station was no easy feat. Fortunately, today, it’s easier than ever to find charging stations near you. You can use different websites or mobile apps, such as FordPass or Google Maps, to quickly find a charging station in your area.

If you’re a member of an EV charging network, you likely already have an application on your smartphone to find compatible charging stations near you. The US Department of Energy also has a locator system (available on their website) you can use to find charging stations in your area. The system is also helpful if you have a car using biodiesel or other alternative fuels.

Why Do EVs Charge More Slowly After 80%?

An EV that charges more slowly after 80% is normal. It does this because the EV’s charger is restricting the battery’s charging speed to protect it from overheating. An EV’s battery will charge at a higher speed when it’s almost empty, as the charger is providing the complete current when the battery’s percentage is lower.

When it reaches around 80%, however, the current that the battery takes will decrease. This is because the heat your battery generates at this stage increases, unlike at the onset of charging. At this point, the battery’s ions need stabilization. Hence, the charger goes back to slow charging for the remaining 20%. This allows your battery to perform at the optimal level and preserves its health and lifespan.

Ford recommends not keeping your EV charged at 100%, as it can reduce your battery’s lifespan. With lithium-ion batteries, you can keep them charged at around 60% to 80% of their maximum charge; this is where the ions and electrons are usually balanced, which can extend your battery’s lifetime usage. Ford also recommends not going into deep discharge, which means you should try to stay above 20%. Going below this level can damage your battery if done repeatedly.

Get Behind the Wheel of the All-New Ford F-150 Lightning at Brewster Ford

If you’re ready to take a closer look at the F-150 Lightning, reach out to us today. At Brewster Ford, we’ll provide you with all the information you need about the Ford Lightning’s suggested retail price, trim levels, and new design features for the model of your choice. What are you waiting for? Be among the first to own the all-new Ford Lightning. Contact us, call us at (845)205-7019 today or visit our dealership at 1024 Route 22 in Brewster, New York.

Photo Credit: Image by Cyrus Crossan is licensed with Unsplash License