While it may not be the high-performance variant that some enthusiasts were eagerly anticipating, the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Flash offers a compelling proposition. Ford introduces this new trim level, described as a “greatest hits” compilation of features that align with what customers have coveted most.
Ford’s Continued Commitment to Lightning Production
Ford’s announcement of the Lightning Flash comes as the automaker intensifies its efforts to ramp up production of the Lightning electric truck. Demand for the Lightning remains strong, with a significant number of backorders still in the queue.
Lightning Flash’s Key Features
Positioned between the Lariat and XLT trims, the Lightning Flash combines select features available in both trims, making it the “sweet spot” in the Lightning range, as Ford officials put it. Notable features include:
The 1.2 version of Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assistance system.
An impressive 320 miles of EPA-rated range from its “extended range” battery.
A standard 15.5-inch touchscreen, surpassing the 12-inch unit found in the XLT.
Owners have the option to choose a monthly or annual BlueCruise subscription or enjoy a complimentary 90-day trial period.
Accessible Pricing and Tax Credit
Ford aims to make the Lightning Flash accessible to a broader audience by pricing it at $69,995, a figure that already includes the $7,500 EV tax credit. Notably, the previous Lariat model now starts at $77,495 for the extended-range variant, suggesting an upmarket shift.
Pricing Breakdown for 2024
Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for early 2024:
F-150 Lightning Pro with standard range: Starts at $49,995
F-150 Lightning XLT with standard range: Starts at $57,495
F-150 Lightning Flash with extended range: Starts at $69,995
F-150 Lightning Lariat with extended range: Starts at $77,495
F-150 Lightning Platinum with extended range: Starts at $89,995
Limited-edition F-150 Lightning Platinum Black with extended range: Starts at $97,995
A Glimpse into Efficiency
Interestingly, the Lightning Flash comes standard with a heat pump system, a feature not previously available in the F-150 Lightning lineup. Heat pump systems are known for their efficiency compared to conventional resistive heating systems, potentially enabling the vehicle to travel farther on a single charge due to reduced energy consumption for cabin heating.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of a heat pump system in the Lightning Flash raises questions about its potential availability in other F-150 Lightning variants in 2024. We’ve reached out to Ford for clarification and will provide further details in a subsequent article.
Furthermore, we’ve inquired about the status of the standard range (240-mile) Lariat model for 2024 and will provide an update when we receive official confirmation. Orders for the Lightning Flash are set to open in early 2024, adding another enticing option to the Lightning lineup.