Ford Motor Company has confirmed the next generation of the F-150 Lightning, revealing an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) architecture designed to expand the model’s capability while retaining a fully electric driving experience.
According to Ford, the next-generation F-150 Lightning EREV combines electric propulsion with a high-power onboard generator to deliver an estimated range of more than 700 miles, particularly targeting use cases such as long-distance and heavy-duty towing. Unlike a traditional hybrid, the vehicle remains driven 100 per cent by electric motors.
Commenting on the announcement, Doug Field, Ford’s chief EV, digital and design officer, said the new model builds directly on the Lightning’s role in reshaping expectations for electric pickups.
“The F-150 Lightning is a groundbreaking product that demonstrated an EV pickup can still be a great F-Series,” said Field. “Our next-generation F-150 Lightning EREV will be every bit as revolutionary. It delivers everything Lightning customers love — near instantaneous torque and pure electric driving. But with a high-power generator enabling an estimated range of 700+ miles, it tows like a locomotive. Heavy-duty towing and cross-country travel will be as effortless as the daily commute.”
Ford noted that, as America’s best-selling electric pickup, the F-150 Lightning has been a key contributor to its EV sales growth in the United States. The next-generation model is positioned as a further expansion of the Lightning’s capability, reinforcing the broader F-Series legacy of innovation while maintaining the electric benefits customers expect.
The company also confirmed that production of the current F-150 Lightning will conclude later this year. The next-generation F-150 Lightning EREV will be assembled at Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, with further details on specifications and launch timing to be shared at a later date.
AUSEV confirms pathway for Australian customers
Australian distributor AUSEV has welcomed Ford’s global announcement, confirming it plans to continue supporting local customers as the model transitions to its next generation.
AUSEV said it is targeting a 2027 introduction of the F-150 Lightning EREV in Australia, with the generator-assisted configuration expected to deliver approximately 1,125 kilometres of range. The company highlighted that the EREV retains the core advantages of a full EV platform, including lower energy and maintenance costs and longer operational life compared with internal combustion alternatives.
Importantly for fleet decision-makers, AUSEV also confirmed continuity of supply in the interim. The company said it will continue to offer the existing F-150 Lightning battery-electric models locally, with strong availability of both the 98 kWh and 131 kWh configurations until EREV production begins.
AUSEV added that fleets — particularly those operating in mining or remote environments — can still achieve zero tailpipe emissions by choosing not to engage the range-extending generator, while gaining additional flexibility when operating beyond current charging constraints.
Implications for fleets
For Fleet Managers and Procurement Managers, the announcements from Ford and AUSEV provide clearer visibility on the future direction of large electric utes. The EREV approach reflects a practical response to real-world operating demands such as towing, payload and remote travel, while maintaining electric drive, exportable power capability and EV-specific cost benefits.
With confirmation of local supply pathways and continued BEV availability, Australian fleets now have greater certainty as they assess both near-term procurement and longer-term electrification strategies.
