Ford execs reportedly discuss ending the F-150 Lightning

Ford executives are reportedly contemplating the discontinuation of the F-150 Lightning, the company’s flagship electric pickup truck. This discussion arises following Ford’s recent decision to pause production of the Lightning, as they shift focus towards hybrid and gasoline versions of their best-selling pickups. The decision comes amid production challenges exacerbated by a fire at Novelis’ aluminum manufacturing facility in Oswego, New York, earlier this year. Since its launch in 2021, the F-150 Lightning was introduced with an anticipated base price of $40,000; however, many customers found the final price significantly higher. Despite being one of the leading electric trucks in the U.S. market, Ford has encountered difficulties selling more than a few thousand units each quarter. This struggle has been compounded by recent policy changes, including the end of the federal EV tax credit by congressional Republicans and rollbacks on emissions regulations during the Trump administration, which have made the electric vehicle market even more challenging.