Ford is reportedly considering discontinuing the electric version of its popular F-150 pickup truck, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. While no final decision has been made, industry insiders suggest the move could happen as part of a broader strategic shift toward electric vehicle production. This potential outcome raises questions about the viability of electric pickup trucks and the future of Ford’s EV ambitions.
Lightning’s Current Standing
Despite the possibility of its demise, the F-150 Lightning currently holds the title of the best-selling electric pickup truck in the U.S. In the third quarter of 2025, Ford sold 10,005 Lightning trucks, outperforming rivals like the Tesla Cybertruck (5,385), GMC Hummer EV (5,246), Chevrolet Silverado EV (3,940), GMC Sierra EV (3,374), and Rivian R1T (2,378). Year-to-date sales through September 2025 reached 23,024 units. However, these figures are significantly smaller compared to the conventional F-150, which sold 66,387 units in October 2025 alone. This disparity highlights the challenge of electric vehicles gaining widespread adoption in the lucrative truck market.
The Lightning’s Unique Appeal
The F-150 Lightning was launched in 2022, quickly establishing itself as a standout in a relatively new segment. Unlike some electric trucks that represent a substantial departure from traditional designs, the Lightning maintains the familiar aesthetics and functionality of a standard F-150. It offers a straightforward transition for drivers accustomed to gas-powered trucks, featuring similar sizes of battery packs – one rated for 230 miles, and a larger one capable of 320 miles – and a wide range of trim levels, including the Pro, XLT, Flash, Lariat, and Platinum.
The vehicle’s key selling point is its conventional truck experience with the added benefit of electric power, making it an accessible entry point into the EV market for many truck owners. The only notable differences are the unique grille and lighting design, the presence of a charge port, and a usable storage space under the hood where the engine would normally reside.
Specialized Production and Financial Considerations
The F-150 Lightning’s production is centered in a dedicated Electric Vehicle Center within Ford’s historic River Rouge complex. Furthermore, electric motors are sourced from the Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center in Sterling Heights, MI, and batteries from the Rawsonville Components plant in Ypsilanti, MI. This specialized manufacturing setup raises a significant question: is it economically sustainable to maintain such a dedicated infrastructure for a vehicle selling approximately 32,000 units annually?
What This Means for the Electric Truck Market
If Ford, the top producer of electric trucks in the U.S., struggles to justify continued production, it suggests a broader challenge for the entire electric truck sector. While many consumers don’t utilize all of a truck’s traditional capabilities—like heavy towing—the fact that an industry leader is contemplating halting production signals potential difficulties in establishing sustainable demand. Many manufacturers may be driven to continue selling electric trucks simply because of the substantial investment already made, even if profitability remains elusive.
The potential discontinuation of the F-150 Lightning raises concerns about the long-term viability of electric pickup trucks and highlights the complexities of transitioning to an all-electric vehicle landscape. Ford’s decision will likely have ripple effects across the automotive industry and could reshape the future of truck manufacturing
