Ford F-150 Lightning: How Much Does It Cost To Charge It?

The Ford F-150 Lightning, the electric version of America’s best-selling pickup truck, has finally arrived. With its impressive range, powerful performance, and innovative features, it’s no wonder that many are considering making the switch to an electric vehicle. However, one of the most common questions on everyone’s mind is: how much does it cost to charge the Ford F-150 Lightning?

In this article, we’ll dive into the details of charging the F-150 Lightning, including the cost of charging, charging times, and tips on how to minimize your charging expenses.

Charging Options

The Ford F-150 Lightning comes with a few different charging options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the three main charging options:

1. Level 1 (120V): This is the most basic charging option, which uses a standard household outlet. It’s convenient, but it’s also the slowest way to charge your truck, taking around 24 hours to fully charge the battery.
2. Level 2 (240V): This charging option uses a dedicated 240-volt charging station, which can be installed at your home or found at public charging stations. It’s faster than Level 1, taking around 8-10 hours to fully charge the battery.
3. DC Fast Charging: This is the fastest way to charge your F-150 Lightning, capable of delivering up to 80% of the battery’s capacity in just 45 minutes. However, it’s only available at select public charging stations.

Cost of Charging

So, how much does it cost to charge the Ford F-150 Lightning? The answer depends on several factors, including your location, the cost of electricity in your area, and the charging method you use.

According to the US Department of Energy, the average cost of electricity in the United States is around 13 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The Ford F-150 Lightning has a battery capacity of 98 kWh, which means it would cost around $12.74 to fully charge the battery from empty.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated charging costs for the F-150 Lightning:

 Level 1 (120V): $12.74 (24 hours)
 Level 2 (240V): $12.74 (8-10 hours)
 DC Fast Charging: $25.48 (45 minutes)

Tips to Minimize Charging Expenses

While the cost of charging the F-150 Lightning may seem steep, there are several ways to minimize your expenses:

1. Charge at Home: Charging at home is often the cheapest option, especially if you have a time-of-use (TOU) electricity plan that offers lower rates during off-peak hours.
2. Use Public Charging Stations: Many public charging stations offer free or discounted charging, especially for customers who have a subscription or membership.
3. Optimize Your Charging Schedule: Try to charge your truck during off-peak hours, such as overnight, when electricity rates are lower.
4. Consider a Charging Station with a Lower Cost: Some charging stations, like those offered by Electrify America, offer lower costs per kWh than others.

Conclusion

The Ford F-150 Lightning is an impressive electric vehicle that offers a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge. While the cost of charging may seem daunting at first, there are several ways to minimize your expenses and make owning an electric vehicle more affordable. By understanding the different charging options, costs, and tips for minimizing expenses, you can enjoy the benefits of electric vehicle ownership while keeping your costs in check.