The F-150 is the cream of Ford’s pickup truck crop, capable of thriving in just about any situation, and just recently it’s taken to tackling rough terrain as the F-150 Lightning Switchgear. Named not just for its off-road capability, but its performance on asphalt, this demonstration vehicle from Ford Performance boasts 100% electric power, 37-inch tires, exterior carbon bodywork, and so much more.
The F-150 Lightning Switchgear Demonstrator was designed and built in collaboration with RTR vehicles. Inspired by the F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project vehicle from 2016, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear was crafted with powerful off-road upgrades to allow the F-150 Lightning to wander into places it’s never been before.
The F-150 Lightning Switchgear is joining other alumni of the Ford Performance Demonstrator program, including the SuperVan 4.0 and 4.2, the Mustang Mach-E 1400, the Mustang CobraJet 1400 and the F-100 Eluminator. These vehicles are showcases in and of themselves of what an electric vehicle can really do, and they have become the ultimate playground for Ford’s engineers and design teams, allowing them to test the boundaries of what they’re capable of and advance the possibilities for future electric vehicles.
So, what does the F-150 Lightning Switchgear have to offer that sets it apart from the truck’s base model? For starters, it has a significant increase in track width to provide better off-road stability, plus improved ground clearance and suspension travel. The suspension on the F-150 Lightning Switchgear uses FOX 3-inch diameter internal bypass shock absorbers and unique front and rear bumpers, improving the vehicle’s approach and departure angles. The Switchgear also features custom independent double-wishbone suspension at the front, and multilink independent suspension at the rear with coil-over shocks, stabilizer bar and custom control arms.
You’ll find carbon composite front fenders, bed sides and a rear bumper cover on this truck, as well as steel fabricated rock rails and a front skid plate that help to ensure that this vehicle is prepared for the roughest off-road terrain. Limit straps are also added to manage suspension and wheel travel. The truck features NITTO Ridge Grappler 37x12.5R18 tires as well, and a unique chase rack with two spare wheels/tires.
The F-150 Lightning Switchgear will be making its first live debut for the public to see at the legendary off-road racing event King of the Hammers, which will be taking place starting on January 25th in Johnson Valley, California. Interested in keeping up on the Switchgear’s appearances, or in reading the latest Ford news? Make sure you check out our blog here at Haldeman Ford Hamilton to learn more!