Automakers often build the most expensive version of a new vehicle first to drive up margins, but Ford takes the opposite approach. The brand that offers the top-selling truck in the market understands the incredible value of the commercial customer. With this in mind, 20% of all Ford F-150 Lightning models produced are the base Pro version. This is the model that carpenters, plumbers, construction workers, and mechanics look for when they need a truck that’s dependable, affordable, and ready for work. Why is Ford focused on this group of customers? Let’s explore.

Why focus on the base model of the Ford F-150 Lightning EV truck?

This is probably one of the easiest questions to answer. Ford understands the role the F-150 plays in the market and wants to ensure this electric truck is ready for fleet operators and commercial customers. The other 80% of F-150 Lightning models made span the range of trims, which are great for weekend warriors, but workers that depend on their truck should have the electric truck they want to buy.

According to InsideEVs, Ford understands the importance of caring for commercial customers and fleet operators who depend on affordable trucks to help them get the job done. The base price of the Pro model arrives at $40,000 while the top-line model reaches up to $90,000. With a focus on the professional that relies on their truck to get things done, Darren Palmer, Ford’s Vice President of Electric Vehicle Programs tells us:

“Fleets we look after; they are the core of our business. Even though we could sell more vehicles, more expensive, it’s not about the short-term profit. We launched them right at the beginning, and we’re giving them 20 percent all through.”

Darren Palmer to Automotive News

What does the Pro trim offer for the F-150 EV truck?

The Pro model of the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is a truck that brings the standard-range battery and capability desired. This version is the most affordable and made to deliver the right package as a standard work truck. The Pro comes with vinyl upholstery and manual front seats, which allows this to be a no-frills truck for you to drive.

This truck can carry up to 2,000 pounds of payload and tow up to 7,700 pounds using the standard-range battery. This is more than enough capability to get the job done every day for most workers. The Max Trailer Tow package is necessary for owners to enjoy this tow rating.

Check out the features list of the F-150 Lightning

According to Kelley Blue Book, the Pro trim of this EV truck has the qualities listed, and it brings:

• A powered hood
• Two 120-volt outlets in the cabin
• Four 120-volt outlets in the frunk
• Two USB ports in the frunk
• 2.4-kW Pro Power Onboard package (optional upgrade to a 9.6-kW version if needed)
• Ford Co-Pilot 360 2.0 system
• 12-inch touchscreen
• Enhanced voice recognition
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices
• Navigation
• Wireless updates for the electronics

Is there enough driving range in this EV truck?

The standard layout uses two 3-phase fixed-magnet AC electric motors with the standard-battery range. This delivers 426 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque. The driving range is 230 miles on a full charge. Recharging overnight is easy using a 240-volt charger. If you need more driving range while out during the day, you can charge from 15 o 80 percent capacity at a DC fast-charging station in less than 45 minutes.

Should you buy the Ford F-150 Lightning Pro?

If you need a dependable truck to help you get work done every day, the Ford F-150 has been the right truck for decades. Ford puts the focus squarely where it belongs, on the workers that need the Lightning to get things done. The GMC Hummer EV First Edition is priced at $112,595, and the Rivian R1T comes to you at $67,500, making the Ford F-150 Lightning Pro the most affordable EV truck offered.