Ford is exploring the off-road potential of electric trucks with the F-150 Lightning Switchgear concept, a collaboration between Ford Performance and RTR. Drawing inspiration from the F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver, the concept features a distinctive exterior design with custom carbon composite bodywork, including a widebody kit with bulging fenders and prominent vents.
Beyond the visual enhancements, the concept incorporates functional upgrades such as front and rear bumpers to enhance approach and departure angles, a front skid plate, steel rock rails, and a substantial spoiler. Notable additions include 18-inch wheels paired with 37-inch Nitto Ridge Grappler tires, as well as a bed-mounted chase rack with two spare tires.
Inside the cabin, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear concept boasts several improvements, including five Recaro Sportster ORV seats with six-point harnesses. The interior also features a unique dashboard, a rear bar, and what seems to be a manual parking brake with a distinctive design.
Underneath the surface, the truck sports a revised suspension with custom components at the front and rear. Noteworthy features include 3-inch Fox internal bypass shocks and a significantly increased track width of 80 inches (2,032 mm).
With its off-road focus, the concept promises impressive capability, offering 13.5 inches (343 mm) of clearance at the front and 11 inches (279 mm) at the back, along with up to 13 inches (330 mm) of wheel travel.
For those preferring a street-oriented configuration, Ford provides an alternative with an aerodynamic front bumper, a tonneau cover, and 20-inch wheels wrapped in Nitto NT420V tires. This version features a revised suspension with a notably lower ride height.
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Despite its rugged appearance, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear retains a stock powertrain. It is equipped with a 131 kWh battery pack powering a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering 580 hp (433 kW / 588 PS) and 775 lb-ft (1,050 Nm) of torque. While specific acceleration figures for the concept are undisclosed, the regular F-150 Lightning with the extended-range battery achieves a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of less than four seconds.
Mark Rushbrook, Ford Performance’s Global Director of Motorsports, highlighted the concept’s role in showcasing the potential of electric vehicles and providing a platform for advancing learnings for future electric models. The F-150 Lightning Switchgear concept is set to make its public debut at the King of the Hammers race on January 25.
