The base “Pro” trim of the F-150 Lightning has increased in price by Ford for the fourth time, going from $55,974 to $59,974 excluding a $1,895 shipping charge. The Lightning was announced by the company in May 2021, and the Pro’s starting price was $39,974, or $20,000 less than it is now. Different models in the lineup, like the Lariat and Platinum, are additionally getting cost knocks.
The Platinum model is now $99,969, an increase of $1,200, and the Lariat trim has increased by $1,500 to $77,869. The cost of shipping is included in those prices.) Only the slightly more affordable XLT trim appears to have remained unchanged; its price increased to $63,474 in December and appears to have remained there. However, even that is a significant increase from the original sticker price of $52,974.
Since introducing the electric pickup, the business has encountered a number of difficulties. One of the most notable incidents was a battery fire that necessitated the company suspending production and shipments for several weeks while it worked on a solution and recalling more than a dozen trucks. That wouldn’t be great at all, but it’s especially difficult given that the company is putting a lot of emphasis on electrification and cutting a lot of employees as part of that push.
Although production of the Lightning has been restarted by the company, this does not necessarily mean that customers will have greater access to the truck. Due to high demand, both the consumer and professional websites of the company state that “the current model year is no longer available for retail order.” Naturally, as well as the increased costs.
The situation for its rivals is not much better. Rivian’s R1T starts at approximately $73,000, and customers who make reservations today should not anticipate delivery until at least fall 2023. Prices may fluctuate in the interim, and there is always a possibility of delays.
In the meantime, Tesla’s Cybertruck’s pricing, availability, and windshield wiper status remain uncertain.