The Ford F-150 Lightning is a powerful all-electric pickup truck that provides all the strength and functionality you expect from Ford in a highly efficient package. The Lightning can do it all — it can run on, store, and deliver an electric charge. This means that your F-150 Lightning can double as a charging source for other EVs or a backup power source for your home in an outage.

This powerful pickup is always prepared. Let’s learn more about what the Ford F-150 Lightning offers.

Essential Charging Information for Ford Lightning Owners

The standard range battery in the F-150 Lightning charges from 15% to 80% in 32 minutes with direct current (DC) fast charging and will charge from 15% to 80% in about 10 hours with a Level 2 alternating current (AC) charging station. The F-150’s extended range battery charges from 15% to 80% in 38 minutes with a DC fast charger or in about 13 hours with Level 2 AC charging. These differences in charging speed mean you need to think ahead about when and how you charge your vehicle.

Ideally, you’ll charge your F-150 Lightning to 90% for daily driving. This helps prolong the life of your battery. If you’re planning a longer trip, charge the battery to 100%. Ford Roadside Assistance has your back if you run out of charge on the road. This service will tow your vehicle to the charging point of your choice within 50 miles of your current location, including public charging stations, EV-certified dealers, or your home.

Comprehensive Guide to Ford Lightning Charging Options

You can charge your Lightning in one of three ways at home. The Ford mobile power cord provides Level 1 charging at 12 amps or Level 2 charging at 30 amps. A Ford Connect Charge Station means you can use Level 2 charging of up to 48 amps. The most efficient option is the Ford Charge Station Pro with Ford bidirectional charging; it offers Level 2 charging of up to 80 amps and can also supply backup power for your home.

You can use the Ford mobile power cord power cord with any outlet, but a standard 120V outlet will only charge your vehicle at about 2 miles of range per charging hour. You can purchase either of the Ford charge stations on the Ford Chargers website.

Your Ford F-150 Lightning can act as a charging station for other electric vehicles (EVs). The Lightning will support Level 1 charging of another EV with the onboard 120-volt outlet. F-150 Lightning vehicles with 9.6 kW Pro Power Onboard support Level 2 charging of other EVs as long as you have a NEMA L14-30P to 14-50R adapter.

The Ford mobile power cord and the Ford Connect Charge station use a J1772 connector and can charge any compatible vehicle. The Ford Power Station Pro has a CCS1 connector and will charge any EV with CCS1 charge ports.

Optimizing Home Charging for Your Ford Lightning

You’re eligible for all the perks associated with the Ford Power Promise when you purchase a new Ford F-150 Lightning. This program typically provides drivers with a Ford Charge Station Pro, but the exact charger model may change over time. Ford’s contractor, Qmerit Electrification LLC, will identify a licensed electrician in your area who can provide complimentary standard installation. You should schedule installation for your charger ahead of your vehicle pickup so you’re ready to charge your Lightning as soon as you bring it home.

If you’re not eligible for the Ford Power Promise, Ford recommends contacting Qmerit for a quote to install a Ford Connected Charger Station or Ford Charge Station Pro. You can work with your own electrician for this project, but you’ll need to tell them which system you’ve selected to get an accurate quote. If you’re interested in installing Ford home backup power with your Ford Charge Station Pro, you’ll need a home integration system. This costs $3,895 from Sunrun.

Remember that your charger can’t provide power faster than the outlet’s amperage allows, so consult a licensed electrician to optimize your setup. If you have decentralized power and choose your own electricity provider in or around Dallas, look for a plan that offers cheaper electricity in the evening. Many utility providers now offer electricity plans that deliver cheap or even free power at night, reducing the cost to charge your Lightning.

Leveraging Ford’s Intelligent Backup Power System

If you choose to install the Ford Charge Station Pro and home integration system, your F-150 Lightning can provide a backup power source for your home. If the power goes out, your Lightning will reverse the electricity’s flow and power your home as long as it’s connected to the 80 amp Ford Charge Station Pro. A Ford F-150 Lightning with an extended range battery can power your home for up to three days with ordinary power use, but if you ration your power use, it can keep your home running for up to 10 days.

Find Your Next EV at Planet Ford Dallas

The Ford F-150 Lightning is a must-see if you’re interested in experiencing the power and versatility of an all-electric truck. Come explore our inventory at Planet Ford Dallas to see the Lightning for yourself. Our team members are happy to explain the charging process, times, and specs of any EV or hybrid Ford you’re considering. Stop by today and start your journey toward cleaner, more efficient transportation.