Don’t write off EV trucks too soon. There’s an electric pickup truck on the list of affordable vehicles under $60,000, and you might have guessed it’s the Ford F-150 Lightning. While prices have gone up for 2023, these two trim options still slipped under budget. Unfortunately for many potential buyers, most of the pre-ordered vehicles in Ford production for 2022 and 2023 are reserved. If you want to make some phone calls, all hope is not lost.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric pickup truck under $60,000
When edmunds listed a few affordable vehicles under $60,000, the Ford F-150 Lightning was the only one to make the cut. The good news is that there are even two options to choose from that are under $60,000. Buyers who can get the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro will only have to shell out $51,974.
The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro has an EPA-estimated range of 240 miles for the standard-range battery. It can also tow 5,000 pounds, thanks to its two inboard motors on each axle. Ford says you get 775 lb-ft of instantaneous torque, too.
The 2023 Lightning Pro also gets Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0, which has all the safety features you could need. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Collision Warning and Lane Keeping Assist. It also has automatic high beams and a reverse sensing system that makes towing easy.
Ford’s Lightning XLT is an electric pickup truck with a model under $60,000
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The 2023 F-150 Lightning XLT falls just shy of the budget at $59,474. Buyers can opt for 240 miles of range with the standard range battery or 320 miles with the extended range battery. Unfortunately, the extended range battery would probably be out of the box.
The 2023 Lightning XLT’s standard-range battery can tow 5,000 pounds. If you upgrade to the extended range battery, the towing rating increases up to 7,700 pounds. The Lightning also has a 36 degree camera that allows you to see everything around the truck. Ford added cameras in the grille, tailgate, and under each side mirror.
While the 2023 XLT is higher on the budget, buyers may be eligible for the Federal Tax Credit or other incentives.
The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is less expensive but still not easy to find
While most 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning options are talked about, you may be able to find one sitting down. Some dealerships have vehicles that the owner no longer wants, which means someone else can buy them. Pricing was also slightly less expensive for 2022, with the 2022 Lightning Pro starting at $39,974. The 2022 XLT started at $52,974.
Ford’s electric pickup truck has been incredibly popular to the point where the automaker has been able to keep up with the demand. While most orders for 2023 are announced right now, there could be one or two showing up at your local dealership. Your best bet might be to contact the dealer directly and express interest in a 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro or XLT.
Don’t forget to search online for any rebates or incentives in your area. There may be local, state or federal options available. You can check them at the US Department of Energy. Alternative Fuels Data Center website to search federal and state laws and incentives.