It’s official: Ford has revealed that the electric F-150 Lightning and the F-150 Hybrid will be equipped to offer vehicles-to-vehicle charging, and can add up to 20 miles (32 kilometres) of range each hour to the Mustang Mach-E SUV.
In the announcement, Ford detailed their “PowerBoost” technology, which allows the electrified pickups to act as mobile EV chargers. To access this feature, drivers will have to opt-in to the Pro Power Onboard add-on.
While the PowerBoost feature won’t offer quick charging, it will presumably come in handy during emergencies. Ford notes that the trucks’ “240-volt AC outlets will be able to add 20 miles of range each hour to a Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV and 13 miles per hour to a Lightning.” The automaker also reveals that EVs from other manufacturers will be able to top up as well.
Ford F-150 Lightning charging a Ford Mustang Mach-E
Notably, this feature can also come in handy at jobsites or campsites. The automaker notes that the most powerful 9.6-kilowatt system available for the Lightning can power a tailgate party with a projector, PA system, portable hot tub, lights, portable AC, refrigerator, and two blenders.
Finally, with Ford’s Intelligent Backup Power feature (which is also an optional add-on), drivers can use their F-150 Lightning or Hybrid as a backup generator for their home during emergencies. In the future, Ford envisions this feature having the potential to help manage the load on the electrical grid during peak times.
The F-150 Lightning, which has accumulated almost 200,000 reservations, is due to start shipping to customers in spring of 2022.
