Lightning Systems adds F-59 to fleet of electric vehicles

LOVELAND — Lightning Hybrids Inc., a global developer of zero-emission drivetrains for commercial fleets, has developed a battery-electric powertrain option for the Ford F-59 Model to support customers with delivery and food-truck applications.

The new Lightning Electric powertrain for the Ford F-59 chassis is available for all F-59 variants, which range from 16,000- to 22,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating configurations. Lightning has already received orders for early production units, and deliveries will begin this summer.

The powertrain is the fifth powertrain now available in the Lightning product line. “We now offer the broadest range of electric powertrain products in the industry, with high-quality zero-emission powertrains available for commercial and government fleets on Class 3 through 7 Ford, GM, and city bus platforms that are readily available and supported by a large number of service partners, upfitters, and accessory lines,” Tim Reeser, CEO of Lightning Systems, said in a written statement.

“Our top priority is to offer fleets high-quality, elegantly engineered zero-emission solutions on platforms that they already use extensively,” Reeser said. “Our customers have been asking for this platform because the Ford F-59 chassis is economical, high quality, and widely used by our customers in delivery truck and food truck applications.”

The new Lightning Electric Ford F-59 model will offer peak power of 180 kW (241 HP). Torque is rated at 1071 Nm, (790 lb-ft). There is a five-year, 60,000-mile warranty on the powertrain with maintenance performed by trained local dealers. Vehicle vouchers and incentives are available in many states.

The Lightning F-59 offers two range variants — either 80 or 110 miles — with a modular, state-of-the-art, thermally-managed lithium ion battery system. The battery system will accommodate a full charge in under two hours for 80 miles of range and a little more than two hours for the 110-mile range version with DC Fast Charging. The powertrain supports full regenerative braking that adds range while reducing wear and tear on the friction brakes. The vehicle comes with Lightning Analytics, the leading electric powertrain telematics-analytics system that provides detailed reporting on key vehicle efficiency and operating metrics critical to fleet optimization, the company said.  

Existing vehicles can be repowered to become zero-emission vans and trucks with the Lightning powertrain.

Ford’s vehicle warranty covers the base chassis for vehicles with the Lightning drivetrain.

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