Is Ford Lightning AWD or 4WD?
The Ford F-150 Lightning uses dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) and does not offer a traditional four-wheel-drive (4WD) system.
How the Lightning’s drivetrain works
The Lightning is powered by two electric motors—one at the front and one at the rear—that together provide all-wheel traction. Ford markets this setup as Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive, with computer-controlled torque delivery and torque-vectoring to improve grip in rain, snow, and other slippery conditions. There is no conventional transfer case or low-range gear associated with a true 4WD system.
Key distinctions between AWD and 4WD in practice:
- AWD typically powers both axles automatically with computer-controlled torque distribution; there is no user-selectable low-range gear.
- 4WD (traditional) usually uses a transfer case with selectable high and low ranges for off-road or challenging terrain; some setups require manual engagement.
- The Lightning’s dual-motor system provides consistent all-wheel traction and stability control, without a low-range gearing option.
In short, the Lightning is designed for on-road traction and weather performance rather than the heavy off-road crawl often associated with traditional 4x4 systems.
Lightning drivetrain specifics
Ford’s official specs describe the vehicle as having Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive. The two electric motors operate independently to drive the front and rear axles, enabling torque vectoring and improved handling. There is no mechanical 4WD transfer case or low-range gearing in this setup.
Key features of the Lightning’s drivetrain include:
- Dual electric motors powering front and rear axles (all-wheel drive).
- Torque vectoring for enhanced grip and stability on varying surfaces.
- Software-driven traction management integrated with drive modes and stability controls.
- No traditional transfer case or low-range gear; the system is designed for everyday driving, weather, and light to moderate off-road use, not rock crawling.
These features collectively define the Lightning’s drivetrain as AWD rather than a conventional 4WD system.
Bottom line
Ford’s F-150 Lightning is an all-wheel-drive vehicle, not a traditional four-wheel-drive model. Its dual-motor AWD system is designed to optimize traction and performance across normal road conditions, wet and snowy roads, and light off-road scenarios, without a low-range transfer case.
Summary
In short: The Ford Lightning is AWD. It uses dual electric motors to power both axles with torque vectoring, and it does not offer a 4WD transfer-case or low-range gearing. This makes it well-suited for everyday driving and all-weather traction, while traditional 4WD configurations remain outside its design.
Why is the F-150 Lightning not selling?
The Ford F-150 Lightning is not selling well due to a combination of high prices, slower-than-expected demand, and competition. Other factors contributing to the slowdown include the high cost of EV batteries, rising interest rates, and a lack of public education on EVs. Ford has also reduced production and offered dealer incentives to move slow-selling inventory.
This video discusses the reasons why F-150 Lightning sales are struggling: 56sTCcustomsYouTube · Jul 17, 2023
Reasons for slow sales
- High prices: The starting price was initially low, but higher-trim models and the overall cost of EVs have become a barrier for many buyers.
- Lack of demand: Slower-than-expected demand led Ford to cut production. Initial reservations did not translate into immediate sales.
- Rising interest rates: Higher interest rates make loans for expensive vehicles, like the F-150 Lightning, less affordable.
- Stronger competition: New electric and hybrid trucks from Ram and Volkswagen will enter the market, increasing competition for the Lightning.
- Charging infrastructure: Some drivers have concerns about the availability of fast-charging stations, especially for long-distance travel.
- Range anxiety: For some users, the truck's real-world range drops significantly when hauling or towing, leading to range anxiety.
- Dealer reluctance: Some dealerships are reportedly hesitant to sell EVs due to a lack of knowledge about the technology.
- Recall and quality issues: The F-150 Lightning has experienced several recalls, including a significant steering issue that can cause a loss of control.
- Production issues: Ford has had to halt production to address inventory issues and has had to reallocate workers from the Lightning plant to other facilities.
- Market factors: A general downturn in the overall EV market, driven partly by competitors cutting prices, has also impacted sales.
Is the electric F-150 4 wheel drive?
Fully Electric Battery Options
The Ford F-150 Lightning provides a powerful, zero-emissions drive, thanks to its fully electric powertrain. This truck features two motors and a standard 4-wheel drive system, making it well-equipped to power your next adventure.
Is Ford Lightning 4WD or AWD?
AWD
Motorsports
| Ford F-150 Lightning SuperTruck | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Body style | Pickup truck |
| Layout | Mid Engine, AWD |
| Related | Ford Supervan 4.2 |
How does the F-150 Lightning do in snow?
The electric all-wheel drive system in the F-150 Lightning adjusts power delivery to each wheel independently, ensuring optimal grip in any weather condition. Whether you're navigating through ice and snow or hydroplaning across melted slush, you'll be able to maintain total control.
