Last year, Ford announced a revolutionary technology for its all-new electric F-150 Lightning: Intelligent Backup Power. On top of being America's best-selling truck, the F-150 Lightning now offers a mobile backup power generator for homes. In this article, we explore six things you need to know about how the F-150 Lightning can power your home.
The F-150 Lightning and commercial E-Transit Van lineups are currently the only models that support exportable power generation. Both lineups feature Ford's Pro Power Onboard generator, but only the F-150 Lightning will offer the Intelligent Backup Power system initially. The feature will be available in the third quarter of 2023, making the F-150 Lightning the first pickup truck in the US to offer the ability to power homes during power outages.
What You Need for an F-150 Lightning to Power Your Home
To use an F-150 Lightning to power your home, you will need the following components:
An F-150 Lightning with Intelligent Backup Power software. The software is included with the F-150 Lightning equipped with Ford's optional extended-range battery, offered on the XLT trim level and above, or can be purchased for a one-time fee with the standard battery.
Ford's 80-amp Charge Station Pro and Home Integration System to store and supply power to homes.
The Ford Pass App to control power transfer, check vehicle charge status, and receive updates from the Home Integration System.
How Does the F-150 Lightning's Intelligent Backup Power Work
The F-150 Lightning's Intelligent Backup Power is user-friendly and easy to use. Simply plug the F-150 Lightning into Ford's Charge Station Pro and the Home Integration System, and you're ready to go. The system will automatically kick in if the grid goes down, or you can turn it on manually via the Ford Pass App. Once power is restored, or you turn off the system, the EV will revert to its normal charging schedule.
How Long Can the F-150 Lightning Power Your Home
The amount of time a Ford F-150 Lightning can power your home will depend on your power usage. Ford's extended-range battery can store 131 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy and offboard up to 9.6kWh. Based on an average US home that uses 30kWh of power per day, a fully charged F-150 Lightning can power a home for three days, or up to ten days with rationed power usage.
Can the F-150 Lightning Save You Money on Your Electric Bills
Ford's Intelligent Backup Power technology is designed to help customers save money and reduce power load on the grid during peak usage. The technology allows owners to power their homes with their F-150 Lightning when electric rates are higher and charge the EV truck battery when rates are lower. Retail customers will need the Ford Charge Pro and Home Integration System, while commercial customers will work with Ford Pro to create an appropriate home installation plan.
Can the F-150 Lightning Be Used to Power Things Outside Your Home
Yes, the F-150 Lightning is versatile and can be used to power things outside your home. All F-150 Lightnings come equipped with Ford's Pro Power Onboard, which can export up to 9.6kWh of power. The truck includes four 120V outlets in the front trunk, two in the cab, four in the bed, and a 240V outlet in the bed, making it perfect for powering tools and equipment on job sites, as well as for providing backup power for events and outdoor activities. With Pro Power Onboard, you can power your lights, chargers, and other electrical devices anywhere you go. Additionally, the F-150 Lightning also features an integrated generator mode that allows you to power your home during power outages, making it a truly versatile vehicle.