Ford has decided to pause production of the F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck indefinitely, refocusing its efforts on gasoline and hybrid versions of its best-selling F-Series.
This move comes after a fire at Novelis, a key aluminum supplier, which caused significant supply disruptions. Aluminum is crucial for the lightweight construction of both electric and traditional F-150s. Rather than attempting to maintain the electric truck’s production amid limited materials, Ford is redirecting resources toward gasoline and hybrid trucks, which continue to sell strongly and offer better profit margins. The experts in used cars at Indy Auto Man analyzed how this strategic step may influence prices on used Ford trucks.
Production Adjustments and Workforce Changes
In 2026, Ford will add a third work shift at its Dearborn plant, increasing gasoline and hybrid F-150 output by roughly 45,000 units annually. To support this, about 1,200 new jobs will be created, and employees from the paused Lightning assembly will move to gasoline truck production. This reflects Ford’s drive to meet demand where sales and profits remain strong.
Separately, Ford is investing $60 million to boost output at the Kentucky plant, increasing Super Duty production by one truck per hour. That may seem small, but it will result in an additional 5,000 heavy-duty pickups annually to meet steady demand.
Features and Price Differences Between F-150 and F-150 Lightning
The traditional F-150 remains a workhorse in the full-size pickup market. It offers various engine choices, including robust V6 and V8 options, plus a fuel-efficient hybrid. Buyers appreciate its towing power, payload capacity, and a broad range of trims, with prices generally starting around $42,000 and reaching above $70,000 at the top end.
The F-150 Lightning, Ford’s all-electric pickup, delivers instant torque and zero tailpipe emissions. It features cutting-edge technology and has an estimated electric range of 230 to 320 miles, depending on the battery size. Starting prices are approximately $50,000, increasing to over $90,000 for fully loaded versions. Despite its innovation, production issues and supply chain hurdles have limited its availability.
Effects on the Used Truck Market
Halting new Lightning production will likely boost demand for used electric F-150s, potentially pushing their prices up as buyers eagerly seek available electric trucks across various markets nationwide. Meanwhile, the increased supply of new gasoline F-150s could gradually slow overall price growth in the used gasoline truck market, though the F-150’s solid reputation will continue to strongly support used values overall.
Financial Impact and Strategic Direction
The Novelis fire is expected to cost Ford around $1 billion, yet the company’s financial health remains sound, with a record $50.5 billion in third-quarter revenue and $2.4 billion net profit. Additional costs from tariffs imposed in recent years have also affected the bottom line.
Ford’s decision to pause the electric F-150 and prioritize gasoline and hybrid models is a calculated step. While the Lightning represents the future of trucks for Ford, current supply challenges and market economics make the proven gasoline models a safer bet for now. This approach enables Ford to maintain its dominant market position while mitigating risks associated with the electric vehicle transition.
