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The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning brings a minor range increase for its standard battery but significant price hikes across all trims, making it a more expensive proposition for electric truck shoppers who hesitated during the initial reservation period.
Ford has reopened orders for its all-electric pickup after overwhelming demand—over 160,000 reservations—forced the automaker to temporarily close its reservation window in late 2021. For the 2023 model year, the main updates include a slight range increase for the standard-range battery and the expansion of a useful trailering feature across the entire lineup. However, these improvements come with substantially higher prices, increasing by between $6,000 and $8,500 depending on the trim.
What Is the Driving Range of the 2023 Lightning?
The most notable technical improvement is the increased range for models equipped with the standard battery pack. Ford states the standard-range battery now offers an estimated 240 miles, up from the previous 230 miles. It's important to note that the official EPA rating had not been updated at the time of this writing. This battery is available on the Pro, XLT, and Lariat trims.
The long-range battery pack remains unchanged, offering:
A key enhancement for the 2023 model year is the standardization of the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist system. This feature, part of the Tow Technology Package, automates the process of hitching a trailer by controlling the vehicle's steering, braking, and acceleration. Previously standard only on the Platinum and some Lariat models, it is now available on every trim level, including the base Pro. This adds significant value for buyers who frequently tow.
The most significant change for potential buyers is the price. Ford attributes the increases to "significant material cost increases and other factors." The price adjustments are substantial, ranging from $6,000 to $8,500, and they apply to new reservations and existing reservations that have not yet been converted to a formal order. Customers with existing orders are protected from the increase.
Below is a breakdown of the new 2023 F-150 Lightning pricing, which includes a $1,795 destination fee but excludes potential tax credits.
| Trim Level | Battery Type | New Price (including destination) | Price Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro | Standard Range | $48,769 | +$7,000 |
| XLT | Standard Range | $61,289 | +$6,500 |
| XLT | Long Range | $82,769 | +$8,500 |
| Lariat | Standard Range | $76,269 | +$7,000 |
| Lariat | Long Range | $87,769 | +$8,500 |
| Platinum | Long Range | $98,669 | +$6,000 |
While the new prices are a steep jump from the 2022 model, the 2023 F-150 Lightning remains competitively positioned within the nascent electric pickup truck market. Key rivals like the GMC Hummer EV Pickup and Rivian R1T have starting prices well above $80,000. Chevrolet has announced an eventual $50,000 version of its upcoming Silverado EV, but initial models are also expected to be priced higher.
For shoppers considering the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning, the decision now involves weighing the improved standard range and added features against a significantly higher cost of entry.
