Ford is gearing up to make history once again at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with their groundbreaking F-150 Lightning SuperTruck. Following last year's stunning victory with the SuperVan 4.2, which obliterated the previous record by nearly 37 seconds, the automaker is poised to set another record with their latest high-performance electric vehicle (EV).
The F-150 Lightning SuperTruck showcases Ford's relentless pursuit of innovation and performance. This year’s entry features an impressive powertrain equipped with three STARD UHP 6-Phase Motors, delivering a combined output of over 1,400 horsepower. While this is a step down from the 1,972 horsepower of the SuperVan 4.0, the current setup still promises extraordinary performance, powered by an ultra-high-performance Li-Polymer NMC battery.
One of the most striking aspects of the SuperTruck is its radical aerodynamics. Ford has replaced the camouflage wrap from previous tests with a striking red, white, and blue livery. The design features prominent aerodynamic elements, including a colossal three-piece front splitter, a gigantic swan-neck rear wing, ducts in place of headlights, side diffusers, hood ducts and louvers, and a massive rear diffuser that barely conceals the fully custom, in-board suspension system. These enhancements allow the SuperTruck to generate an astonishing 6,000 pounds of downforce at 150 miles per hour.
The SuperTruck's aggressive stance is complemented by Pirelli P-Zero tires wrapped around magnesium forged wheels, providing superior grip. Behind the wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes ensure that the vehicle can handle the intense demands of the hill climb.
Inside, the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck is stripped down to essentials, emphasizing function over form. The interior features a bare carbon-fiber floor, a racing seat, a steering wheel, and a small display. A makeshift center console houses two rows of buttons that control various vehicle functions, highlighting the truck's no-nonsense, performance-focused design.
Veteran racing driver Romain Dumas, who set the new record in the Open Class last year with a time of 8 minutes and 47.682 seconds, will once again be behind the wheel. With the enhanced power and refined aerodynamics of the SuperTruck, expectations are high that Ford will set another record at this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, scheduled for June 23.
Ford's ambitious entry into the Pikes Peak Hill Climb with the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck underscores the automaker's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. As the race day approaches, the automotive world will be watching closely to see if Ford can once again make history on one of the most challenging and prestigious racing courses in the world.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.