Ford’s F-150 Lightning is the top selling electric truck in the US through November. As production at its Rouge EV plant ramps up, a new video gives us an inside look at how Ford builds its Lightning in the US.
Ford has been building trucks for over 100 years. Since introducing the Model TT in 1917, Ford’s trucks have come a long way. And along the way, Ford has learned a thing or two about how to build them.
The American automaker is known for innovations like the moving assembly line. The production method, introduced in 1913, enabled Ford to lower prices significantly, making its vehicles more competitive.
Ford introduced the Lightning in May 2021 as its “smartest, most innovative truck yet.” With over 100 years of building pickups, that’s a big feat.
With 4,393 Lightning’s sold last month, more than doubling (+113%) over last year, Ford’s electric pickup set a new monthly sales record. Ford sold more Lightning models last month than it did the entire third quarter.
In September, a Ford spokeperson told Electrek that Lightning production is “starting to ramp after a six week shutdown” to expand its Rouge EV facility.
If you’ve ever wondered what the process looks like, a new video takes us inside the facility where the electric truck is built.
Ford F-150 Lightning production at Rouge EV plant (Source: Ford)
How Ford builds the F-150 Lightning EV pickup
A recent video from Frame gives us a detailed look at how Ford builds the Lightning EV pickup at its Dearborn, Mi plant.
How Ford builds the F-150 Lightning electric pickup (Source: Frame)
As you can see the facility uses high tech machinery to speed up production. Robots like automated guided vehicles (AGVs) can be seen transporting cars to different workstations.
Workers inspect and ensure the wiring is placed properly. Then, its time for the headlights and signature Lightning grille.
After that, the dashboard and center console are fitted into place. The Lightning then gets its front and back windows.
As it continues moving through assembly, the charging port is installed in a designated slot. The badges are then carefully placed to protect the paint.
Ford F-150 Lightning production (Source: Ford)
The pickup starts to come together during frame assembly when the cabin and truck bed are joined. Check out the full video above to see how the Ford’s Lightning comes together including the battery pack and motor.
Ford added a new F-150 Lightning “Flash” to the 2024 model lineup. With pulled favorites from the XLT and Lariat models, the Flash hits all the “sweet spots.” It includes a feature-rich interior, up to 320 miles range, Ford’s Tow Tech Package, and a heatpump for less than $70,000.
If you’re ready to hop into a new electric Ford Lightning pickup, we can help you get started. You can use our link to find great deals on a 2023 or 2024 Lightningat a neaby dealership today.
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Chevy set a new EV range record going nearly 1,060 miles on a single charge in an optimized, but unmodified Chevy Silverado EV Work Truck that no one saw coming. No one, that is, except Chargeway founder Matt Teske. His EV route-planning map predicted the Silverado’s record-setting run with better than 99% accuracy – and he’s here to talk about it on today’s electric episode of Quick Charge!
We’ve also got a deep dive into what I think the biggest issue facing more widespread EV adoption might be, and a new solution from Blink Charging that might solve it.
Today’s episode is brought to you by Retrospec—makers of sleek, powerful e-bikes and outdoor gear built for everyday adventure. Check out Retrospec’s viral city ebike, the Beaumont Rev 2, made with a vintage-inspired frame design and modern electric features, all for just $999!
The best part: Electrek listeners can get 10% off their next ride until August 14 with the exclusive code ELECTREK10 only at retrospec.com
New episodes of Quick Charge are recorded, usually, Monday through Thursday (most weeks, anyway). We’ll be posting bonus audio content from time to time as well, so be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss a minute of Electrek’s high-voltage daily news.
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Aventon’s final summer sale gives the new Abound SR smart cargo e-bike its first discount to $1,799, more from $1,199
Aventon has launched its final summer sale through September 3 with up to $500 being taken off its e-bike lineup, including increased savings on legacy models, and two of its newest smart models seeing price cuts. Alongside the second-ever discount on the new Pace 4 Step-Through e-bike, we’re seeing the first cash savings on Aventon’s Abound SR Cargo e-bike to $1,799 shipped. This smart commuting solution has been fetching $1,899 since hitting the market at the end of 2024, with discounts having been placed on its predecessor model (currently down at $1,599). This is the first time we’ve spotted any savings being attached to this model, setting the bar for future discounts. Head below to learn more about it or to check out the full lineup of deals during this sale.
The new Aventon Abound SR e-bike takes all that we love about its predecessor and steps up the game with smarter features. To start, there is a 750W rear hub motor (1,188W peak) paired with a 733Wh battery (which you can conveniently unlock and remove without keys via the LCD screen) that provides you with up to a 60-mile travel range at up to 20 MPH speeds (that can be adjusted to 25 MPH). There are three riding modes available here, with the added Ride Tune customization letting you alter their performances to suit your preferences.
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There are some great structural features like the Tektro hydraulic disc brake system, the 8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur, and the rear cargo rack with an increased 143-pound payload, but what really makes this cargo hauler truly special is the large array of new features we’ve only seen on the latest releases. First, there’s the Sensor Switch tech, allowing you to choose between a cadence sensor and a torque sensor as you ride, as well as other in-ride functions like cruise control, a boost mode to increase power for steep hills, and even a hold mode when you’re on said inclines and don’t want the bike rolling backwards. Of course, there’s also the security measures in the form of a startup password, an integrated kickstand lock, and in-app geofencing settings, which cuts the power and sends you alerts should it ever leave your designated areas.
Jackery’s Explorer 300 power station is a compact companion keeping your personal devices running for $169
By way of its official Amazon storefront, Jackery is offering its compact Explorer 300 Portable Power Station for $169 shipped, beating out its pricing directly from the brand’s website by $70. While it carries a $279 MSRP from the brand, it keeps down at a $259 full price tag here at Amazon, with discounts having kept the costs even lower between $199 and $169 over 2025, with a one-time appearing $159 low back during Prime Day. Aside from that short-term discount, you’re otherwise looking at another shot at the best price we have tracked, which gives you an easy-to-manage compact backup power solution with $90 in savings ($110 off the MSRP). Head below for more on this model and its bundle options.
Streamline your water system with smart controls through Rachio’s 8-zone sprinkler controller at $169
Amazon is now offering the Rachio 3rd Gen 8-zone Wi-Fi Smart Sprinkler Controller at $169 shipped. While it may carry a $230 MSRP, we’ve been seeing it keep down to $200 at full price here at Amazon. Aside from the short-term Prime Day discounts, which first took the price down to $165 before falling to $160, this is the best rate we’ve seen since mid-March. While it’s gone as low as $143 in the past, you’re still looking at a solid $31 off the going rate ($61 off the MSRP) that lands it among the best prices we’ve tracked in 2025.
Take advantage of up to 50% off this pro-grade 80V Greenworks cordless cultivator at a new $175 low
Amazon is offering the Greenworks Pro 80V 10-inch Cordless Cultivator at $174.99 shipped, which beats out its tool-only option that is sitting $75 higher in price. While this package carries a $400 MSRP, which is where it’s currently priced on the brand’s direct website, it is now 50% off the price we have been tracking on Amazon since the spring and is now at the lowest price we have tracked all-time.
Get a budget-friendly commute to your college or work on Gotrax’s APEX XL e-scooter at its $235 low
Amazon is offering the Gotrax APEX XL Electric Scooter at $234.90 shipped. While it carries a $349 price tag, we’ve been seeing it keep more at $320 at Amazon lately, with discounts having mostly kept the costs above $243, with one previous fall to this same rate at the end of July. That low price is coming back around here, with the 27% markdown cutting $85 off the going rate for the best price we have tracked – and just in time to cover any last-minute back-to-school commuting needs.
The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.
The PV5, Kia’s first electric van, was “unboxed” after arriving in parts of Europe this week. After opening pre-orders in new markets, the PV5 is ready to take on the world.
Kia’s first electric van unboxed in Europe
It’s not just a futuristic-looking electric people mover, but the PV5 is the first van from Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business.
Kia opened pre-orders for the PV5 in the UK earlier this year, starting at £32,995 ($44,000). Now, it has officially arrived in a few more European markets.
The PV5 went on sale with pre-orders opening in Germany, France, Belgium, Sweden, and other global markets. In Germany, the PV5 Passenger is priced from €38,290 ($45,000) or €249 per month. In France, it starts at €39,550 ($46,300).
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Kia Sweden posted a video on social media of the PV5 arriving on a car carrier with the caption “Unboxed, washed, and ready to face the world!”
Kia’s electric van is available in Passenger (for everyday use) and Cargo (for businesses) with various seating options.
The PV5, Kia’s first electric van, arrives in Sweden (Source: Kia Sweden)
The PV5 Passenger is offered with two battery packs: 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh, rated with WLTP ranges of 179 miles and 249 miles, respectively. Although it has the same battery pack options, the Cargo variant is rated with ranges of 181 miles and 247 miles.
During its PV5 Tech Day last month, Kia announced plans to launch seven PV5 body types, including a Light Camper, an Open Bed (similar to a pickup), and a premium “Prime” version.
Kia PV5 tech day (Source: Kia)
After launching the PV5 in its home market, Kia will begin delivering the vehicle in Europe and other global markets over the next few months.
For those in the US, Kia has yet to say if it will launch the PV5 in the States. It was spotted testing in the US again last month, but it would face hurdles due to Trump’s tariffs on imported vehicles from South Korea.
Kia builds all PBVs at its Hwaseong EVO plant in South Korea. The plant can produce up to 150,000 units a year. In its first full sales year, Kia aims to sell around 3,000 to 4,000 PV5s. Kia will expand its electric van lineup with the larger PV7 in 2027 and PV9 in 2029.
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