Ford has announced that its anticipated F-150 Lightning pickup has completed two weeks of winter testing in extreme cold weather. The automaker says its engineers spent two weeks in Alaska in temperatures of 30 degrees below zero to fine-tune the Lightning pickup. Fine-tuning included improving performance on low traction surfaces like snow and ice.
Low-Mu Testing and Its Importance
Ford calls the test low-mu testing. The term “mu” refers to the coefficient of friction, and low-mu testing is crucial for understanding how vehicles perform on surfaces with low friction, such as snow and ice. The powertrain evaluation was specifically meant to investigate how the electric powertrain adjusts power delivery to its wheels on surfaces common to winter driving, including snow and ice. Testing involved driving the truck on loose snow, pack-groomed snow, complete ice, half ice and half concrete, and other surfaces.
According to powertrain engineers, the vehicle can coordinate its dual motors to work together to deliver torque to the ground to give owners confidence in snow and ice. The Lightning comes with standard dual motors and is always on 4WD, selectable drive modes, and a locking rear differential. This combination ensures that the vehicle can handle a variety of challenging conditions, making it a reliable choice for those who live in areas with harsh winters.
Advanced Features for Winter Driving
The F-150 Lightning is equipped with several advanced features designed to enhance its performance in winter conditions. One of the standout features is its dual-motor setup, which provides all-wheel drive capabilities. This setup allows the vehicle to distribute power evenly between the front and rear wheels, improving traction and stability on slippery surfaces.
Another significant feature is the selectable drive modes. These modes allow drivers to adjust the vehicle’s performance based on the current driving conditions. For example, there is a specific mode for snow and ice that optimizes the power delivery and traction control systems to provide better handling and stability. The locking rear differential further enhances the vehicle’s ability to navigate through deep snow or icy patches by ensuring that both rear wheels receive equal power.
In addition to these mechanical features, the F-150 Lightning also comes with advanced driver-assistance systems. These systems include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, all of which can be particularly useful in winter driving conditions. For instance, adaptive cruise control can help maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even on slippery roads, while lane-keeping assist can prevent the vehicle from drifting out of its lane due to icy conditions.
The winter testing in Alaska also provided valuable data on the vehicle’s battery performance in extreme cold. Electric vehicles often face challenges in maintaining battery efficiency in low temperatures, but Ford’s engineers have worked to ensure that the F-150 Lightning’s battery can perform reliably even in harsh winter conditions. This includes optimizing the thermal management system to keep the battery at an optimal temperature, thereby maintaining its range and performance.
The F-150 Lightning’s successful completion of winter testing in Alaska demonstrates Ford’s commitment to delivering a reliable and capable electric pickup truck. With its advanced features and rigorous testing, the Lightning is well-equipped to handle the challenges of winter driving, providing confidence and peace of mind to its owners. Whether you’re navigating through a snowstorm or driving on icy roads, the F-150 Lightning is designed to keep you safe and in control.
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