Ford Performance is set to navigate the challenging terrain of Pikes Peak with the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck with Romain Dumas behind the wheel. This will be Ford’s second-straight EV-powered entry, with last year’s 1,400-hp E-Transit SuperVan setting an impressive class record. 

Preparing for the Uphill Task

The team at Ford Performance is enhancing the aerodynamics and power output of their standard Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup for the 12.5-mile climb. The company gave us a teaser of the modifications today, but would only promise more details “later”. The 102nd Pikes Peak International Hill Climb takes place on June 23, with qualifying starting June 18, so we won’t have to wait long to see more.

A portion of the modified aerodynamics of Ford's F-150 Lightning SuperTruck are teased with red light

A Laboratory on Wheels

The rigorous conditions of Pikes Peak provide a unique opportunity for Ford to test and develop various electric vehicle components. These include motors, inverters, and battery packs. The data collected will be instrumental in improving the calibration of software and battery cell chemistry for Ford’s production vehicles. 

By returning to Pikes Peak, Ford Performance says it aims to accelerate the evolution of electric vehicle technology, ensuring that future production models benefit from the rigorous testing and development undertaken on “America’s Mountain.”