Ford F-150 Lightning Used Sales Surge as New Production Ends
The Ford F-150 Lightning is experiencing a surge in used sales, moving in approximately 20 days at prices 50% to 60% below the original sticker. This rapid turnover occurs after Ford ended new production in December 2025, citing poor sales of high-priced electric vehicles. While the new model failed to meet financial expectations, the used market has found a 'sweet spot' for buyers seeking affordable electric pickups. Ford plans to replace the Lightning with the more affordable Fathom EV pickup in 2027, aiming for 100,000 units in its first year.
Key points
- Used F-150 Lightnings are selling in about 20 days, significantly faster than the 44-day average for used vehicles in the US.
- Prices for used Lightnings have risen 4% to approximately $50,000 since the start of the year, despite being 50% to 60% off the original sticker price.
- Ford ended F-150 Lightning production in December 2025, with CEO Jim Farley stating that high-end EVs in the $50,000 to $80,000 range were not selling.
- The F-150 Lightning lost over $100,000 per unit in the first quarter of 2024, with average transaction prices reaching $79,000 in its first year.
- Ford will launch the Fathom EV pickup in 2027, starting at $28,350, with a goal of selling 100,000 units in its first year.
Background
Ford previously announced the cancellation of the F-150 Lightning and the development of the Fathom EV pickup, which is set to launch in 2027. The Fathom is designed to be more affordable, starting at under $30,000, and is built on Ford's new Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform. Earlier reports indicated that Ford aimed to sell 100,000 Fathoms in its first year, a target that would match Tesla's annual volume. The Fathom is expected to offer features such as Apple Maps integration, NACS charging ports, and a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.
Why it matters
The surge in used F-150 Lightning sales highlights a significant price gap between new and used electric vehicles, suggesting that affordability is a key driver for EV adoption. Ford's pivot to the more affordable Fathom indicates a strategic shift in its EV lineup to address market demand and improve profitability. The success of the Fathom could determine Ford's future in the electric pickup market and its ability to compete with Tesla and other manufacturers.
What to watch
Ford is expected to launch the Fathom EV pickup in 2027, with production beginning at its Louisville plant. The company aims to sell 100,000 units in the first year, a target that will test the market's demand for affordable electric pickups. Further details on the Fathom's battery specs, towing capacity, and range are expected to be revealed soon.
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