Ford F-150 Lightning Raptor?! Switchgear concept hints at new hero model

What happens when a Ford F-150 Raptor meets an electric F-150?

Developed in conjunction with Vaughn Gittin Junior’s RTR, the same outfit Ford tapped to create the 2020 Mustang Mach-E 1400, the Ford F-150 Switchgear may be the ultimate combination off battery-power and rough road capability.

Inspired by the 2016 F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project (yes, that’s what they called it), Ford Performance pulled the covers off the one-off demonstrator it says is a test bed “pushing the boundaries of what’s expected from electric trucks”.

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The F-150 Lightning Switchgear – named for its ability on sealed surfaces and the rough stuff – starts its metamorphosis with carbon front guards, bedsides and bumpers.

Boasting 37-inch Nitto Ridge Grappler all-terrain tyres on 18-inch wheels – the same size as that on the headlining F-150 Raptor R – the Switchgear’s wild stance is bolstered by wider front and rear tracks.

The extra space accommodates a complete custom suspension setup – double wishbones up front and a multi-link rear with unique control arms and anti-roll bars.

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They’re accompanied by Fox 3.0-inch diameter bypass valve shocks, while there’s also limit straps to help manage suspension and wheel travel.

Steel rock rails and front skid plate have been added, while the custom bumpers also help enable with greater front and rear departure angles.

A chase rack and two-spare wheels have also been fitted behind the cabin, Ford saying that the changes allow the electric F-truck to go where no electric off-roader has before.

The job is finished with a striking electric-themed livery, with more details expected to be revealed as Ford wheels the electric off-roader out for promotional duties.

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The F-150 Switchgear will make its first public appearance on January 25 at the King of Hammers off-road race in the Johnson Valley, California, as the latest of an array of extreme Ford Performance demo cars.

This includes the SuperVan 4.2 it raced at Pikes Peak in 2023 – boasting a 1020kW electric powertrain – which will be driven at Mount Panorama at the 2024 Bathurst 12 Hour GT3 event in February.

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By the way...

the SuperVan is on its way to Australia for a starring scene at Bathurst.