Is This Ford F-150 Lightning Switchgear The New RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver?

• The F-150 Lightning Switchgear is a collaboration between Ford Performance and RTR Vehicles, drawing inspiration from the F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project.
• With widened track width, improved ground clearance, and FOX 3-inch diameter internal bypass shock absorbers, the Switchgear excels both on and off-road.
• Tthe F-150 Lightning Switchgear’s debut at the King of the Hammers off-road racing event in Johnson Valley, California showcased its impressive performance in challenging terrain.

Ford Performance and RTR Vehicles joined forces, inspired by the iconic F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver. Their collaboration birthed the F-150 Lightning Switchgear, an electric off-road truck, where innovation meets adrenaline in a symphony of power.

At the heart of the F-150 Lightning Switchgear lies an electric powertrain, complemented by massive 37-inch tires that ensure traction in the most challenging terrain. Designed and built in collaboration with RTR Vehicles, the Switchgear draws inspiration from the acclaimed F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project vehicle, improving it with the latest technology and performance upgrades.

“It’s the latest in our Ford Performance Demonstrator program that showcases the possibilities of what an electric vehicle can be and provides a playground for engineers to advance learnings quickly for future electric vehicles,” stated Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports.

As the latest addition to Ford’s prestigious Demonstrator program, the Switchgear joins a distinguished lineup of electrified powerhouses, including the SuperVan series, Mustang Mach-E 1400, CobraJet 1400, and the F-100 Eluminator. Through these innovative projects, Ford has its eyes set to demonstrate the endless possibilities of electric vehicles while giving engineers a platform to speed up progress in electric mobility.

“Switchgear specifically provides a testbed for pushing the boundaries of what’s expected from electric trucks.,” added Rushbrook.

One of the most striking features of the F-150 Lightning Switchgear is its significant increase in track width, enhancing off-road stability and maneuverability. Paired with improved ground clearance and suspension travel, the Switchgear is primed to tackle rough terrain with confidence. The custom independent double-wishbone suspension at the front, coupled with multilink independent suspension at the rear, ensures optimal handling and control in diverse off-road conditions.

“F-150 Lightning Switchgear – named not just for its off-road capability, but its performance on asphalt (more on that later) – uses FOX 3-inch diameter internal bypass shock absorbers plus unique front and rear bumpers to improve approach and departure angles,” explained Rushbrook.

Forged from carbon composite materials, the Switchgear features a rugged exterior designed to withstand the rigors of off-road exploration. Every detail of the Switchgear’s design, from the customized front fenders to the steel rock rails and front skid plate, is carefully designed for durability and performance.

Enthusiasts had the opportunity to witness the debut of the F-150 Lightning Switchgear at the King of the Hammers off-road racing event, where it showed off its performance capabilities in the rugged terrain of Johnson Valley, California.

IMAGES: FORD PERFORMANCE MOTORSPORTS

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