[maelstop]

My reservation date was 5/23, I was originally interested because:
1. Liked the design - you can't tell it is an EV
2. Liked the idea of my first EV is actually a truck
3. How fast it was and it really was the only EV truck available
4. overall Idea of an EV (Quite/fast/technology)

Now I am likely to walk away - don't care about the price hikes. that's reality during inflationary times.

1. Its been SOOOO long and after watching 200 hours of youtube video's I feel like the design is old already.
2. I REALLY like the Denali EV - specifically the 4 wheel turn and tighter turning radius which is a huge deal for a truck and my wife driving the thing.
3. Midgate is awesome. love the versatility you get out of that.
4. Critical videos about Lightning battery range loss (cold weather/towing) but admittedly I dont know if the GMC will be any different.
5. At this point because GMC is limiting the reservations, I think I have a better shot of getting it sooner.
5a. No I didnt get a reservation for the GMC Denali 1 edition. I am waiting for the Sierra Denali EV reservations to open.
5b. my Ford dealer cant say where I am in the list (or won't say) but it may not matter because I just don't want it as much anymore.


The only thing I don't like about the GMC is the same horizontal screen, it's just lazy design. but the ford is no different. Oh and I dont like how the GMC looks like an EV. I dont like attention. But the 4 wheel steer and midgate are the killer apps.

The only thing keeping me from canceling lightning reservation is actually having a reservation for the GMC.

 

[TechDaddy3x]

I think first, every EV (including Tesla) and ICE vehicles experience the same “range” loss during cold weather and towing. It, might be more or feel like more because it’s a hot click driving topic. TFLEV just did a great video walking through this exact thing. Kind of like how tesla gets constant autopilot crashes news articles…all cars crash but those make headlines.

Second, probably not getting the GMC until 2024-25, it will have the same if not a few different issues. Vehicles that have active communities like this tend to get the glaring eye of the consumer. Think of it this way…someone points out an issue that 99% of people don’t notice or think is an issue. Everyone in that forums goes and checks and now something that is within spec is touted as an issue.

I would recommend keeping the lightning res and perhaps purchasing until the GMC is actually ready. With prices not looking to relieve themselves, especially on EVs, over the next few years; you’re likely going to recoup most of your money. Heck depending on your location, even the gas could be enough of an offset. My first 1k miles we calculated I spent $33 in charging + electric bill increase vs $284 in gas for the same miles in my old truck.

 

[Leaf to Lightning : )]

we can all certainly go back and forth when you have such a HUGE timeframe to sit through 'waiting' to get a vehicle: if these were side-by-side on a dealer's lot, it might not be such a thoughtful process, and we wouldn't be on these forums questioning ourselves. NO truck is available EXCEPT the Lightning. Everything else is speculation, at this point. No matter how 'great' everyone else's truck is 'going to be', it aint' for sure until it's actually being received by customers, and that sounds like WELL into the future. Even more waiting. I would also question as to whether these details that you mention will be on every trim level. It's like Ford touting the ER battery range, when that's a huge price upgrade. Or the 'blue cruise' hands-free driving system that is only available, again, by a HUGE upgrade in price over the 'announced' entry-level 'sub $40k' price tag. NO LIGHTNING will ever be that price. I suspect the same for others.

 

[HellBoy]

Just wanted to put a few things out there:

1 winter range loss will happen with any EV, between 10-50% depending on outdoor’s temperature…so yeah, won’t make a diff…

2- the new GM EV software is a nightmare, Android Automotive has caused Hummer owners a lot of pain…TFL’s Hummer had a complete software breakdown 3 days into use; but you can go to forums to read more about it - restarts, blank screens, loss of communications, many many others…very likely some of these won’t be resolved.

3- new platform…and the issues that will pop up

 

[Rocko52]

My opinion / thoughts. If you've waited this long -- and you really want to an EV (i.e. Lightning). Why not wait!!. I personally put my reservation on 5/19/2021 and seriously thought I would just walk away as you said because of all the non-communication or any updates. Then I was finally asked by Ford would to submit my order on 9/15/2022. My truck was finally built on 11/31/22 and scheduled to be delivered around 12/15-21/22.! I'm a "big kid" waiting for my Xmas present before Xmas!!

I'm totally stoked & excited to be able to become part of the "EV movement" - nothing political! Even if these "Lightnings" have software or hardware issues - this is part of the process and learning by Ford and I (the consumer). Worst case scenario - if the truck doesn't fit my overall expectations or too many problems - I can always turnaround and get an ICE vehicle or another EV whether it's a truck or car.

If you don't have any commitments to not wait -- worst case - you get your $100 deposit back from Ford. Again - just my 2 cents thoughts!

 

[Txxthie]

Lightning doesn’t have a heat pump commonly found in most bespoke EVs. That alone will increase cold weather efficiency up to 25%. Additionally, very little consideration was paid to aerodynamics which affects efficiency at speeds over 60mph. TFL did an excellent rebuttal to bozo Hoovie’s Garage video on why he sold his Lightning. It will clear up a lot of your reservations about the Lightning. TBH: My only interest in the Lightning was the value proposition with the Pro trim. The lack of innovation with the current design doesn’t warrant prices north of $60k.

 

[jimfigler]

I got my 23 Pro at 22 pricing and love it so far. I have a Silverado reservation too. Will I use it? Who knows, probably not. I figure hold on to the Lightning for 3 years give or take and then see what's out there with new tech.

 

[Tubby]

My reservation date was 5/23, I was originally interested because:
1. Liked the design - you can't tell it is an EV
2. Liked the idea of my first EV is actually a truck
3. How fast it was and it really was the only EV truck available
4. overall Idea of an EV (Quite/fast/technology)

Now I am likely to walk away - don't care about the price hikes. that's reality during inflationary times.

1. Its been SOOOO long and after watching 200 hours of youtube video's I feel like the design is old already.
2. I REALLY like the Denali EV - specifically the 4 wheel turn and tighter turning radius which is a huge deal for a truck and my wife driving the thing.
3. Midgate is awesome. love the versatility you get out of that.
4. Critical videos about Lightning battery range loss (cold weather/towing) but admittedly I dont know if the GMC will be any different.
5. At this point because GMC is limiting the reservations, I think I have a better shot of getting it sooner.
5a. No I didnt get a reservation for the GMC Denali 1 edition. I am waiting for the Sierra Denali EV reservations to open.
5b. my Ford dealer cant say where I am in the list (or won't say) but it may not matter because I just don't want it as much anymore.


The only thing I don't like about the GMC is the same horizontal screen, it's just lazy design. but the ford is no different. Oh and I dont like how the GMC looks like an EV. I dont like attention. But the 4 wheel steer and midgate are the killer apps.

The only thing keeping me from canceling lightning reservation is actually having a reservation for the GMC.

I liked your comment on the "watching of 200 hours of Youtube videos". I'm thinking many reservation holders are doing the same thing. I also think many of the not-so-patiently waiting any more folks are questioning whether it is really worth this wait, especially since you can find plenty of show-stoppers/whammies on Youtube if you are looking for them, especially if they involve cold weather, hauling, or just longer distance driving that we are all used to with ICE. Oddly enough, it somehow seems like the demand has diminished a bit based on the number of Lightnings that seem to be for sale on dealer lots. I may be mistaken on this, but I'm kind of basing this on the units now listed on Craigslist. The novelty of these new first-generation F150 EV trucks has created a high interest, but many are finding it just doesn't work well for them so you may be able to take the chance there will be plenty of like new ones coming available to purchase which are available well before you get your highly anticipated email or Ford gets to an acceptable or full production schedule. Most people reading this forum already know this, but unfortunately, the parts/chips issue greatly delays everything. And for all of us who are still waiting or have already waited, I just hope the anticipation won't be more exciting than actually getting one. As with many statements and comments and no pun intended, "Your mileage may vary".

 

[HellBoy]

Lightning doesn’t have a heat pump commonly found in most bespoke EVs. That alone will increase cold weather efficiency up to 25%. Additionally, very little consideration was paid to aerodynamics which affects efficiency at speeds over 60mph. TFL did an excellent rebuttal to bozo Hoovie’s Garage video on why he sold his Lightning. It will clear up a lot of your reservations about the Lightning. TBH: My only interest in the Lightning was the value proposition with the Pro trim. The lack of innovation with the current design doesn’t warrant prices north of $60k.

just fyi - I’ve had 2 EVs with a heat pump and the difference is totally negligible…worst of all, the Model 3 heat pump (it is equipped with only a heat pump) was clearly not tested in deep winter because my Model 3 could barely output any heat below -30

 

[R.I.P.]

just fyi - I’ve had 2 EVs with a heat pump and the difference is totally negligible…worst of all, the Model 3 heat pump (it is equipped with only a heat pump) was clearly not tested in deep winter because my Model 3 could barely output any heat below -30

... While my experience is quite different. There is a massive difference between our Bolt with no heat pump and the Model Y with the heat pump when it comes to heating draw. Our Model Y is the go-to in the cold Nebraska winter because it is so much more efficient, you just don't even think about running the heat as high as you want. With the Bolt, it is a conscious decision to run the heat as low as possible, and it still draws power like crazy.

 

[Txxthie]

just fyi - I’ve had 2 EVs with a heat pump and the difference is totally negligible…worst of all, the Model 3 heat pump (it is equipped with only a heat pump) was clearly not tested in deep winter because my Model 3 could barely output any heat below -30

Not in my experience having owned a 2018 TM3, 2017 Chevy and 2022 ID 4 RWD all without heat pumps. It’s a noticeable difference compared to 2022 Ioniq 5 and 2022 TM3 with heat pumps. I can actually use heat now with minimal loss in range. Not using a resistive heater makes a big difference. In temperatures near -30 which is a far from the norm, heat pumps not as effective. Here in the northeast they work great and you want one.

 

[HellBoy]

Not with in experience having owned a 2018 TM3, 2017 Chevy and 2022 ID 4 RWD all without heat pumps. It’s a noticeable difference compared to 2022 Ioniq 5 and 2022 TM3 with heat pumps. I can actually use heat now with minimal loss in range. Not using a resistive heater makes a big difference. In temperatures near -30 which is a far from the norm, heat pumps not as effective. Here in the northeast they work great and you want one.

again…not sure how much of this is true - my Kona EV had a heat pump and resistive heater, Ionic 5 is the same. I noticed a VERY small diff between resistive and heat pump…but that was only at around -10C…after that, felt like it was all the same compared to the Lightning…

at winter peak, I was down to 190 miles of range lol

perhaps there are some benefits if one experienced mild winters, like 32F+kinda of weather

 

[Txxthie]

again…not sure how much of this is true - my Kona EV had a heat pump and resistive heater, Ionic 5 is the same. I noticed a VERY small diff between resistive and heat pump…but that was only at around -10C…after that, felt like it was all the same compared to the Lightning…

at winter peak, I was down to 190 miles of range lol

perhaps there are some benefits if one experienced mild winters, like 32F+kinda of weather

Ioniq 5 is a bespoke EV and Kona is not. Little part sharing with these vehicles. 800V architecture vs 400V. Also poor routing of the plumping with Kona, Monro video shows that during an undercarriage review. Who cares if heat pumps lose some efficiency gains in extreme freezing temps. You’re the minority in regards to cold temps. Why would Hyundai only offer a heat pump on AWD if it wasn’t beneficial in cold weather?

 

[HellBoy]

Ioniq 5 is a bespoke EV and Kona is not. Little part sharing with these vehicles. 800V architecture vs 400V. Also poor routing of the plumping with Kona, Monro video shows that during an undercarriage review. Who cares if heat pumps lose some efficiency gains in extreme freezing temps. You’re the minority in regards to cold temps. Why would Hyundai only offer a heat pump on AWD if it wasn’t beneficial in cold weather?

same pump…lots of parts sharing between them!

and hey a 19 Model 3 here too- I used the Kona as an example because it had both.

heat pumps are not such a huge deal - good idea? Sure…but…

 

[Safari]

I have a reservation for the GMC Denali EV 1st edition, my plan is to keep my Lightning until it comes out (2024?) and then if there is any significant advantage trade in one for the other.

Given that Ford have only made 13k Lightnings so far (Dec 22) I don’t think the price will decline much by then and depending on your local laws you might even turn a profit on your trade in.
But who knows where the market will go…

 

[R.I.P.]

I have a reservation for the GMC Denali EV 1st edition, my plan is to keep my Lightning until it comes out (2024?) and then if there is any significant advantage trade in one for the other.

Given that Ford have only made 13k Lightnings so far (Dec 22) I don’t think the price will decline much by then and depending on your local laws you might even turn a profit on your trade in.
But who knows where the market will go…

My situation as well. My Lightning will tide me over until the Denali is built. My 1st edition reservation was paid for and confirmed 62 seconds after the gates opened.

 

[Phil.blog]

I'm also really loving the Denali.

That being said, keep in mind your are essentially betting on a promise. Since they aren't out, we have no idea if the range will be anywhere near what they say. Or even if other features will be scrapped/added.

Range isn't a big deal for me, as I do very little mileage each year. But I certainly wouldn't turn my nose up at more range either for when we do the occasional road trip.

I'm definitely eyeing one for my next EV. For now, I'm picking up my Lightning on Saturday and that will keep me entertained😂

 

[ChasingCoral]

That being said, keep in mind your are essentially betting on a promise. Since they aren't out, we have no idea if the range will be anywhere near what they say. Or even if other features will be scrapped/added.

Not even a promise yet. Just advertising copy.

 

[Busted]

I struggled with the same issues as @maelstop. And have two Sierras reserved. A lot of details to like with the Sierra -- and a dealer offering 10% below MSRP if reserved through them.

I expect this to be my last vehicle and I was worried about buyers remorse.

But the GM announcement that it would be 2024 until earliest delivery, and then only fleets and the $107,000 Denali would be available, so maybe 2025 for anything even close to the Lariat or XLT price soothed my concerns.

Of course with the 10% off, that is only about $6000 more than my Lariat.

Good luck with your decision.

 

[honeybadgergardens]

My reservation date was 5/23, I was originally interested because:
1. Liked the design - you can't tell it is an EV
2. Liked the idea of my first EV is actually a truck
3. How fast it was and it really was the only EV truck available
4. overall Idea of an EV (Quite/fast/technology)

Now I am likely to walk away - don't care about the price hikes. that's reality during inflationary times.

1. Its been SOOOO long and after watching 200 hours of youtube video's I feel like the design is old already.
2. I REALLY like the Denali EV - specifically the 4 wheel turn and tighter turning radius which is a huge deal for a truck and my wife driving the thing.
3. Midgate is awesome. love the versatility you get out of that.
4. Critical videos about Lightning battery range loss (cold weather/towing) but admittedly I dont know if the GMC will be any different.
5. At this point because GMC is limiting the reservations, I think I have a better shot of getting it sooner.
5a. No I didnt get a reservation for the GMC Denali 1 edition. I am waiting for the Sierra Denali EV reservations to open.
5b. my Ford dealer cant say where I am in the list (or won't say) but it may not matter because I just don't want it as much anymore.


The only thing I don't like about the GMC is the same horizontal screen, it's just lazy design. but the ford is no different. Oh and I dont like how the GMC looks like an EV. I dont like attention. But the 4 wheel steer and midgate are the killer apps.

The only thing keeping me from canceling lightning reservation is actually having a reservation for the GMC.

I no longer put as many miles as I used to on my older truck. An EV is most helpful to your pocket book and the climate if you use it instead of vehicle load up the miles on. I'm now considering just keeping my truck and buying something I can really drive a long way. Take a look at it. Oh and I ain't joking either.

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