Ford adopted a bold strategy characterized by the principle of “go big or go home” in the launch of their Ford F150 Lightning Supertruck. This vehicle was specifically engineered to compete in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. It successfully accomplished this objective, achieving a remarkable time of 8 minutes and 53.553 seconds. Nevertheless, the path to this victory was fraught with challenges, as driver Romain Dumas encountered technical difficulties that hindered his ability to deliver optimal results.
According to Ford, the Lightning Supertruck is said to be based on the Lightning, the electric version of their pickup truck. However, there is scepticism about this claim. Industry veterans suggest that the design is more closely aligned with the 2023 Ford SuperVan 4.2. Similar to the SuperVan 4.2, the Lightning Supertruck is co-developed with STARD, an Austria-based company that specializes in electric racing and rally vehicles.
The F150 Lightning Supertruck boasts a staggering 1600 horsepower, a remarkable feat made possible by its advanced electric motors. It’s remarkable that a pickup truck can reach such an extraordinary figure; however, Ford has achieved even more astonishing accomplishments. Their previous model, the SuperVan 4.0, generated an astonishing 1973 horsepower! In this context, one might say that Ford has mastered a delicate “balance” that optimizes power while considering the overall weight of the vehicle. Equally mind-blowing are the downforce metrics; the supertruck has been engineered to produce an incredible 6000 pounds (or 2723 kg) of downforce. The force pressing this formidable truck to the ground is comparable to that of an entire Toyota Land Cruiser! Such a prodigious downforce figure was vitally important for conquering the demanding twists and turns of the Pikes Peak course, which necessitates peak aerodynamic performance. To keep the weight low, the interior has been completely stripped and constructed with carbon fiber. This high-performance truck is equipped with an FIA-grade motorsport racing seat, high-quality motorsport brakes, and a set of racing slicks designed to maintain traction on mountainous terrain.
At the illustrious 102nd Running of the Famed Hill Climb, the SuperTruck unexpectedly came to a halt, resulting in Romain Dumas losing a significant 26 seconds as he executed a full reset. In a manner reminiscent of a gamer’s instinctive reaction to a crashing PC during a high-stakes match, Dumas resumed his ascent with the prowess of a true champion—the current holder of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb record. His drive to the top step of the podium was nothing short of mesmerizing, showcasing to the spectators why he reigns supreme in the Hill Climb arena. Although Dumas managed to be the sole driver to record a sub-9-minute time, he fell short of surpassing his own remarkable record of 8 minutes and 47.682 seconds, established in the SuperVan. Unfortunately, the earlier stoppage contributed to this unforeseen disappointment. However, in a dazzling display of skill, he set a new qualifying record in the Open Class with an astonishing time of 3 minutes and 32.831 seconds!
We are truly exhilarated to anticipate further public demonstrations of the SuperTruck, as we seek to fully appreciate the groundbreaking technologies that have culminated in this extraordinary vehicle. The anticipation for next year’s Pikes Peak Hill Climb has reached unprecedented heights, following the thrilling experiences of this year. We eagerly await the opportunity to take you on this captivating journey and delve into the most enchanting automotive innovations in the industry (a legacy reminiscent of Can-Am).
