NEW FORD OTA UPDATE IMPROVES F-150 LIGHTNING DC FAST CHARGING TIMES

EV Channels Review

Ford has released a significant OTA update (23 b50) for 2022 and 2023 F-150 Lightning models, enhancing DC fast charging capabilities by increasing the peak current from 450 amps to 500 amps. While the update improves charging times, reducing the 10% to 80% charge from approximately 44-45 minutes to just under 40 minutes, the reviewer notes it's still not class-leading. The initial charging boost is faster, reaching 182 kW, and the subsequent charging curve shows a more gradual decline compared to the previous sharp drop. However, the reviewer expresses that a sub-30-minute 10-80% charge is still the benchmark for a truly competitive EV, suggesting Ford could push higher sustained charging rates. Despite this, the 5-minute time saving is appreciated for road trips, and the update is seen as a positive step, though it arrived late in the vehicle's lifecycle. The reviewer hopes for further improvements in future updates.