FORD TRANSIT GETS HIT BY A BOLT OF LIGHTNING - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 424

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline After Hours features Tim Reeser, CEO of Lightning Systems, discussing their electric powertrain conversions for commercial vehicles, specifically focusing on the Ford Transit. Reeser highlights the company's transition from hydraulic hybrids to full electric powertrains, emphasizing their software expertise in integrating these systems seamlessly into existing vehicle platforms. Key benefits of the electric Transit include significantly improved efficiency (66 MPG equivalent compared to 13 MPG for gasoline), quieter operation, and faster acceleration. The company offers various range options, from 50 to 250 miles (with a hydrogen fuel cell extender), and supports DC fast charging. Reeser also touches on the challenges and opportunities in the commercial EV market, including battery thermal management, infrastructure concerns, and the long adoption cycles of fleet customers. Ford's supportive, albeit hands-off, approach through their Quality Vehicle Modifier program is noted, with Lightning Systems expanding to other platforms like the E450 and transit buses.