Ford Lightning is the prototype of trucks that many companies have tried to imitate but failed. It has dominated the market for a few decades now. In this article, we’ll be exploring a question that has crossed many minds: does the Ford Lightning have a heat pump? But first, let’s take a step back and discuss the legacy of Ford 150 Lightning trucks, their evolution over the course of time, and how they have incorporated new technologies into them.
Lastly, we will explore whether it has a heat pump or not and how that translates into the Truck’s real-life performance. Additionally, we will also explain different types of heating mechanisms in the vehicles so users can decide which one suits them the best. Whether you are a truck enthusiast or just looking for some information, this article is going to be worth all your time!
Ford Lightning: over the years
We can divide the Ford Lightning truck series into different generations based on the technology used and the models introduced. The common theme linking all these vehicles is the use of ICE engines. Ford aimed at producing a high-performance pickup truck that could provide more speed and agility. It offered a sporty alternative to traditional work trucks.
Ford introduced the First Generation in 1993, which came loaded with a 5.4-Liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower. It immediately caught the attention of truck lovers, and Ford had to re-introduce the series in 1999, which they called the Second Generation. It had a supercharged engine with better design and aesthetics as compared to the first generation.
With the advent of electric vehicles, Ford decided to catch up with the trend, and they recently released the Ford F-150 Electric truck, the first of its kind. It is powered by an electric motor that can generate up to 563 horsepower and 775 lb.-ft torque. The towing capacity is unbelievable, at 10,000 pounds, and it can cruise for over 300 miles on a single charge.
Temperature control in the vehicles:
Temperature control is an essential aspect that customers keep in mind while opting to buy any drive. It enhances driving comfort and safety manifolds. In cold climates, a properly functioning heating system keeps the passenger cabin warm and helps prevent the windows from fogging up, providing a clear and safe view for driving.
It is equally vital in summer to keep the cabin cold and comfortable for the passengers. Without proper temperature control, driving can become uncomfortable or even dangerous. Different car manufacturers have installed different mechanisms to allow passengers to adjust the temperature according to their needs.
Ford Lightning and temperature control:
Ford F-150 Lightning truck comes with a Dual-Zone Automatic Electronic Temperature Control system which intelligently keeps the cabin temperature cozy and comfortable, depending upon the surroundings. Apart from that, drivers can also view the outside temperature on their screens, which helps them decide how often the vehicle needs a break on long-distance commutes. Front seats are heated and ventilated, which allows for comfortable seating and a beautiful drive. Passengers can control the temperature directly from the main screen.
Now let’s dive into the mechanics of the system.
Does the Ford Lightning have a heat pump?
A heat pump is a relatively newer invention in the domain of temperature control. As much as consumers would like to see a heat pump equipped in this beast of a truck, the company has decided to go against it. Unfortunately, the Ford F-150 Lightning does not have a heat pump. But what does a heat pump do? Does its absence affect the performance of the Truck? Let’s discuss all the FAQs one by one.
What is a heat pump?
Heat pump falls under the category of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system employed in vehicles for temperature control. It does not generate heat by itself. Instead, it works by transferring heat from one location to the other, either from the cabin to the environment or from the environment to the cabin.
These pumps consist of a compressor, refrigerant, and three coils. When the driver intends to heat the cabin, the compressor pumps the refrigerant through coils, which in return absorbs heat from the environment and then dissipates it into the interior. The opposite happens in the Air Condition mode. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the interior and dissipates it to the outside, with the help of energy generated and provided by the compressor. The heat pump uses a reversing valve to switch between both modes.
What benefits of a heat pump?
Heat pumps are generally more efficient than traditional heating systems because they employ electricity to transfer heat and not generate heat. They provide year-round comfort since these can be helpful for both heating and cooling the passenger cabin. These are more compatible with mild climates, as seen in most parts of the world.
What are the downsides of having a heat pump?
Heat pumps are more efficient, but this efficiency comes at a higher cost. These cost way more than traditional heating systems, which is why we usually see these systems in luxury SUVs or high-priced pickup trucks. Moreover, heat pumps require a difference in temperature gradient to pump heat from one compartment to the other.
This gradient only becomes available once the car’s engine is sufficiently heated by 20 or 30 miles of the drive. Only after that the heat pump can begin to function efficiently. Whereas a resistance-based heating system, as is present in the Ford Lightning series, is quick to act. Heat pumps also contain refrigerant fluid; therefore, they require regular maintenance to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Why did Ford go with a resistance-based heating system?
Ford F-150 lightning is an all-electric truck, which means it has no engine where combustion can take place or from where heat can be generated. Therefore, Ford has installed an electric resistance-based heating system inside the Truck to keep the passenger cabin warm. It passes the electricity generated by the battery through a series of resistors, which then dissipate this energy as heat.
Benefits:
Ford preferred using a resistance-based heating system over the heat pump due to the following principal reasons:
∙ Fast to act: Unlike the heat pump, a resistance-based heating system can start working as soon as electricity starts passing through it. It does not require a temperature gradient and is, therefore, easy to operate.
∙ Saves cost: Resistance-based systems are cheaper to install inside any vehicle since resistors have become a common part of our lives. Moreover, Ford intended to keep their Truck within the affordable price range, and adding a heat pump could have spiked up the price.
∙ Requires less maintenance: Unlike heat pumps, resistors do not have any component that would need regular service. This puts the customers at ease, and they can enjoy many thousand miles of travel before eventually needing to get one replaced.
∙ Compatible at temperature extremes: The necessity of having a temperature gradient to function also puts another barrier to the heat pump’s functionality. In extreme cold, the liquid cannot absorb any heat from the surroundings, and similarly, in scorching weather, it cannot dissipate the heat into the environment. On the contrary, a resistor only generates heat and has no role in transferring heat. This allowed Ford to create a truly formidable truck for all terrains and weather conditions.
Potential downside:
Ford could have been able to provide more range on their trucks if they had gone with the heat pumps. Heat pumps are energy efficient as well and require less energy to perform the same task as an electricity resistance-based heating system. But that would also make the Truck expensive and out of range of potential buyers.
Can drivers install aftermarket heat pumps?
Luckily, yes. Aftermarket heat pump installation is a common procedure that most drivers prefer based on what they need from their vehicles. It requires modifications to the electric and HVAC system of the vehicle, and it is advisable to get it done by professionals. The cost can vary between hundred to thousand(s) of Dollars, depending upon the make and model of the vehicle. But in general, drivers can get heat pumps installed due to following reasons:
∙ Increase the range of the vehicle: As we discussed already, heat pumps are energy efficient, and installing them might give a new life to your vehicle’s driving range.
∙ They live in milder climates: Heat pumps work perfectly fine in more temperate climates, and people who live and drive in such areas could prefer the aftermarket installation of heat pumps.
∙ They want to try new technology: Heat pumps are a new introduction in the market compared to resistance-based heating systems, which have been around for years.
Summary:
In this article, we explored whether Ford Lightning trucks come with a heat pump or not, and the answer is that Ford has opted not to use the heat pumps (for now). Instead, they have gone with the traditional resistance-based heating system. It might be an old technology, but it still works perfectly fine and is suitable for the masses. Safe, but indeed an intelligent decision by Ford!