The Ford F-150 Lightning is charging into the new year as the North American Truck of the Year™. This is the latest award in the electric truck’s trophy case and marks the third straight NACTOY Truck of the Year award for Ford.
Lightning strikes, again! Planet Ford in Humble, Texas (serving Kingwood, Atascocita, Porter & greater Houston area) is excited to share that the Ford F-150 Lightning has been named North American Truck of the Year™. This is one of many awards the electric truck has in its trophy case. This is the third NACTOY Truck of the Year award in a row for Ford. It’s also the fifth NACTOY award for Ford in the past three years.
“Earning North America’s Truck of the Year is huge for the team that has been working so hard to build and deliver as many Lightnings as possible, as quickly as possible,” said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. “We’re moving fast to further ramp production to a 150,000 run rate this fall and pushing to improve every aspect of this truck. We’ve started delivering Lightnings from the factory with a fantastic new user interface update to improve the driver experience that we’ll also roll out to all of our Lightning owners over-the-air.”
Clearly consumers agree. The Ford F-150 Lightning is the best-selling electric truck in the United States since it launched in May of 2022. It has sales totaling 15,617, which helped Ford become the No. 2 EV automaker in the U.S. in 2022.
“When America’s best-selling vehicle goes electric you know the transition has momentum,” said Karl Brauer, NACTOY juror and freelance journalist for Forbes. “Ford’s effort to create an all-electric F-150 is remarkable because it combines the standard truck’s dimensions, which means it retains massive aftermarket support, with substantial upgrades to areas like storage and mobile power support. It’s really the best of all worlds, giving the F-150 Lightning a wide range of applications for both traditional and new-to-the-segment truck customers.”
In order to win the North American Truck of the Year, a vehicle must be new or substantially changed for the year. A jury of 50 professional automotive journalists from across North America selects a winner based on innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction as well as value.
North American Truck of the Year is the latest award in the F-150 Lightning trophy case. Others include MotorTrend Truck of the Year, The Car Connection Best Car to Buy, Edmunds Top Rated, Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year, Green Car Reports Best Car to Buy, TIME Top 200 Invention of 2022, 2023 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award, 2022 Altair Enlighten Award, Sobre Ruedas 2022 Awards, Wards 10 Best & Engines & Propulsion Systems, Internet Brands Best Car to Buy, Victory & Reseda Vehicle of the Year, TopGear.com 2022 American Car of the Year, Autoblog Technology of the Year 2022, Motor1 Star Awards, CarBuzz Save the Planet award and multiple Sabre awards.
Want to learn more about the Ford F-150 Lightning or any new Ford, visit Planet Ford on Hwy. 59 in Humble, Texas. You can shop online anytime at www.RandallReedsPlanetFord.com.
Winter weather and freezing temperatures are blowing into Humble and the greater Houston area. Car, truck and SUV drivers will be faced with hazardous conditions in and around Humble, Kingwood, Atascocita, Katy, Porter, Conroe, and areas surrounding Houston. To help you get prepared for your winter road adventures Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble has some winter weather wisdom to share with you for your Ford.
VEHICLE WINTER READY?
Have you had your vehicle winterized? If not, now is the time. Our team at Planet Ford on Hwy. 59 in humble will help ensure your vehicle is running right.
TIRECHECK – Many Houston-area drivers have all-season tires, which can work well for most people. For anyone facing consistent harsh winter-weather conditions, winter tires are advised.
TIRE PRESSURE & WEAR – No matter the type of tire, the wear and tear, and right tire pressure can affect traction and performance. If your tires are worn down, it may be time for new tires. When in doubt, top by Planet Ford, and we will do a complimentary tire check. With changing temps, also make sure you’re checking your tire pressure. The temp can cause pressure to quickly change.
BRAKES – During bad weather, good brakes are key to ensure you keep your distance from the other drivers. Our Planet Ford team can do a brake check to ensure you can slow your roll with no issues.
BATTERY – When temps go down, it can decrease your battery power. Plus, cooler temperatures can require more power to start your car. Make sure your car has the starting power it needs so you don’t get stranded.
WINDSHIELD WIPERS – Cold can play havoc on old rubber wipers. Check your blades to see if it’s time for new wipers or you may want to upgrade to winter wipers.
COOLING SYSTEM – When there is a big freeze, you need to make sure you have the right coolant/water ratio to protect your vehicle from potential freezing and corrosion issues.
FLUIDS FULL – Make sure to check all of your vehicle’s fluid levels, including yoru windshield wiper fluid. A single storm can exhaust your reservoir.
HOSES & BELTS – Winter weather can be the final straw for aging belts and hoses. Make sure to get them checked out so you don’t get left out in the cold.
SPARK PLUGS, WIRES & MORE – Don’t leave anything to chance. Cold weather taxes all parts of a vehicle, so if you need any element checked, our team is here to help.
INCLEMENT WEATHER & ROADWAYS
Did you know? Not factoring the snow or ice yet, AAA states that wet pavement alone contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic crashes each year. So, what does that mean when snow and ice come into the mix? Winter storms, bad weather, and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter, per research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Stay home! Best not to go out unless you have to.
Slow & distant. Not only do you need to slow down, but it’s also more important than ever to leave extra room to both start and stop.
Brake for safety. Make sure you know how your brakes work – not only in dry conditions but inclement so you react accordingly.
No cruise zone. If surfaces get slippery, it is not a good idea to use cruise control.
Fuel it up! You never know what could happen, so make sure you have at least ½ tank – or better yet – a full tank of fuel.
Pack-up power. It’s always a good idea to have a bag with essentials with you in case of an emergency. Items can include: glass scraper, umbrella, flashlight, water, blanket/warm clothing, etc. P.S. Have basic car gear for a breakdown (spare, jack, jumper cables, etc.).
TIRE CHECKS
When did you last look at your tires? Do you know if you have a good tire tread depth? Are you checking to see if they are over or under-inflated? These are all factors to big factors in whether or not your vehicle has good traction, which is especially important on a wet road. Check your car, truck or SUV’s tire pressure, including your spare, monthly. Make sure to do so when your tires are cold, and not after you’ve been on the road for a long time. When in doubt, bring them into Planet Ford in Humble to be checked out for free*.
WHOA! SLOW YOUR ROLL
This is a no brainer. When it’s icy or wet, you need to slow down. One it can help reduce your vehicles chance of hydroplaning, which can become an issue with water on the ground. AAA says with as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road, tires have to displace a gallon of water per second to keep the rubber meeting the road. So, drivers should reduce their speed to correspond to the amount of water on the roadway. At speeds as low as 35 mph, new tires can still lose some contact with the roadway. Slowing down can also allow more time to react to a situation. Which leads to another important tip, allow ample space between you and the vehicles around you. Wet weather requires more braking time and reaction time. So a little extra space can help you be in a safer place as you travel in less than desirable conditions.
SKID CONTROL
The AAA shared that no matter the experience, any driving can skin out in certain conditions. If you ever find yourself in that situation, here are quick steps the AAA list on their website:
1. Continue to look and steer in the direction in which the driver wants the car to go.
2. Avoid slamming on the brakes as this will further upset the vehicle’s balance and make it harder to control.
Yes, we know. That is easier said than done, but AAA goes on to share, “Don’t panic, and avoid slamming on the brakes to maintain control.”
You can’t control others and their actions on the road, especially on bad weather days, but you can prep, slow down and take actions to help keep yourself as safe as possible.
PLANET FORD IN HUMBLE IS HERE TO HELP!
If you need your vehicle checked out or need new tires, brakes, batteries, wipers, etc. our team would be happy to assist. If you’re simply ready for a new Ford car, truck or SUV, take the short drive on Hwy 59 in Humble. We have great specials on a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles. You can learn more about our Houston-area Ford dealership Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble, Texas.
The Ford F-150® Lightning™ pickup has been tested in extreme cold conditions. It endured months of real-world winter driving in Alaska and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Its battery has been subjected to temperatures as high as 140°F to as low as minus 40°F in Ford’s atmospheric test chambers. However, all-electric vehicles experience energy decreases in cold temperatures due to battery cell chemistry.
When temperatures go below 40°F, it can cause the electrolyte fluid to become sluggish, limiting how much power is available to discharge and how quickly the vehicle’s battery can charge. As F-150 Lightning customers across the United States and Canada begin their first winter with their new electric pickup, Ford wants to help make them aware that in low temperatures they could see a significant reduction in range, which is normal.
Quick tips to maximize F-150 Lightning range in winter include:
1. Park your F-150 Lightning in a garage whenever possible.
2. Keep your F-150 Lightning plugged in when parked.
3. Planning a longer commute? Precondition your vehicle using departure times to warm the battery while plugged-in by using the FordPass app or your trucks center screen.
4. If equipped, use the heated seats and steering wheel as primary heat to reduce energy consumed by HVAC.
5. When charging, turn off the heater if possible, or lower the temperature enough to remain comfortable. (Especially when using DCFC)
6. If your F-150 Lightning is covered with snow, remove the snow before driving to eliminate extra weight and drag.
7. Drive moderate speeds in cold temperature. high speeds use more energy.
8. Ensure your tires are at the proper pressure.
Looking for your own new Ford?
Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble is here to help. Visit the Houston area Ford dealership on Hwy. 59 or www.PlanetFord59.com.
Available early 2023. Preproduction models shown with available features. Preproduction 2023 F-350 Azure Gray (extra cost color) with optional features. Limited model available spring 2023.
Ford introduced the all-new 2023 F-Series Super Duty lineup of pickup trucks and chassis cabs. Redesigned inside and out, every Super Duty is built with unprecedented levels of work capability, ingenious new technology, and a suite of cloud-based services for new levels of productivity.
“From F-250 pickup to the F-600 utility truck, Super Duty is the badge America’s hardest-working men and women have come to trust to get the toughest jobs done,” said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. “Super Duty customers are builders – the backbone of our communities and our economy. We poured every ounce of know-how and ingenuity we have into developing the truck of their dreams – smarter, more powerful, full of clever features and technology.”
Ford Super Duty is not only the tool of choice for builders; it plays a significant economic role. Super Duty also is the preferred choice for essential industries with more than 50 percent market share in utility, mining, construction, and emergency response vehicles, according to S&P Global Mobility.
F-Series Super Duty popularity also makes it a significant economic contributor to Ford Motor Company, generating more revenue than many Fortune 500 companies, including Southwest Airlines, Marriott International or Nordstrom reported for 2021.
“Super Duty is a name that is trusted to get the job done, and our customers have helped to make it the most popular commercial truck in America, bar none,” said Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro. “With state-of-the-art technology, including a 5G modem connected to a powerful ecosystem of productivity-boosting software and services, the all-new Super Duty can seamlessly shift from workhorse to office of the future.”
A workhorse built to get things done
Super Duty is defined by its power and capability. The new Super Duty offers the broadest range of engines in the class:
New standard 6.8-liter V8 gas engine, targeting more low-end torque to make starting on steep grades and merging onto highways easier
7.3-liter V8 that is targeting the best gas horsepower and torque in the class thanks to improved air intake and tuning
A 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel that can go longer intervals between oil changes to stay on the job longer
New high-output 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel with a unique turbo, upgraded exhaust manifolds and unique tuning targeting the best horsepower and torque in the class
Every Super Duty features a Ford-designed and built 10-speed TorqShift® automatic transmission, and every chassis cab model comes standard with a power take off connection to run added equipment, like boom lifts and plows. Four-wheel drive is now standard on XLT models and above.
The new Ford Pro Upfit Integration System** (UIS) is a game changer for customers who rely on body equipment and upfits to accomplish a job, such as utility cranes or plows. This digital solution provides aftermarket equipment makers with improved access to Super Duty’s electrical system and signals to seamlessly integrate and operate their hardware into the truck’s digital displays**. Cloud-based software connects to the UIS so equipment makers can add digital buttons that allow drivers to control their equipment from inside the truck. The system also allows for high levels of customization* and safety interlocks,** like preventing the transmission from shifting into drive with a raised boom lift.
Pro Power Onboard is now available for Super Duty, featuring more exportable power than any heavy-duty pickup or chassis cab. The 2.0-kilowatts of output can power a jobsite or tailgate party. Power outlets are accessible inside the truck and cargo box, or they can be mounted on chassis cabs with a special outlet installation kit.
Not just best-in-class capabilities, but best all-around experience
Approximately 96% of heavy-duty pickup owners use their trucks to tow, and with targeted best-in-class payload††† and towing‡ for every trailer type, Super Duty ensures customers can haul with confidence.
New available driver assist technologies*** designed to simplify the towing experience and build confidence include:
Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch** that estimates cargo weight in real time and provides guidance on trailer tongue weight distribution directly on the center touchscreen, FordPass™ app or within the taillamps
360-Degree Trailer Camera System** that provides a bird’s-eye view of the trailer to make maneuvering in tight spaces easier and with virtually no blind spots
Blind Spot Information System for Fifth Wheel & Gooseneck** that can be attached to a trailer to help identify when vehicles are next to a trailer and indicate this in the side view mirrors
Industry-First Available Tailgate Down Camera and Tailgate Down Reverse Sensing System**includes a new camera and reverse sensors in the top of the tailgate that provide visual and audible alerts when the tailgate is down to make backing up to a dock or hitching a gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailer easier than ever before
Pro Trailer Hitch Assist** automatically backs the truck up and aligns the conventional hitch ball to the trailer receiver
Trailer Navigation plots routes that can be safely navigated with given trailer dimensions and weight to avoid potential issues with low bridges and tight turns
“Our goal was to leave drivers with zero blind spots, even when towing the longest trailers,” said Andrew Kernahan, Ford Super Duty chief engineer. “Camera views provide every angle, from simulating a drone to making sure customers can see behind the truck even when the tailgate is down. Hitching and towing has never been easier.”
There’s also new safety and security available technology that goes beyond camera angles:
Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering automatically brakes and accelerates to a preset speed and helps keep the truck in its lane‡‡
Trailer Theft Alert will send an alert via the FordPass app should anyone attempt to disconnect the trailer when the truck is locked
Vehicle Security, available with a Ford Pro Telematics subscription, uses sensors to monitor impact and towing events and sends alerts even when the vehicle is off***
Fleet Start Inhibit allows Ford Pro customers to schedule timeframes for when the vehicle can be started to improve confidence around fleet operations
Forward/Reverse Sensing System helps drivers by showing objects immediately in front of the vehicle and warns when objects are near the front or rear of the vehicle***§§
Front*and Rear Brake Assist helps prevent low-speed collisions to help automatically protect against hitting objects that may otherwise be hard to see***
Full-color head-up display helps keep eyes on the road by showing information right in the driver’s line of sight that changes with driving mode
Powering businesses into the digital age
The 2023 Ford Super Duty is the first pickup in the United States with embedded 5G capability. † AT&T’s high-performance 5G network can deliver faster navigation, mapping and music downloads with higher quality than 4G. Super Duty’s 5G modem from Qualcomm Technologies can also provide a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices†† to help keep workers and families connected on the go, and support Ford Power-Up software updates while driving to keep making the truck better over time.
The all-new Super Duty takes connectivity to the max with Ford Pro, the dedicated business focused on maximizing uptime, accelerating productivity, and lowering costs for commercial customers with a suite of connected vehicles, software, services, and financing.
Super Duty small to large business owners will benefit from software tools such as Ford Pro Fleet Management Software and Ford Pro Telematics, which identify maintenance needs, vehicle locations, driver behaviors, wasted idle time and more. Super Duty customers also receive access to Ford’s 650+ Commercial Vehicle Centers, network of 300+ upfitters, and expanding fleet of 700+ Mobile Service Vans, as well as Ford Pro FinSimple, which makes vehicle leasing and purchasing easy and efficient.
All-new tough and modern design inside and out
An all-new exterior includes seven new grilles engineered to maximize cooling performance while under heavy loads. Signature “C-clamp” lighting creates a wide, planted look up front while LED headlamps are now available on all trim levels. Long side vents are functional, reducing under-hood air pressure for improved aerodynamics.
Customers looking to make a statement have new STX, Sport, and Black** Appearance Packages that offer trim, wheel, and paint combinations for a bit more style. The new XL Off-Road Package available on F-250 or F-350 models with 4×4 single rear wheels adds rugged 33-inch tires, a raised air dam, water-fording axle vent tubes, skid plates and an electronic locking rear differential.
The Tremor Off-Road Package includes a front-end lift and uniquely tuned suspension, a Dana front axle with limited-slip differential and axle vent tubes, 35-inch Goodyear tires, unique 18-inch wheels, Trail Control, selectable drive modes including a rock-crawl mode and new for this year, Trail Turn Assist.
The in-cabin experience is further enhanced with:
8-inch center display that comes standard on the XL model; and a 12-inch display standard with higher trim levels
Customizable 12-inch digital instrument cluster
Four USB power ports and available wireless charging pad
Center console slot that holds a tablet upright to make using it easier when parked
Max Recline Seats that fold almost horizontal and lift the seat bottom up for a nearly flat surface to maximize comfort during downtime
640-watt, eight-speaker B&O Sound SystemTM or an optional 1,080-watt, 18-speaker B&O Unleashed Sound System by Bang & OlufsenTM for a fully-immersive audio experience
Alexa Built-in hands-free experience with complimentary connectivity to Alexa for up to three years§§§
The 2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty is proudly assembled¶ at Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake, Ohio. The all-new Ford F-Series Super Duty goes on sale in early 2023 with some features and trim series available starting in spring 2023.
###
* Based on CY 2021 total sales.
** Available spring 2023.
*** Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle.
† Connected service and features depend on AT&T network availability and compatible plan; 5G not available everywhere. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Available Wi-Fi hotspot requires separate AT&T subscription.
†† DON’T DRIVE DISTRACTED OR WHILE USING HANDHELD DEVICES. USE VOICE CONTROLS.
††† Max payload on F350 DRW Regular Cab 4×2 XL trim with gas Heavy-Duty Payload Package. Maximum payload is delivered when no additional options or accessories are added to this configuration. See label on door jamb for carrying capacity of a specific vehicle. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500lbs. GVWR.
‡ Max towing capacity rating achieve with gooseneck towing on F-450 Regular Cab with available 6.7L HO diesel engine and Max Tow Package. Max. towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500lbs. GVWR.
‡‡ Available Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control adds Speed Sign Recognition to go along with features like Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering. Once you’ve activated the feature and set your preferred speed, the system can detect and automatically adjust to speed Available Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control adds Speed Sign Recognition to go along with features like Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering. Once you’ve activated the feature and set your preferred speed, the system can detect and automatically adjust to speed limit signs along your route. This smart system can also bring the vehicle to a stop, when needed, if traffic ahead has stopped or slowed.** As soon as things clear, you’ll resume your set speed.§ And that’s not the only way it enhances your cruise control experience. The Lane Centering feature even scans lane markings to help you keep your vehicle centered between the lines.**
§ If vehicle is stopped for more than three seconds, driver must intervene and press “RES” button or accelerator pedal to resume system operation limit signs along your route. This smart system can also bring the vehicle to a stop, when needed, if traffic ahead has stopped or slowed.** As soon as things clear, you’ll resume your set speed.§ And that’s not the only way it enhances your cruise control experience. The Lane Centering feature even scans lane markings to help you keep your vehicle centered between the lines.§
§§ Backing up just got a lot less stressful. Available Reverse Brake Assist can detect both stationary and moving objects behind your vehicle – alerting you to potential hazards like garage pillars and distracted pedestrians. Not only that, it can apply the brakes if you don’t stop in time. The system can even detect vehicles crossing your path behind you at up to 37 mph.**
§§§ Access to Alexa requires an Amazon account, SYNC 4®, FordPass Connect, and complimentary Connected Service activated through the FordPass App (see FordPass Terms for details). Eligible Ford vehicles receive three years of access to Alexa Built-in and 30-days of complimentary streaming media services that begin on the new vehicle warranty start date, after which fees apply. See your Ford account for information. Connected service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply. Amazon, Alexa and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
¶ Assembled in the USA with foreign and domestic parts.
Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble, located 19000 Eastex Fwy, Humble, TX 77338, is proud to be one of the area drop-off sites and businesses supporting Humble ISD, Humble Education Foundation, and our students.
Our students, teachers and school staff already have so much to think about, they shouldn’t have to worry about school supplies, too. To help alleviate that, we are joining forces with the schools and our community.
Randall Reed’s Planet Ford is excited about the 2023 F-150 Heritage Edition introduced to celebrate 75 years of F-Series trucks. It is a modern take on the timeless 1970s and ’80s two-tone exterior paint offerings featuring the classic style combined with the outstanding durability, capability and technology today’s F-150 customers love.
Available on XLT series F-150 trucks, the design represents a fresh interpretation of the classic A-B-A exterior paint pattern, with an A color encompassing roof and pillars, a B color for the midsection, then A repeating on bumpers, lower door and lower body.
Interior offerings in slate gray and black complement the expressive exteriors. Distinct seat trim covers featuring unique inserts, plus embossing on the console lid further enhance the uniqueness of the Heritage design. A white “75 Years” logo appears in the upper center windshield and is included in the center screen startup animation and on the center console.
Five color options are available:
Race Red midsection, with upper and lower Carbonized Gray
Atlas Blue midsection, with upper and lower Agate Black
Antimatter Blue midsection, with upper and lower Carbonized Gray
Avalanche midsection, with upper and lower Agate Black
Area 51 midsection, with upper and lower Agate Black
Pricing will be available when order banks for the 2023 F-150 Heritage Edition open mid-July, with production starting this fall.
To celebrate 75 years of F-Series trucks, Ford introduces the 2023 F-150 Heritage Edition – a modern take on the timeless 1970s and ’80s two-tone exterior paint offerings featuring the classic style combined with the outstanding durability, capability and technology today’s F-150 customers love.
Available on XLT series F-150 trucks, the design represents a fresh interpretation of the classic A-B-A exterior paint pattern, with an A color encompassing roof and pillars, a B color for the midsection, then A repeating on bumpers, lower door and lower body.
Interior offerings in slate gray and black complement the expressive exteriors. Distinct seat trim covers featuring unique inserts, plus embossing on the console lid further enhance the uniqueness of the Heritage design. A white “75 Years” logo appears in the upper center windshield and is included in the center screen startup animation and on the center console.
Five color options are available:
Race Red midsection, with upper and lower Carbonized Gray
Atlas Blue midsection, with upper and lower Agate Black
Antimatter Blue midsection, with upper and lower Carbonized Gray
Avalanche midsection, with upper and lower Agate Black
Area 51 midsection, with upper and lower Agate Black
Pricing will be available when order banks for the 2023 F-150 Heritage Edition open mid-July, with production starting this fall.
Looking for another great reason to buy a Ford electric (EV) or Hybrid card, truck or SUV? According to Texas Electric Transportation Resources Alliance (txetra.org/incentives), the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP) offers a $2500 Rebate for the purchase or lease of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle.
The site states: These apply retroactively for vehicles purchased or leased on or after September 1, 2021
There are 2,000 rebates available and they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications will be accepted until the rebates are depleted – or January 7, 2023, whichever occurs first.
Eligible vehicles are listed here. (Automakers without dealerships in Texas are currently excluded from the program.)
Instructions on how to apply and the forms you will need arehere. Per the alliance:
Form 2 has to be signed by a representative of the dealership, from which you acquired the vehicle. Get this done when you purchase/lease the vehicle!!! (If you are working with a dealer I have trained, they should have copies of the forms waiting for you.)
You will have to provide a copy of the vehicle title, if you are applying retroactively. If you are in the process of buying/leasing the vehicle, the dealership should provide you with a copy of the Application for Texas Title and Registration.
There are other documents you will need to provide, but those are normally given to you at time of purchase (like the financing contract). If you paid cash, you’ll need a copy of the check. Make sure you include everything required by using the checklist in the form set.
Additional Energizing Information You Can Use:
The Feds Offer a $7500 EV Tax Credit for qualified EV and Hybrid vehicles. Find out more below:
Austin Energy offers a EV360 Pilot Program for EV charging with reduced off-peak rates from 7 p.m.-2 p.m. on weekdays, and anytime on weekends. The lowest rates offered are $30/month. There is a one-time enrollment fee of $150.
Some utilities offer incentives for EV Owners. – Call and inquire. For instance,: Austin Energy offers PEV owners arebate of 50% of the cost to purchase and install a Level 2 charging station, up to $1,500. Multi-family properties are also eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of the cost to install an approved Level 2 charging station.
Insurance Impact?
Some Texas insurance companies may offer discounts on EVs. Make sure to ask your agent if your vehicle is elegible under your plan!
*Rebate offered via TCEQ. See txetra.org for rebate application, incentive, tax credit details. Contact your tax professional re: tax-incentive related information. Ends 1/7/23.
Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble, Texas is excited to share the launch of the all-new, electric F-150 Lightning pickup – a milestone moment in America’s shift to electric vehicles.
F-150 Lightning trucks are now being built for customers across America. F-150 Lightning is the fastest-accelerating F-150 yet and the only full-size electric pickup available now with a starting price less than $40,000.
Built at the ultra-modern Rouge Electric Vehicle Center within Ford’s historic Rouge Complex, F-150 Lightning is the only electric vehicle that is Built Ford Tough. Ford F-Series has been America’s best-selling truck for 45 years in a row[1] and is second only to the iPhone in revenue among all American consumer products, according to a 2020 study.
“Today we celebrate the Model T moment for the 21st Century at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center,” said Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford. “The Rouge is where Ford perfected the moving assembly line, making it a fitting backdrop as we make history again. The stunning anticipation for F-150 Lightning is a credit to the work of our Ford engineers and designers, and the UAW team members who are building these trucks with pride.”
Ford has unprecedented demand for F-150 Lightning with 200,000 reservations and is expanding the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center to ramp up production to a planned annual run rate of 150,000 in 2023. The company has invested a total of $950 million and created 750 jobs at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center. Ford’s investment in Michigan for F-150 Lightning alone now totals more than $1 billion, with 1,700 recently created jobs spread among five Ford plants in the state, including Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center, where Lightning electric motors and electric transaxles are assembled, and Rawsonville Components Plant, where Lightning batteries are assembled.
“America’s real transition to electric vehicles starts now,” said Ford President and CEO Jim Farley. “F-150 Lightning is just the beginning of our ambitions for growth and leadership in digital, electric vehicles. We continue to expand our EV manufacturing footprint across the U.S., including the start of site preparation at BlueOval City, which will enable us to meet the ever-increasing customer demand for our exciting EV line-up.”
Ford is on track to deliver more than 2 million electric vehicles annually by 2026, equal to about one-third of the company’s global volume, on the way to 50% by 2030.
With acceleration from zero to 60 mph in the mid-4 second range with the extended-range battery, the freedom of a 10-kilowatt smart power plant on wheels, a starting price less than $40,000 before available tax credits and software updates that will make it even better over time, F-150 Lightning is attracting new customers to Ford. A full three-quarters of reservation holders do not currently own or lease a Ford vehicle. F-150 Lightning is also converting many of them to first-time truck or electric vehicle buyers.
Harnessing a century of manufacturing mastery for an electric pickup Ford announced its intention to build the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center at its historic Rouge complex 19 months ago, in September 2020, and has since created an ultra-modern site leveraging more than 118 years of expertise in manufacturing at scale.
Ford remains the top automaker in America in terms of U.S. production, sales of U.S.-made vehicles and employment of hourly autoworkers.[2]
“For UAW Ford members, the launch of the Lightning F-150 is an example that when electric vehicle expansion is done right, it can create good paying union jobs and opportunities,” said UAW President Ray Curry. “Today’s launch demonstrates that we can create a win-win for UAW families and communities as we build EV products for decades to come.”
The manufacturing technology in the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center is just as innovative as the F-150 Lightning. It is the first Ford plant without traditional in-floor conveyor lines and instead uses robotic Autonomous Guided Vehicles to move F-150 Lightning trucks from workstation to station in the plant.
These Autonomous Guided Vehicles create more flexibility in the plant for additional production output, quality checks and product customizations, among other benefits. And changes can be made quickly without the constraints of a typical line that requires the installation of floor chains, moving mats, conveyors and overhead cranes. The plant also uses cobots, or collaborative robots, that work side-by-side with people without any safety cages needed. These cobots help with tasks that would be ergonomically challenging for employees, while also keeping employees safe.
“Today UAW members begin a new generation of building the iconic F-150, crafting a game-changing electric vehicle backed by our UAW craftsmanship and quality assembly,” said Chuck Browning, UAW vice president, director, Ford Department. “Our members are proud of building Ford Tough and are excited to build this new Lightning EV with the same UAW care and legendary performance Ford customers have grown to expect.”
The Rouge Electric Vehicle Center is a zero-waste-to-landfill site, meaning none of the material generated as a by-product of the manufacturing process will go to landfills. The plant was built on the former Dearborn Assembly Plant site, using materials from the prior plant in the foundation.
Ford is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and to using 100% local, renewable electricity in all of its manufacturing operations by 2035.
The smartest, most innovative F-150 that Ford has ever built America’s favorite vehicle for 36 years straight is revolutionizing what it means to go electric.
For the first time, a full-size pickup provides cavernous lockable storage to store 400 liters of cargo out of sight. This Mega Power Frunk doubles as a cooler – washable and drainable – with lighting to see in the dark. It also has 2.4 kW of exportable power. Combined with the power available from the 5.5-foot bed and cab, it brings the truck’s Pro Power Onboard total to up to 9.6 kW from 11 power points.
At home, F-150 Lightning, together with a home integration system, can power a house during an outage for three days[3] and in time will be able to offer power back to the grid. It can charge other electric vehicles so no one is left stranded.
“It’s not every day that you get to launch a truck that will change the way Americans feel about electric vehicles,” said Linda Zhang, F-150 Lightning chief program engineer. “The team has done a phenomenal job ensuring we are offering customers unique features only made possible by the electric power unit. But it’s the drive experience that will blow people’s minds. It is simply effortless.”
F-150 Lightning accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in the mid-4-second range with the extended-range battery, making it the fastest-accelerating F-150 yet. Its planted ride ensures a ride and handling experience not usually felt by a truck driver. It also has the most torque of any F-150 ever (at 775 lbs.-ft.) and because it’s almost instantaneous, offers effortless towing.
Ford offers F-150 Lightning owners an optional BlueCruise hands-free driving experience on more than 130,000 miles of prequalified divided highways across the U.S. and Canada. F-150 Lightning will stay up to date and constantly improve through over-the-air software updates, called Ford Power-Ups.
F-150 Lightning is a zero-emissions vehicle with as much as 320 EPA-estimated miles of range. Lightning customers have access to the BlueOval Charge Network, the largest public charging network in North America offered by automotive manufacturers.
Home charging is straightforward with installation partner Sunrun. Extended-range battery customers with an 80 amp Connected Charge Station Pro can get a full charge overnight on AC power with dual on-board chargers. Customers may also have the opportunity to install solar energy – enabling them to power both their home and charge their truck with clean, renewable energy.
F-150 Lightning Pro is the first electric F-Series truck purpose-built specifically for commercial customers. F-150 Lightning Pro is offered through Ford Pro, a one-stop shop for commercial and government customers with a range of conventional and electric vehicles and a full suite of software, charging, financing, services and support on Ford and non-Ford products. F-150 Lightning Pro is backed with turnkey solutions for commercial operations, and Ford predicts commercial customers’ cost savings will begin from day one.
To learn more about the electric 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning pickup, visit www.PlanetFord59.com.
[1] Based on 1977-2021 calendar year total sales
[2] Ford assembles more vehicles in the U.S. than any other manufacturer based on S&P Global Mobility CYE 2021 US Light Vehicle Production data. Ford is No. 1 among high-volume automakers in American-assembled percent of American sales based on Ford’s analysis of S&P Global Mobility CYE 2021 Light Vehicle Production data. High volume manufacturers produce 500,000 units or more in a calendar year. Ford employs about 56,000 hourly workers in the U.S., more than any other automaker, based on Center for Automotive Research data.
[3] When home is properly equipped and home transfer switch disconnects home from the grid. Based on 30 kWh use per day using the F-150 Lightning with the extended-range battery. Results may vary depending on energy usage.
Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble, Texas, and World Class Automotive Group are making history… again! For the 10th consecutive time, Planet Ford in Humble on Hwy. 59 has earned Ford’s highest honor, the Triple Crown, among a myriad of other accolades for 2021. In addition, Ford Motor Company announced that the Planet Ford dealership family has repeated a historic winning year — every Planet Ford location in Texas has earned the manufacturer’s top honor.
When it was first time announced in 2018, it was an unprecedented event for an independent Ford dealer to earn this award at every single location within the same year. After earning it four times over for 2017, the Reed family of dealerships earned quadruple triple crowns, again, for 2021.
According to Ford, only 36 dealerships nationwide won the Ford Triple Crown. Randall Reed’s family of Ford dealership won four in a single year out of approximately 3,000 Ford dealerships.
“When our amazing team first achieved this accomplishment, it was said to be a billion to one odds chance of it happening. Now, our Planet Ford locations have done it twice,” said Randall Reed, owner of World Class Automotive Group.
Ford’s Triple Crown recognizes the best of the best. To receive the highly sought-after Triple Crown, each dealership had to receive all of Ford’s top awards, which include the President’s Award for customer service; One Ford Elite for excellence in Sales, Service or Parts; and the Ford Customer Service Premier Club. All of the World Class Automotive dealerships, including Bill Fick Ford in Huntsville, Texas, have garnered the Ford President’s Award, year after year.
“For over 30 years, our family has proudly served our community always treating our customers like one of our own family members,” said Shelby Reed, President of World Class Automotive Group. “Our team not only works hard to meet our customers’ every auto need, they care that our customers are happy and totally satisfied.”
While this is the second time the dealerships have won the honor simultaneously, it’s the 10th consecutive Triple Crown for Planet Ford in Humble, the ninth honor for Planet Ford 635 in Garland, the sixth for Planet Ford in Spring, and the third for Planet Ford Dallas Love Field.
Sherry Reed, co-owner of World Class Automotive Group agrees, “We’re thankful that our customers trust us with their auto needs. Helping people and making them happy is what our dealerships are all about.”
For award-winning sales, service, parts, aftermarket or body shop/collision center repair, visit Planet Ford in Humble (serving greater Houston, Atascocita, Kingwood, Katy, Conroe and surrounding areas) on Hwy. 59 or online at PlanetFord59.com.
Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Humble, Texas has had a lot of questions about the new Ford F-150 Lightning — and even more about the frunk. First — a question for you. When does a cardboard box help transform a trunk into a frunk? When Ford gives cardboard a new lease on life after being recruited by Ford to help develop a new feature known as the Mega Power Frunk. The all-electric 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup’s new front trunk or, as it’s known in industry-speak “frunk” is the largest in the truck industry – with 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet) of cargo space and maximum payload capacity of 400 pounds.1
“The F-150 Lightning pickup’s Mega Power Frunk is one of those features that reshape what vehicles can provide for customers. Its sheer size, ample power supply, drainable floor and open and close system that opens with the touch of a button make it frunking awesome!” said Linda Zhang, F-150 Lightning Chief Program Engineer.
something that many don’t know is that this spacious and dynamic space began life as a simple cardboard box with a cutout front door and a liftable hood.
All About the Customer’s Needs
It began back in February 2018 with Team Edison – Ford’s dedicated battery electric vehicles incubator that incorporates close collaboration between different teams to find solutions to customer needs. A small group of young user experience designers set out to California, where they sat down with actual Ford truck and fleet customers to talk about how they might use such a feature. The prototype, made of cardboard for simplicity and cost and built-in about a day using scissors and hot glue, was brought to every meeting to help customers visualize the opportunity.
In the studio, Greg Ardisana, design strategy director, passenger vehicles, and other Team Edison research members worked as consultants alongside engineering and design whenever they had customer use questions, which led to a close-knit collaboration between groups.
“Since the frunk was a new space, all the truck customers we interacted with got really excited about what it could be and what use they could get out of it in their daily lives,” said Ardisana. “We needed to take what they wanted and find a way to deliver on it.”
Truck customers imagined fitting not one, but two golf bags, even when it wasn’t a golf day. The additional permanent storage keeps valuables out of sight, is lockable and secure. Fleet owners saw their crews using the space to haul bags of concrete and charge their electric tools at construction sites. Customers also wanted lights to see at night, electric outlets, a work surface, and optimized access height to make the space truly usable. All of these valuable insights were derived from a simple piece of cardboard.
An asymmetrical frunk for two golf bags
There were challenges. Due to cargo volume numbers provided by vehicle architecture engineers, the first was the size of the frunk. It had to fit two golf bags, but this meant sacrificing a symmetrical frunk design.
The team treated it like a cooler box that needed to be durable and easy to clean, and have a rubberized floor with anti-slide properties. Once the frunk fit the main shell, finding ways to add all of the features on the customer wish list was the next hurdle.
Lighting & power
Lighting began as typical trunk lighting. It was functional, but the “wow” factor was missing. So the team pivoted and installed truck bed lamps in the frunk hood. The lamps offered a lighting source on the inner side of the hood, which prevented cargo from blocking lights and did away with unwanted glare and shadowing of the load area.
Four electrical outlets and two USB chargers were added to provide versatility for work and play. 2.4 kilowatts of power are available for everything from TVs to laptops, speakers to crockpots, power tools and other devices.
Accessible, drainable and opening & closing with ease
Lastly, access to lift and remove objects from the frunk had to be waist-height, as customers did not want to have to reach over the truck’s bed rails for their equipment. The waterfall grille was integrated into the hood by the engineering and design teams who were able to create an accessibility height that is similar to the rear cargo area of a Ford Expedition. The Mega Power Frunk has a powered open and close system also with six different ways to open it, including from your phone on the FordPass app as well as through an integrated push button on the grille2.
Once the frunk is open, customers can fill it with ice and drinks to “frunkgate” it, since it’s water-resistant, cleanable and has a drainable floor.
Steve McInally, frunk feature supervisor, said the team explored every detail as an opportunity. “We put the customer first in every decision we made and were able to deliver on a Mega Power Frunk,” he said. “And it’s going to blow people’s minds.” The 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup will be available starting Spring 2022.
To learn more, contact Planet Ford in Humble on Hwy. 59 (serving Porter Kingwood, Atascocita, Conroe, Houston, Katy areas). Shop online at PlanetFord59.com.
1Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
2FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
