In a groundbreaking move for the Australian automotive sector, AusEV, a specialist in electric vehicle, has announced a significant shipment of converted Ford F150 Lightning electric utes, specifically tailored for the Australian market.
According to their latest update, six more of these right-hand-drive (RHD) converted behemoths are set to make their way to a Queensland mine site, highlighting a growing demand for electric utility vehicles in industrial applications.
The Cost of Conversion
The conversion of these American giants doesn’t come cheap. While exact figures from AusEV haven’t been disclosed, industry estimates suggest that converting a vehicle like the F150 Lightning from left to right-hand drive, along with compliance adjustments for Australian standards, could add a significant premium to the already hefty price tag of the base model.
For context, the standard F150 Lightning retails in the U.S. starting from around $50,000 before conversion, taxes, and shipping. Here in Australia, enthusiasts and businesses might expect to pay a substantially higher price due to the conversion costs, which could easily exceed AUD $150,000 per unit, depending on specifications and additional customizations.
Ford’s Official Launch Still Pending
Interestingly, Ford has yet to officially launch the F150 Lightning in Australia. This delay has created a niche market opportunity that companies like AusEV are capitalizing on.
The absence of an official RHD model from Ford has not only spurred interest in these conversions but also reflects the pent-up demand for electric utes in Australia, particularly in sectors like mining where durability and sustainability are increasingly prioritized.
A Very Australian Transformation
What sets these converted F150 Lightnings apart isn’t just their electric powertrain but their transformation into a vehicle that speaks to the Australian ethos of rugged practicality. AusEV has partnered with Norweld, known for their robust tray and canopy solutions, to replace the standard bed of the F150 with a custom tray back.
This modification not only gives the vehicle a distinctly Australian look but also enhances its utility with features tailored for harsh conditions. These include integrated storage solutions designed to withstand the tough environment of a mine site, showcasing a blend of luxury electric vehicle technology with the practicality needed for Australian outback conditions.
Implications for the Future
The move by AusEV could be a prelude to a broader trend where electric vehicles are not just city cruisers but become staples in industries traditionally dominated by diesel engines. This initiative could pressure manufacturers like Ford to expedite official RHD versions of their electric models or encourage more local conversion operations, potentially reducing costs as the process becomes more streamlined.
As Australia continues to embrace electric vehicles, the adaptation of models like the F150 Lightning for local conditions might just pave the way for a new era in automotive versatility and environmental responsibility. With companies like AusEV leading the charge, the future looks bright, and indeed, electrifying for the Australian ute market.
This article captures the innovative spirit of AusEV’s venture, emphasizing both the economic and practical aspects of converting premium electric vehicles for the Australian market.