- The update boosts charging speeds for both the 98 kWh and 131 kWh versions of the EV.
- Before the update, models with the 98 kWh pack could charge from 15-80% in 32 minutes.
- The over-the-air software changes also improve the electronic parking brake system.
Last month, Ford began rolling out an over-the-air software update to F-150 Lightning owners across the United States. While the update introduces only a few changes, one of the most notable is an improvement in DC fast charging times, something that’s bound to be welcomed by owners across the country.
Before the update, F-150 Lightning models with the standard 98 kWh battery could theoretically charge from 15-80% in about 32 minutes, while the larger 131 kWh pack took around 38 minutes for the same. Ford’s release notes for the OTA update don’t give specifics on the exact improvements, only mentioning that the “charging rate at DC fast chargers” has been increased. Thankfully, an owner has given us a clearer picture of just how much faster it charges.
Read: Ford’s Experiment In EV Distribution Hubs Is Over
The owner behind the YouTube channel State of Charge has a 2022 Ford F-150 Lighting Lariat with the 131 kWh Extended Range battery. Originally, it typically took him 44-45 minutes to charge from 10-80%. After the latest software update, the F-150 Lightning immediately pulled 500 Amps when connected to the EVgo fast charger, charging at 180 kW.
The truck now charges from 10-80% in 39 minutes and 43 seconds, shaving off 4-6 minutes compared to before. While it’s not a massive time savings, every bit counts and will certainly make charging more convenient for owners.
More Than Just Speed: Some Bug Fixes
Along with the charging improvements, Ford has also addressed a few pesky bugs. They’ve managed to eliminate some annoying false warnings on the instrument panel. Additionally, the software for the electronic parking brake has been tweaked for “more consistent performance.” While that might sound like a minor fix, let’s face it—anything that works better in an electric vehicle is a win, even if it’s just the parking brake.
Carscoops has reached out to Ford regarding the software update, seeking additional information, and will update this post when we hear back.
