Ford Mach-E and F-150 Lightning: The Electric Vehicles of the Future

The automotive landscape in the Midwest is changing, and drivers are embracing electric vehicles (EVs) more than ever. Ford is at the forefront of this exciting shift with two standout EVs, the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning. Both vehicles are designed to meet the practical needs and adventurous spirit of Iowa motorists. New EV incentives are at an all-time high, making them more accessible to a wider range of buyers and a sound financial investment. Let's look at the differences between the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning to help you decide which one is best for you. 

A Comparison of Range and Charging Options for Ford's Electric Vehicles

A key consideration for many Midwest drivers is real-world range, especially in cold weather. The Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning offer competitive ranges of 240 to 280 miles and 240 to 320 miles, respectively. In extreme winter weather, you should expect this range to drop by about 31% for the Mach-E and about 35% for the Lightning. To help compensate for this, Ford adds a standard heat pump to the Mach-E and equips its EVs with an Intelligent Range feature so you can view remaining expected miles based on real-time conditions.

Iowa's growing EV charging infrastructure currently features 352 stations in the Des Moines area, including some DC fast chargers right in Waukee. Ford's BlueOval Charge Network also provides access to over 180,000 chargers, which include Tesla Superchargers. The automaker also includes a complimentary home charger, complete with free installation, with the purchase of a new EV as part of its current Ford Power Promise promotion. 

Ford EV Interior Features That Make Every Drive More Comfortable

The Ford Mach-E and F-150 Lightning interiors are a perfect blend of comfort and advanced technology. The Mach-E and upper Lightning trims feature a 15.5-inch touchscreen with the SYNC 4A system, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The Mach-E has a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel, while the F-150 Lightning has a 12-inch screen.

Both vehicles offer comfortable seating for five passengers, and heated and ventilated front seats are available. The electric architecture allows for clever storage solutions such as the frunk, or a forward-facing trunk placed where an engine would sit in a typical gas-powered car. The Mach-E features a drainable 4.7-cubic-foot frunk, allowing it to double as a cooler, and the F-150 Lightning's massive 14.1-cubic-foot frunk even includes power outlets.

Which Ford EV Has the Right Power and Performance for Your Needs?

The choice between the Mach-E and Lightning depends on your performance needs. The Mach-E GT Performance Edition offers a sporty drive with up to 480 horsepower and 634 lb-ft of torque, and it can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

The F-150 Lightning is a true workhorse, with a standard dual-motor setup generating 452 horsepower and a powerful 775 lb-ft of torque. If you equip this electric truck with the available Extended Range battery, you'll boost horsepower to 580 and be able to tow up to 10,000 pounds. While highway towing can significantly reduce the F-150 Lightning's range, it's a great, practical option for local projects.

Ford Electric Vehicle Standard Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Both the Ford Mach-E and F-150 Lightning come equipped with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies. This comprehensive system uses radar, cameras, and sensors to monitor the road and provide an additional layer of protection. Key features include Ford's Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which provides visual and audible warnings and then applies the brakes automatically if a collision is detected.

The system also includes lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist, which gently guide your vehicle back into its lane or provide steering support to help you avoid a sudden obstacle in your path. The blind-spot information system and cross-traffic alert are also standard, alerting you with a small light on your side mirror when a vehicle is in your blind spot or approaching as you back up.

Both EVs are available with Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system for added convenience and a more relaxed driving experience. This innovative technology, which relies on advanced cameras and radar, allows you to take your hands off the steering wheel on over 130,000 miles of pre-mapped North American highways. It automatically adjusts your vehicle's speed and helps keep you centered in your lane. This advanced technology can reduce the stress of long highway drives, and it provides a more enjoyable journey for everyone in the car. Ford also offers 24/7 live support and roadside assistance specifically tailored for EVs, so you'll always have help if you need it.

Lease or Finance a Mach-E or F-150 Lightning in Waukee

Transitioning to an EV is more affordable than ever because of generous incentives. While Iowa does not offer its own statewide EV tax credit, residents are still eligible for a significant federal tax credit of up to $7,500 on a new vehicle and up to $4,000 on a used EV. You can often process this credit at the point of sale, securing an immediate and substantial discount without waiting for your tax return. 

At Stivers Ford Waukee in Waukee, we offer incredible promotions to make ownership even more accessible. Currently, you can find a special financing offer of 0% APR for 72 months on select 2025 Mach-E and F-150 Lightning models. Lease specials are also available, including a Mustang Mach-E lease for as low as $299 per month and an F-150 Lightning Flash lease as low as $399 per month, both with $0 down.

Test Drive a Ford EV at Stivers Ford Waukee in Waukee

To truly understand what makes the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning such great vehicles, get behind the wheel and try them yourself. Our staff at Stivers Ford Waukee has been serving the Des Moines area for over 35 years with a no-pressure sales environment. We have a large inventory of both vehicles on our lot, and our team is ready to help you find the perfect EV for your lifestyle without any pressure. Come visit our dealership, or give us a call at 515-987-3697 to schedule your test drive today.

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