(March 31, 2023) Ford is again increasing the price of some models of its F-150 Lightning electric pickup, with the base model now starting at $61,869, including shipping— up about 50 percent over the initial starting price when the truck launched in April 2022, according to Automotive News.

The price increases come as the automaker reopens retail order banks for current reservation holders, resumes vehicle shipments and returns to full production at its Rouge Electric Vehicle Center following a February battery fire.

The automaker said the price for the Lariat standard range model will jump from $76,369 to $77,869, while the Platinum model will jump from $98,769 to $99,969. All prices include a $1,895 shipping charge. The Lightning Pro remains sold out for retail customers, Ford said, and order banks for commercial buyers will open in mid-April.

Ford said the price changes are a result of "current material costs, market factors and supply chain constraints."

The company restarted Lightning production on a limited basis earlier this month after a five-week pause as it sorted out the battery issue, which led to a recall for 18 vehicles.

Source: Automotive News