Ford F-150 Lightning EV: Major Dealer Incentives Signal Premium Buying Opportunity

In a notable shift within the electric vehicle market, Ford Motor Company has launched an unprecedented dealer incentive program for its F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck. This development presents a unique opportunity for consumers looking to purchase this innovative vehicle. Let us explore the details of this significant market movement and what it means for potential buyers.

The Current State of F-150 Lightning Sales

Despite an 86 percent increase in U.S. sales through September 2023, with 22,807 units delivered, Ford has taken strategic steps to balance supply and demand. The automotive giant began 2023 by reducing planned production and adjusting its workforce at the Dearborn, Michigan facility. 

Dealer Incentive Program Details

Ford has introduced a substantial dealer incentive structure from October 15 to November 15. The program offers tiered bonuses to dealers who order F-150 Lightning models from regional electric vehicle distribution centers:

• $1,000 bonus for the first nine vehicles (XLT, Flash, Lariat, or Platinum models)
• $1,500 bonus for dealers taking 10 to 15 trucks
• Maximum potential bonus of $22,500 for dealers ordering 15 trucks

Lemon Law and Ford’s Production Adjustments

Ford’s announcement that it will pause F-150 Lightning production in November, paired with these new dealer incentives, may also point to ongoing adjustments in their manufacturing process. For consumers, production pauses can sometimes mean the automaker is addressing issues that could impact vehicle quality. For example, unexpected mechanical issues or unresolved software bugs can sometimes lead to sudden adjustments in production schedules.

If you experience repeated issues with a vehicle you purchased, California’s lemon law may entitle you to a replacement or refund. At Bohloul Law, we have helped numerous clients who faced ongoing problems with their vehicles, from engine issues to faulty electronics. Ford’s production adjustments could result in quality control challenges that, if left unresolved, may qualify an affected F-150 Lightning as a lemon under state law.

What Types of Issues Could Lead to Lemon Law Claims?

For consumers who purchase the F-150 Lightning, keeping a record of any persistent issues that could potentially lead to lemon law claims is crucial. Here are a few problems commonly seen in new vehicle models that can be particularly relevant for EVs:

• Battery and charging issues: With any new electric vehicle, battery performance and charging consistency are critical. If you experience frequent charging problems, poor battery performance, or the vehicle fails to maintain a charge as expected, this could be grounds for a claim under California’s lemon law.
• Software and system malfunctions: Modern EVs like the F-150 Lightning are heavily reliant on software to manage everything from battery efficiency to driver-assist features. Repeated software malfunctions or unresolved error messages can disrupt the driving experience. Persistent software issues that impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety are valid grounds for a lemon law case.
• Mechanical or structural defects: Even with EVs, certain mechanical parts, like brakes, steering, and suspension, are critical. If your F-150 Lightning experiences mechanical failures or structural issues, it could indicate a quality control issue that qualifies the vehicle as a lemon.
• Unexpected production pauses: If Ford’s production pause is related to a significant underlying issue with the F-150 Lightning, buyers might see recalls or recommended fixes. While recalls can sometimes resolve issues, a vehicle that continues to experience problems after recall repairs may still qualify for lemon law protections.

How Bohloul Law Can Help Protect Your Rights

At Bohloul Law, we help California consumers deal with lemon issues. If you are thinking about purchasing a 2024 F-150 Lightning, here are ways we can assist:

• Evaluating your purchase and vehicle history: Our team can help you understand if your F-150 Lightning’s performance issues meet California’s Ford lemon law standards. We evaluate repair records, analyze patterns of defects, and provide legal advice on your options.
• Providing guidance on documenting issues: One of the best ways to protect your rights under lemon law is to maintain detailed records. We help clients track repairs, record interactions with dealerships, and create a history that can be used to support a lemon law claim if issues arise.
• Representing you in lemon law claims: If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, we work with Ford on your behalf to seek a replacement or a refund. California’s lemon law allows for both options, and our experience can help you secure the compensation or replacement you deserve.

Get in Touch With Us Today

If you find that your new vehicle is not meeting quality or reliability expectations, Bohloul Law, APC is here to help you explore your options and protect your rights. Contact us for a consultation and learn how we can help you secure a fair resolution.