Ford has unveiled a retro ’70s concept electric pickup
Ford has unveiled a retro ’70s concept electric pickup
Ford has revealed a new electric pickup truck that looks like a retro futuristic dream. I don’t even drive and I’m excited.
Based on Ford’s 1978 F-100 pickup, the all-electric all-wheel drive F-100 Eluminator has 480 horsepower and features Ford Performance Parts’ Eluminator electric crate motor. Unfortunately it’s just a concept vehicle for now, so rushing to your local Ford dealer will only net you disappointment. Even so, the F-100 Eluminator is a great example of how the aesthetics of electric vehicles are being pushed forward — or technically pushed back.
“Our F-100 Eluminator concept is a preview of how we’re supporting customers as they go all-electric and embrace zero-tailpipe emissions performance, even for our heritage vehicles,” said Eric Cin, Ford’s global director of Vehicle Personalization, Accessories and Licensing.
Credit: FORD
Credit: FORD
Credit: FORD
Credit: FORD
Credit: FORD
Personally, I think the F-100 Eluminator could do with a more striking paint job — the grey is a bit drab for my tastes. But the real appeal here is getting to revel in the groovy ’70s look without tearing the ozone layer a new hole every time you start it up.
If you have a knack for mechanics and $3,900 to spare, you can buy the Eluminator motor to electrify your own vintage ride. But if you want a reproduction retro aesthetic with an electric heart fresh off the production line, you’ll just have to keep wishing and hoping for now.
Electric cars are much better for the environment than the gas guzzlers of old, but their commonly futuristic aesthetics don’t appeal to everyone. Hopefully Ford’s F-100 Eluminator will help widen our concept of what electric vehicles can be, and encourage everyone to get in on the pivot away from petrol.