The big question in my mind is whether Ford can deliver in volume. If Ford pulls this off, they’ll be one of the rare companies that has navigated the Innovator’s Dilemma (in the Christensen sense). One of the key features of the Innovator’s Dilemma is that existing middle management, customers, <i>and supplier</i> relationships lock you out of disruptive technologies.<p>So far, Ford has talked a great game. I don’t think it’s the first truck that’s the challenge, though. The real challenge is doing so sustainably, at scale. I’m particularly curious about their ability to source sufficient battery packs.<p>The article was paywalled for me, so I didn’t read it. Did it discuss any of these issues?
Hi - I am the owner of this F-150 Lightning! Happy to answer any questions. I am blogging about it at <a href="https://geekyschmidt.com" rel="nofollow">https://geekyschmidt.com</a>
In Europe Ford has plans for an electric Transit with a 230 mile range. Having driven both types of vehicle I don't fully understand American's obsession with the pickups. For the same amount of footprint the Transit holds more stuff in a more secure manner, just a much more practical drive. Is off-roading that important?
I don't know how many HN deal with the construction trade, but electric trucks are going to be game-changers for tradesmen, plumbers, electricians, etc. Most hand tools are battery-powered now and being able to charge them on an unpowered job site without hauling a generator is a huge time and space saver
Tesla’s biggest advantage is that being a newcomer, they don’t have any dealers, which means they can sell direct to the consumer.<p>How the traditional car companies who are legally prevented from selling directly to the consumer and therefore have a legally imposed 10-15% cost will compete will be an interesting question.
Ten years from now I think Tesla will be more of an IP and parts company. I think the big autos distribution, manufacturing and marketing capacity will start to overwhelm Tesla. It'll probably end up making its money licensing it's tech and making specialised parts for the rest of the industry.