2003 Ford Lightning
In its goal of creating quality pickups, the Ford Special Vehicle Team has taken
the challenge of marking the coming of a future third generation of the 'World's
Fastest Production Pickup.' It is a common knowledge to all auto enthusiasts that
the Ford SVT F-150 has long dominated the sport truck market since the introduction
of its 1993 model. Marking its way from a powerful new-product cloudburst at the
2003 North American International Auto Show, Ford specialists say about 36, 000
of these Lightning pickups will hit the road by the end of 2003. Having been constantly
improved since its introduction, the 2003 SVT Lightning has jumped into 380 horsepower
with an impressive 5.8 acceleration speed.
The SVT F-150 Lightning concept features a six-speed manual transmission, independent
rear suspension, a 500-horsepower supercharged V-8 and aluminum wheels wrapped
in hand-cut Goodyear P295/40R22 tires in front and P325/45R22 tires at the rear.
Its newest feature includes Ford's patented SuperCooler technology that cleverly
provides for the chilling of a small storage tank of coolant to 30 degrees Fahrenheit
for a denser air charge compared to the traditional intercoolers.
The SVT Lightning concept engine boasts a Lysholm, a screw-type supercharger,
paired with both an intercooler and the new SuperCooler system which makes it
harmless and environment-friendly. Inspired by the Regular Cab F-150 Flareside
model, SVT Lightning concept drips with performance character. It replaces the
two-door concept with longer front doors and fixed B-pillars. Other SVT design
cues include electro-luminescent gauges, side exhausts, clear taillights and round
foglights.
The result then is far from being merely a wheel-and-tire package but a specialized,
high-performance model. These characteristics are adapted to provide edge for
the driver. All features are combined to gauge and extend SVT Lightning's supremacy
into the future. Ford, will by no means again hit the sport truck arena with awesome
and powerful pickup trucks.
