Lightning Systems Electric Transit Van Gains CARB Approval
The LightningElectric drivetrain for the Transit was one of the first to test under the newly released 2018 CARB efficiency and range validation test procedures for medium-duty vehicles.

The Ford Transit 350HD equipped with the zero-emissions LightningElectric drivetrain achieves 61 MPGe in the city and 66 MPGe on the highway.
Photo courtesy of Lightning Systems.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) issued an executive order for Lightning Systems’ battery-electric drivetrain package for the Ford Transit 350HD. The executive order is a required document that indicates that a product has met all requirements and can be offered for sale in California.
The LightningElectric drivetrain for the Transit is used by commercial and government fleets, and was one of the first to test under the newly released 2018 CARB efficiency and range validation test procedures for medium-duty vehicles, according to a release from Lightning Systems. CARB gave the order for the 50-mile and 100-mile range versions of the new LightningElectric for Ford Transit.
The Ford Transit 350HD equipped with the zero-emissions LightningElectric drivetrain achieves 61 MPGe in the city and 66 MPGe on the highway, according to Lightning Systems.
The 50-mile range system was rated at 54 miles all-electric range and the 100-mile range vehicle came in at exactly double at 109 miles all-electric range. Lightning Systems also recently introduced a 150-mile range model.
Lightning Electric for the Ford Transit is offered throughout the United States as part of Ford’s eQVM program, according to Lightning Systems. The product is available for Ford Transits with a 10,360-pound gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Ford’s vehicle warranty covers the base chassis for vehicles with the Lightning drivetrain. Ford QVM dealers and upfitters perform installations and service.
The batteries of the all-electric Lightning vans can be fast-charged in 30 minutes for the 50-mile version and 90 minutes for the 150-mile version, the company said. Depending on battery option and drive cycle, LightningElectric has a payload capacity of up to 4,000 pounds.
In California, the first Lightning Electric vehicles will be deployed by XPO Sales, Inc. for the LAX Wingate Hotel in Los Angeles.
Originally posted on Automotive Fleet
More Vehicle Research

Electrification Incentives: The Acquisition Windfall Fleets Can't Miss
Discover how fleets can use tax credits, grants, rebates, and vouchers to dramatically reduce electric truck and charging infrastructure costs—before today’s funding disappears.
Read More →
Top 50 Executive Fleets
It is that time of year again! Time for the 2026 list of the Top 50 Executive Fleets, presented by Automotive Fleet and Volvo as part of its annual Fleet 500. Download now to see this year's list of companies!
Read More →
Back at Star Nation for a Closer Look at Western Star Trucks and the People Behind Them
Work Truck returned to Western Star’s Star Nation Experience for another hands-on look at the trucks, technology, and operator community behind the brand.
Read More →The Top 300 Commercial Fleets
The Top 300 Commercial Fleets: See the List
Read More →
Mack Defense Receives Additional Order for 115 Heavy Dump Trucks Under U.S. Army’s M917A3 Program
The latest order of 115 Heavy Dump Trucks (HDTs) from Mack Defense for the National Guard is part of the $47-million order from the U.S. Army approved in the 2026 National Defense Appropriations Act.
Read More →
Rizon Introduces Service Combo Body, Increases Electric Truck Applications
Rizon now offers a combo service body that combines lockable storage and a spacious cargo bed in a single zero-emission vehicle. The body supports unique options including cranes, ladder racks, generators, lift gates, and work lighting for a wide range of vocational applications.
Read More →
MFTBC Establishes FUSO Academy Dubai Training Center to Strengthen Network Capabilities in Middle East & Africa
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation’s new FUSO Academy Dubai Training Center will support technical and non-technical capability development. It features enhanced training infrastructure to improve service quality, uptime, and readiness for advanced vehicle technologies.
Read More →
Paccar Updates MX-11 and MX-13 Engine Software to Enhance Customer Operations
Kenworth Truck Company and Peterbilt Motors Company will update software for vehicles equipped with Paccar MX-11 and Paccar MX-13 engines to ensure they comply with EPA guidance on diesel exhaust fluid inducements.
Read More →
GM #1 in U.S. Sales for the Second Quarter of 2026
General Motors said it was America’s #1 automaker in U.S. sales for the second quarter of 2026 with total sales of 714,896 vehicles, down 4.2%. GM led in full-size pickup and large SUV sales and reported growth in fleet sales.
Read More →


