Aug. 26, 2021—Ford Motor Co. has doubled production of its F-150 Lightning electric pickup ahead of its launch next year.

According to a report from Reuters, Ford is targeting annual production of around 80,000 units by 2024 and will be spending an additional $850 million to achieve that goal. The increase comes on the heels of a wave of strong early demand for the full-sized EV pickup. 

Sources who asked not to be identified told Reuters that Ford officials "were pleasantly surprised by the demand for the Lightning." Interest from commercial clients has been a primary driver for the surge in demand.

The ramp up to the new production goal includes a target of building about 15,000 in 2022 following the launch and 55,000 in 2023.

Ford's strategy for EV development has focused heavily on leveraging its strongest brands, and the Lightning F-150 is no exception—the gas powered version of the iconic pickup has been the top-selling vehicle in the United States for more than four decades.

Image: Ford Motor Co.