High in the Rocky Mountains, where winter temperatures plummet and snow piles up, Ben Westby and his family are thriving off the grid thanks to their Ford F-150 Lightning. The electric truck has become indispensable, providing light and power in the remote, rugged terrain.
On a dark January evening, as a winter storm approached, Westby prepared for the harsh weather with the help of his F-150 Lightning. Positioned strategically in his driveway, the truck’s exportable power was ready to assist. “We’re at 9,000 feet of altitude with no electrical infrastructure, so everything is a bit tougher,” Westby said. “Having a propane generator is nice, but this truck is truly a game changer with its exportable power – instead of having to go to the generator, the generator comes with us.”
A Journey to Off-Grid Living
Westby’s journey to this off-grid lifestyle began after spending seven years in China as an elementary school teacher. He and his wife returned to Western Colorado, seeking a closer connection to family and a simpler life. Over the years, they have fostered 13 children and adopted two sisters, creating a family of four in their Rocky Mountain home.
“When we adopted our girls, my wife and I wanted to replicate a little bit of our Midwest upbringing,” Westby explained. “Growing up in the woods, having animals, doing hands-on work that brings you together.”
Embracing Electric Power
A passionate EV advocate, Westby transitioned from a Tesla to the F-150 Lightning in November 2023. The truck’s utility and battery benefits have proven invaluable. “We load up hay from the local feedlot and get chicken feed while doing a garbage run and having kids and everybody in the cabin,” he said. “Being off-grid in the Rockies is an extreme case for owning an EV, but we’re maximizing it. We’re absolutely loving it.”
Colorado’s Vehicle Exchange Program facilitated this transition, offering rebates for trading in internal combustion engine vehicles. Additionally, the state’s charging infrastructure supports Westby’s needs, allowing him to charge the truck at work and map out charging stations for longer trips.
Reliability and Versatility in Harsh Conditions
As temperatures drop, Westby relies on the F-150 Lightning’s Pro Power Onboard to charge essential tools like his electric snowblower and chainsaw. The Zone Lighting feature is a standout, providing essential illumination during dark winter months. “Since sunshine is in short supply during Colorado winters, I often find myself sawing, salting, and plowing in what would be the pitch dark without the help of Zone Lighting,” he noted.
Before acquiring the F-150 Lightning, Westby’s home was powered by solar energy supplemented with propane. However, the solar system wasn’t always reliable, and propane was both expensive and noisy. The truck’s power export capability has been a lifesaver during system failures, powering essential household devices.
Enhancing Family Life
The F-150 Lightning also improves family life by powering devices and games, keeping the children entertained during snowstorms. “The extra lighting is essential for evening activities,” Westby said. The kids, who previously had to assist with flashlights, now enjoy helping their dad with nighttime chores under the Zone Lighting.
Living off the grid presents challenges, but the Westby family has found the F-150 Lightning to be an indispensable tool, simplifying and enhancing their remote lifestyle. Whether preparing for winter or herding chickens in the dark, the electric truck is making a significant impact on their daily routines.
