In an unusual turn of events, a 2023 Lordstown Endurance electric pickup, with a mere 1,600 miles on its odometer, recently found a new owner through the online auction platform, Bring A Trailer. This sale is particularly noteworthy given that Lordstown Motors filed for bankruptcy two years ago, having manufactured only a handful of these Endurance models. The acquisition of this vehicle for a fraction of its initial cost presents a unique dilemma: is it an exceptional deal or a purchase fraught with potential complications?
This 2023 Lordstown Endurance was purchased for an astonishing $22,750, a price significantly lower than its original market value and less than half the cost of many entry-level electric pickups today. For this modest sum, the fortunate buyer now possesses a truck equipped with a 109-kWh battery and four independent electric motors, collectively generating an impressive 440 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. While its EPA-rated 174-mile range and 48 MPGe may not be class-leading, the vehicle comes packed with features typically found in more expensive models, including a 12.3-inch infotainment display, front and rear parking sensors, 20-inch wheels, and a six-speaker audio system. Its 5-foot-6-inch bed further enhances its practicality.
Photographic evidence suggests that both the interior and exterior of the Lordstown Endurance are in pristine condition, a testament to its minimal mileage. The truck boasts a clean Carfax report and a valid Michigan title, a rare find among the limited number of Endurance pickups that were actually registered. Initial assessments of the Endurance noted its robust ride and responsive acceleration, though the interior design was considered somewhat unrefined. Despite its straightforward cabin, the integration of software-controlled electric motors within the wheel hubs introduces a layer of complexity that could pose long-term maintenance challenges.
The recently sold Endurance is one of only 31 units that Lordstown successfully delivered before its financial collapse. While the new owner might enjoy the substantial power and features for the price, the longevity and serviceability of such a rare vehicle from a defunct manufacturer remain uncertain. Lordstown, having reorganized as Nu Ride Inc. and relocating its headquarters to New York, is currently focused on resolving its legal disputes with Foxconn, a former financial backer. This unique purchase ensures that at least one Lordstown Endurance will continue to turn heads on the road, a tangible reminder of a bold, albeit short-lived, automotive endeavor.