The electric vehicle revolution has seen the emergence of electric trucks, with established and new manufacturers vying for a piece of the pie. Among them, Ford’s F-150 Lightning stands out, thanks to its legacy and features. Here’s a comparison of the F-150 Lightning with three other electric truck brands:
1. Tesla Cybertruck:
- Design: The Cybertruck’s design is futuristic and polarizing, with sharp angles and a stainless steel exoskeleton. In contrast, the F-150 Lightning retains the familiar design of its gasoline counterpart, making it more recognizable and appealing to traditional truck enthusiasts.
- Performance: Both trucks offer impressive performance figures. The Cybertruck claims a range of over 500 miles in its top variant and a towing capacity of over 14,000 lbs. The F-150 Lightning, while offering a slightly lower range of around 300 miles in its top version, boasts a commendable towing capacity and is backed by Ford’s legacy in truck engineering.
- Utility: Ford’s F-150 Lightning comes with a massive front trunk (frunk) and features like onboard generators, appealing to work-oriented consumers. The Cybertruck also offers a lockable storage space and a unique sliding tonneau cover.
2. Rivian R1T:
- Design: The R1T sports a modern design with signature “stadium” headlights and a sleek profile, while the F-150 Lightning leans into the classic F-150 design, updated for the electric age.
- Performance: Rivian’s R1T offers a range of over 400 miles with impressive off-road capabilities, making it an adventurer’s dream. The F-150 Lightning, while also offering strong performance metrics, emphasizes utility and daily usability, backed by Ford’s extensive dealer and service network.
- Utility: The R1T boasts a unique “Gear Tunnel” storage behind the cab and a full-width front trunk. The F-150 Lightning counters with its spacious frunk and Pro Power Onboard, which allows it to serve as a power source for tools and appliances.
3. GMC Hummer EV:
- Design: The Hummer EV revives the Hummer design but in a more modern and refined manner. It’s bold, big, and screams presence. The F-150 Lightning, on the other hand, opts for a more understated design language, reminiscent of its traditional F-150 lineage.
- Performance: The Hummer EV, in its top variant, claims a range of around 350 miles and boasts features like CrabWalk (sideways driving) and Extract Mode (increased ground clearance). The F-150 Lightning, while not having such niche features, provides a well-rounded performance package suitable for both work and play.
- Utility: The Hummer EV offers a MultiPro tailgate, which has six functional load configurations. The F-150 Lightning comes with Ford’s tried and tested tailgate solutions, coupled with the versatility provided by its spacious frunk and power features.
Conclusion: The Ford F-150 Lightning, with its blend of classic design, utility features, and performance, offers a compelling package for those looking for an electric truck rooted in a legacy of reliability. The Tesla Cybertruck, with its futuristic design and performance numbers, appeals to those looking for a break from the norm. The Rivian R1T is an adventurer’s companion with its off-roading capabilities, while the GMC Hummer EV is a blend of luxury and ruggedness.
Choosing between them boils down to individual preferences, brand loyalties, and specific needs. However, with the F-150’s long-standing reputation in the truck market, the Lightning has an edge in winning the trust of traditional truck buyers venturing into the electric realm.
