Finally, the Tesla Cybertruck isn’t the only headline-grabbing electric truck on the road. While Tesla had the first-mover advantage and even poked fun at the F-150 by dragging it in a staged tug-of-war, karma seems to be circling back. The Ford F-150 Lightning has been debuted. Backed by decades of F-Series dominance, this all-electric pickup is giving the Cybertruck real competition, especially with buyers who value legacy, utility, and dealer support. As Lightning deliveries scale up, early reports suggest a shift in customer interest—people now want electric, but with the trust and familiarity of a Ford badge.
Finally, Ford has an answer—and it’s electric, brutal, and smart. The Ford F-150 Lightning packs serious specs that go beyond just being “eco-friendly.” It comes with dual electric motors, delivering up to 580 horsepower and a jaw-dropping 775 lb-ft of torque. That’s more twist than the F-150 Raptor, and enough to push this full-size truck from 0 to 60 mph in around 4 seconds on higher trims. With towing capacity up to 10,000 lbs and a payload limit of 2,235 lbs, the Lightning isn’t a concept—it’s a workhorse. Two battery options give you up to 320 miles of range, and fast charging adds 54 miles in just 10 minutes. This isn’t a gimmick EV, it’s built for real-world tasks.
Ford F-150 Lightning Review
Here’s a concise comparison between the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck (Dual Motor AWD) and the Ford F-150 Lightning (Lariat Extended Range)
One looks like it landed from Mars. The other feels like it was built to tow your boat to the lake this weekend. While the Cybertruck captures attention with its stainless steel shell and wild claims, the F-150 Lightning quietly gets the job done—with comfort, tech, and proper truck sensibilities. MotorTrend’s recent head-to-head test laid it all bare: when flash meets function, function still wins.
Tesla Cybertruck vs Ford F-150 Lightning Comparison
| Feature | Tesla Cybertruck | Ford F-150 Lightning |
|---|---|---|
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | 4.1 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Horsepower | 593 hp | 580 hp |
| Torque | Instant torque (exact lb-ft not specified) | 775 lb-ft |
| Curb Weight | 6,769 lbs | ~6,700 lbs |
| Handling | Four-wheel steering, but sloppy and high body roll | Composed, tighter body control |
| Braking (60-0 mph) | 125 feet | 120 feet |
| EPA Range | 340 miles (real ~300 miles) | 320 miles (real ~300 miles) |
| Efficiency (mi/kWh) | 2.0 | 2.2 |
| Towing Capacity | 11,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 2,235 lbs |
| Bed Length | 6.0 ft | 5.5 ft |
| Off-Road Capability | 16 in ground clearance, risk of damage due to sharp angles | 8.4-8.9 in ground clearance, stable on light trails |
| Interior Quality | Minimalist, cheap plastics, 18.5″ touchscreen, yoke steering | Premium materials, 15.5″ touchscreen, supportive seats |
| Ride Quality | Harsh and jittery over bumps | Smoother and quieter cabin |
| Infotainment | Large touchscreen but glitchy, no Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | SYNC 4A, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Driver Assistance | Tesla Autopilot, less intuitive | BlueCruise, smooth hands-free driving |
| Price (approx) | $85,000 (Dual Motor AWD) | $80,000 (Lariat Extended Range) |
| Cool Factor | Bold, polarizing design, futuristic | Traditional F-150 look, broadly appealing |
| Ownership Experience | Concerns about build quality & service | Strong dealer network, reliable |
Tesla Cybertruck vs Ford F-150 Lightning Ratings
Verdict: Who Should Choose Which Truck?
Tesla Cybertruck
Best for: Tech enthusiasts, performance seekers, and those wanting a bold, futuristic truck.
The Cybertruck is ideal if you prioritize raw power (4.1s 0-60 mph, 593 hp), high towing (11,000 lbs), and a unique design. It suits:
- Early adopters who love its polarizing, stainless-steel look and features like yoke steering.
- Buyers needing high towing or payload (2,500 lbs) capacity, despite limited range when towing.
- Light off-roaders with 16-inch ground clearance, though caution is needed for sharp angles.
Considerations: Its $85,000 price, harsh ride, cheap interior, and Tesla’s service concerns may deter traditional truck buyers.
Ford F-150 Lightning
Best for: Traditional truck owners, daily drivers, and work-focused buyers seeking value.
The F-150 Lightning excels in practicality, comfort, and reliability, making it perfect for:
- F-150 fans wanting a familiar, premium interior with a smooth, quiet ride for commuting or family use.
- Workers or fleets needing a frunk (14.1 cu-ft), 9.6 kW Pro Power Onboard, and stable towing (10,000 lbs).
- Buyers valuing $80,000 price for refined tech (BlueCruise, SYNC 4A) and Ford’s dealer network.
Considerations: Slightly lower towing/payload and a less flashy design may not appeal to performance or style-focused buyers.
