Tesla Cybertruck vs. Ford F-150: Differences & Comparisons
We break down the differences between Tesla's new Cybertruck and Ford's F-150 Lightning. See how they stack up when it comes to performance, powertrain, comfort, and more.
The EV pickup truck market has witnessed a significant shift in recent years, with the highly anticipated release of the Tesla Cybertruck. The Cybertruck is now a formidable contender in the pickup truck segment, alongside the well-established Ford F-150 Lightning. With its unconventional design and cutting-edge technology, the Cybertruck has garnered attention from both Tesla fans and skeptics. On the other hand, the F-150 Lightning builds upon the legacy of America’s best-selling pickup truck.
As we gear up for a showdown between two electric powerhouses, we closely analyze the differences and similarities between the Tesla Cybertruck and the Ford F-150 Lightning. We hope this Cybertruck vs. F150 comparison will help you make informed decisions as we enter an exciting era of electric pickup trucks.
Cybertruck vs. F150: Powertrain
The Tesla Cybertruck and Ford F-150 Lightning have different powertrain options. The entry-level version of the Cybertruck, which has a single-motor rear-wheel drive, is expected to be available next year. Currently, the Cybertruck comes with all-wheel drive and two or three electric motors. The dual-motor setup produces 600 horsepower, while the tri-motor variant, dubbed the “Cyberbeast,” produces 845 horsepower.
In comparison, the F-150 Lightning features standard all-wheel drive and dual electric motors, which generate 452 or 580 horsepower, depending on the battery size. The F-150 also offers 775 pound-feet of torque. While the torque figures for the Cybertruck are not disclosed, both electric vehicles provide impressive power for their respective segments.
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Cybertruck vs. F150: Performance
According to acceleration tests conducted by MotorTrend, the dual-motor Cybertruck can reach 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, while the F-150 Lightning takes 4.1 seconds to achieve the same speed. Moreover, the Cybertruck displays its impressive power in quarter-mile runs as well, finishing in just 12.4 seconds with a trap speed of 110.3 mph, while the F-150 takes 12.8 seconds and reaches a speed of 106.0 mph.
The F-150 Lightning and the Cybertruck have similar braking performance, with the F-150 Lightning stopping from 60 mph in 123 feet. However, there is some inconsistency in subsequent stops, with the truck experiencing some dives. The Cybertruck, on the other hand, has a slightly longer braking distance of 126 feet but maintains excellent body control and consistency. Overall, both electric vehicles demonstrate impressive performance capabilities in their respective segments.
Cybertruck vs. F150: Driving Range and Charging
According to the official specs, both the Cybertruck and F-150 Lightning have a range of over 300 miles, but in many real-world tests, the Cybertruck slightly outperforms the F-150. However, the Cybertruck’s actual range falls short of the 500 miles advertised during its reveal. During the 70-mph Road-Trip Range test, which uses 95 percent of a full charge, the Cybertruck managed to cover 224 miles, while the F-150 Lightning closely followed with 222 miles.
Charging-wise, the Cybertruck’s battery can be quickly preconditioned, allowing it to receive 250 kW of power within a minute of plugging into a Supercharger. This results in the Cybertruck gaining the most range among the three electric vehicles after a 15-minute charge. However, the Cybertruck is currently incompatible with CCS stations, limiting its charging options compared to the F-150 Lightning. The latter can use an adapter to access most Superchargers.
If Ford improves the Lightning’s in-car route planner to avoid slow or unreliable stations, it could gain a significant advantage over the Cybertruck in terms of charging convenience.
TESLA CYBERTRUCK INTERIOR FEATURES
We discuss the Tesla Cybertruck interior features and everything else you need to know. Let’s take a look.
Cybertruck vs. F150: Towing and Hauling
The Cybertruck’s maximum towing capacity is 11,000 pounds, exceeding the F-150 Lightning’s limit of 10,000 pounds. However, the F-150’s towing capacity drops to 7,700 pounds on models with the standard-range battery. Similarly, the upcoming rear-wheel-drive Cybertruck’s towing capacity is limited to 7,500 pounds.
When it comes to payload, the Cybertruck takes the lead, with every configuration capable of hauling up to 2,500 pounds. The F-150 Lightning’s payload capacity peaks at 2,235 pounds but drops to 1,952 pounds when opting for the larger battery. It’s worth noting that the Cybertruck’s payload capacity may be lower on models equipped with the range-extender battery, as it takes up significant space in the bed and affects the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
Cybertruck vs. F150: Comfort and Convenience
The Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum knocks down the interior comfort through premium materials like leather and wood. The vehicle is equipped with various creature comforts, such as multi-adjustable heated and cooled seats, parking sensors, and the BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system.
On the other hand, and hardly surprisingly, the Tesla Cybertruck takes a more futuristic and minimalist (albeit spartan) approach to its interior design. The cabin features bright white upholstery with LED accent lighting, giving way to a modern, high-tech cabin ambiance. Although the rear bench seat provides lateral support for the middle passenger, the overall seating is firmer than the F-150 Lightning’s plush accommodations.
The Cybertruck and F-150 Lightning offer different options for infotainment and connectivity. In the Cybertruck, rear-seat passengers have access to their own screens, which provides a unique experience. Moreover, Tesla’s Premium Connectivity package enables video and music streaming, Caraoke, and internet browsing, contingent on cellular LTE signal availability. On the other hand, the F-150 Lightning has a screen with several games to keep front occupants engaged during charging sessions.
RIVIAN VS. CYBERTRUCK: DIFFERENCES & COMPARISONS
We will delve into the differences and similarities between the Rivian vs. Cybertruck by providing a comprehensive comparison to help you navigate your way into this new age of electric pickups.
Cybertruck vs. F150: Price
When comparing the prices of the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck, it becomes clear that the F-150 Lightning is the more affordable electric truck. The F-150 Lightning Pro, with a standard battery, targets tradespeople and starts at $52,090. On the other hand, the Cybertruck’s entry-level RWD model, priced at $60,990, will not be available until later this year.
Starting at $79,990, the AWD Cybertruck is available in two variants. The top-tier Cyberbeast model begins at $99,990, excluding the mandatory destination fee. On the other hand, the F-150 Lightning offers a broader range of options for different budgets and preferences. The XLT model starts at $59,590, while the Platinum model is priced at $92,090.
So, which electric pickup truck is more compelling for you?
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