Summary
- Americans have only four options for new electric pickup trucks: Rivian R1T, Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chevrolet Silverado EV
- Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet Silverado EV are similar to each other and conventional trucks, but have significant differences
- The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST has advantages over the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, such as a larger battery, longer range, and faster charging speeds
- The Silverado EV is more expensive than the F-150 Lightning, but offers more range and power
- The F-150 Lightning has advantages in noise insulation, comfort, and payload capacity, while the Silverado EV has a bigger bed, more range, and additional features such as adjustable air suspension and GM’s Super Cruise ADAS.
Article
Americans looking for a brand-new electric pickup truck have only four options to choose from: the Rivian R1T, Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. The F-150 Lightning and Silverado EV are the most similar in design and performance compared to traditional gas-powered trucks. To compare the two, Tom Moloughney decided to pit his own 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat against a brand-new 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition. The Silverado EV boasts a massive 205-kilowatt-hour battery pack, offering a driving range of over 400 miles, compared to the F-150 Lightning’s maximum range of 320 miles.
When it comes to charging speeds, the Silverado EV outperforms the F-150 Lightning. The Chevy electric truck can draw up to 350 kilowatts from a compatible stall, while Ford’s electric pickup has a theoretical maximum charging speed of 150 kW. The Silverado EV also offers a bigger bed and a folding midgate for enhanced storage capacity. Additionally, it features adjustable air suspension, four-wheel steering, and GM’s Super Cruise advanced driving assistance system, which Ford’s BlueCruise ADAS does not yet offer automatic lane changes on the 2022 Lightning.
Price-wise, the 2025 Silverado EV is more expensive than the 2024 F-150 Lightning, but it offers more range and power. However, most F-150 Lightning trims are eligible for a $7,500 tax credit, while only one version of the Silverado EV qualifies for the federal tax credit. In terms of comfort, noise insulation, and ride quality, the F-150 Lightning is praised for being exceptional compared to the Silverado EV, which has stiffer suspension and a sportier feel. Both trucks can tow up to 10,000 pounds, but the Lightning has a higher payload capacity at 2,000 lbs compared to the Silverado EV’s 1,750 lbs.
Ultimately, the choice between the F-150 Lightning and Silverado EV depends on individual needs and preferences. The F-150 Lightning is more budget-friendly, with a smaller bed and shorter range, while the Silverado EV offers more features, range, and a higher price tag. Tom Moloughney found it difficult to choose between the two electric pickups, highlighting how closely matched they are in terms of capabilities. Overall, both the F-150 Lightning and Silverado EV offer impressive performance and features, catering to different needs in the electric truck market.
Read the full article here