Ford F-150 Lightning Takes Down Rivian R1T in Real-World Range Test

Both the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T are more efficient than their EPA ratings might suggest.

For those that buy and own EVs – as well as those that are still on the fence about them or even somewhat skeptical – range is one of the biggest factors – bar none. How far we can travel on a single charge is obviously a huge deal, particularly since it still takes some time to recharge those vehicles. But one thing that many don’t consider is just how far an EV will travel in real-world conditions. Just as EPA fuel economy ratings are obtained during optimal conditions, so are range ratings for EVs. And in that regard, the Ford F-150 Lightning performed quite well in a recent test by Edmunds.

The problem with many EVs (cough….Tesla) is that they’ve developed a reputation for not even coming close to achieving their official range ratings in real life, no matter how hard some have tried. In fact, these numbers often vary greatly – by as much has 30 percent or more, even in good weather conditions – which is obviously concerning.

For this particular test, Edmunds utilized a Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum, which comes standard with the extended range battery pack, giving it an estimated 300 miles of range. They headed out to the same real-world loop of road they always test EVs on, aired up to the tires to the recommended psi, and racked up 332 miles in 81-degree weather – a full 32 miles, or 10.7 percent better than the truck’s EPA estimate. It also beat out its official energy consumption rating of 51 kWh/100 miles by 11 percent by recording 45.4 kWh/100 miles.

What’s particularly impressive is that the Ford F-150 Lightning also managed to take down the Rivian R1T in this regard, as that pickup is EPA-rated to travel 314 miles on a charge, yet squeaked out 317 miles on 21-inch wheels in this same test, as well as 323 miles on smaller, 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. The Lightning also edged out the R1T in terms of energy consumption, as both Rivians came in at 47 kWh/100.

In terms of the cost of this trip, the Lightning landed at anywhere from $16.58 based on the cheapest charge rate in Washington versus $66.32, for a pricier state like Hawaii, versus a slightly higher $17.16-$68.66 for the R1T. Negligible savings for sure, but that extra bit of mileage could just make the difference between having to stop and charge and being able to do so from your own home at a cheaper rate, and that makes it a bigger deal for some.

Photos: Ford, Rivian

Join the Ford Truck Enthusiasts forums now!

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.