Electric Truck Battle: The Ford F-150 Lightning Strikes the Rivian R1T
Two electric trucks enter the arena, but only one can eave a champion. The Ford F-150 Lightning was tested against the Rivian R1T, and the results are shocking. Alright, electric truck puns aside, see how the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning and 2022 Rivian R1T compare.
TESTED: 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning vs. 2022 Rivian R1T
According to Forbes, both the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning and 2022 Rivian R1T have unique strengths and weaknesses to consider. Both trucks are a little different and don’t exactly compare apples to apples.
For example, the F-150 Lightning is built on more of a traditional body-on-frame platform and is a full-size truck, while the R1T is a midsize option with a unibody frame. This may cause people to think that the R1T has a better ride quality.
But when the trucks were tested side-by-side on the same sections of pavement, the Lightning actually provided a better performance. The R1T allows more road and wind noise to enter the cabin.
Over rougher sections of the road, the Lightning was much smoother. However, it’s worth noting that the R1T has a slightly faster acceleration.
It can reach 60 mph in about 3.0 seconds, while the F-150 Lightning takes about 4.0 seconds to get there. Also, in terms of off-roading, the Rivian R1T is more capable.
Does the F-150 Lightning or Rivian R1T have better tech?
The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning and 2022 Rivian R1T are packed with modern amenities. The F150 Lightning features a massive 15.5-inch touchscreen, and the R1T has a 15.0-inch unit. But the R1T doesn’t have physical buttons.
The tech in the Lightning is a bit more traditional and easier to use. Some of the functions in the R1T are buried under tons of menus to tap and swipe through. But the R1T has more attractive graphics.
You’ll find the Ford SYNC4A system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the Lightning, while the R1T features its own, new system. The R1T has a few bugs and lag issues to hammer out.
For now, the Lightning provides a little more functionality and seems more practical for daily use. But some drivers may prefer the simple layout in the R1T.
Is the Lightning or the R1T better for work?
Due to the size difference between the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning and the 2022 Rivian R1T, it seems a little unfair to compare them. The Lightning is longer and wider, providing more cargo capacity.
The R1T can tow up to 11,000 lbs, and the Lightning maxes out at 10,000 lbs. However, both trucks quickly lose range while towing, and charging stations don’t have the space to pull through with a trailer.
The Lightning has more space in the frunk with a lower liftover height. Plus, the smart hitch monitors tongue and payload weight to prevent overloading. But the R1T has the famous gear tunnel and an air compressor.
For getting work done, the Lightning has the Pro Power Onboard Generator and more outlets for powering tools.
Based on this comparison between the two trucks, the Rivian R1T has a more luxurious interior and is better for tackling the wild. But the Ford F-150 Lighting is larger, has a better ride quality, more practical tech, and is better equipped as a work truck.
