Given the massive popularity of pickup trucks in the United States, the race to be the best EV pickup truck will likely be very heated. Customer deliveries of the Rivian R1T and GMC Hummer EV Pickup have already started. Also, Chevy recently unveiled the Silverado EV, while Ram has plans for an electric Ram 1500. However, the Ford F-150 Lightning could top all the other models as the best electric pickup truck. 

Ford F-150 Lightning has the pedigree and brand name recognition of the best-selling F-150 and F-Series

One of the biggest reasons why the Ford F-150 Lightning could be the best electric pickup truck is pedigree. The gas-powered F-150 is the best-selling truck in the U.S. — and the Ford F-Series truck lineup takes the top spot for all vehicles. There are many reasons for the F-150’s popularity. This includes durability, reliability, high-level utility, impressive performance, a wide range of trim options, and off-road prowess. 

Also, the F-150 has a loyal following of pickup truck enthusiasts, along with a very long heritage. The Ford F-Series dates back to 1948. This brand name recognition is an enormous advantage for the F-150 Lightning.

Relatively affordable price of the Ford F-150 Lightning

Another reason why the Ford F-150 Lightning could be the best electric pickup truck is its relatively affordable price. The starting price of the 2022 F-150 Lightning is $39,974. In comparison, the starting price of the 2022 Rivian R1T is $67,500, while the 2022 GMC Hummer EV Pickup starts at $79,995.

The R1T and Hummer EV Pickup are appealing options for electric trucks. However, the vast majority of automotive shoppers can’t afford them. Their prices are well out of the financial reach of most American consumers. This is not the case with the F-150 Lightning, though. The $39,974 base price of the F-150 Lightning is actually less than the average price of a new car, which is currently $47,000, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Ford F-150 Lightning: Positive attributes of the standard F-150, plus unique features

An additional reason why the F-150 Lightning could be the best electric pickup truck is that it has many of the positive attributes of the standard F-150. On top of that, it has unique features.

For the F-150 Lightning, Ford swapped out the gas-powered engine in the standard F-150 with two powerful electric motors. The electric motors can generate up to an incredible 563 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque. On the towing front, the F-150 Lighting has a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. Its payload capacity is 2,000 pounds. The F-150 Lightning has a respectable driving range of up to 300 miles. Also, like the standard F-150, the F-150 Lightning can more than hold its own for off-road use.

One of the unique features of the F-150 Lightning is its “frunk,” or storage area at the front of the truck. Without a gasoline engine under the hood, space is freed up for storage. Also, when fitted with an extended range battery, the F-150 Lighting can power a house for up to 30 kilowatt-hours. That equates to three days when using the full battery power or 10 days when rationed. While some other EV trucks have similar features and capabilities, when you factor in its relatively low price, the F-150 Lightning offers tremendous value. 

Will the Ford F-150 Lightning be the best electric pickup truck? The competition will be fierce. However, with its pedigree, brand name recognition, relatively low price, and impressive capabilities and features, the F-150 Lightning has a good chance at rising to the top.