
The electric pickup truck market is dynamically evolving, with two titans leading the charge: the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck. These aren’t just vehicles; they represent distinct visions for the future of utility and performance. While both promise formidable capabilities, they pursue profoundly different philosophies, creating a captivating head-to-head battle that’s reshaping consumer expectations. It’s a compelling clash of tradition versus revolution, practicality versus audacious innovation.
Edmunds’ car experts rigorously tested both contenders to determine which stands as the better all-around truck. Their comprehensive analysis delves into every facet, from aesthetics to crucial safety metrics, offering a nuanced comparison beyond simple horsepower figures. As we dissect their strengths and unexpected weaknesses, one particular Ford F-150 Lightning feature emerges as a true marvel, a practical innovation poised to stun even ardent Tesla Cybertruck owners.
This in-depth exploration will unpack twelve pivotal areas where these electric giants diverge and converge. We’ll provide a data-driven and analytical look at their performance, technology, value, and safety, understanding not just *what* these trucks offer, but *why* their differences profoundly matter to you and the broader industry landscape.

1. **Design and Aesthetics: Classic vs. Futuristic**The visual identities of the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck are diametrically opposed, setting the stage for a fundamental choice based on personal taste. The F-150 Lightning retains classic F-150 design elements, appealing to traditional pickup buyers seeking familiar aesthetics with modern electric enhancements. Sharing body panels with its gasoline counterpart, it projects robust reliability. Its interior mirrors the conventional F-150 layout, offering a spacious cabin with advanced technology but preserving ergonomic comfort and straightforward functionality.
In stark contrast, the Tesla Cybertruck embraces a futuristic design, characterized by sharp angles and a stainless-steel exoskeleton. Its unconventional look is undeniably polarizing, attracting those interested in cutting-edge aesthetics and a vehicle that makes an unequivocal statement. It’s a rolling sculpture of future-forward engineering, appealing directly to early adopters and tech enthusiasts seeking bold, distinctive design.
The Cybertruck’s interior continues this minimalist, avant-garde theme. The traditional dashboard gives way to simplicity, with an enormous 18.5-inch touchscreen serving as the singular control hub for virtually all vehicle functions. This design choice underscores Tesla’s commitment to innovation and digital integration, prioritizing a sleek, uncluttered environment that feels more akin to a spaceship cockpit than a conventional pickup.
Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE SEL 2.4
Name: Ford F-150 Lightning
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Related: Ford F-Series (fourteenth generation)
Assembly: Dearborn, Michigan
ModelYears: 2022–present
Production: April 2022 – present
Layout: Dual-motor, four-wheel-drive
Platform: Ford T platform#T3
Class: Pickup truck
Sp: us
Battery: lithium-ion
Motor: permanent magnet motor
ElectricRange: Unbulleted list
Abbr: on (extended battery)
Powerout: Unbulleted list
Charging: Unbulleted list
Designer: Unbulleted list
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from June 2022
Summary: The Ford F-150 Lightning is a battery electric full-size light duty truck unveiled by the Ford Motor Company in May 2021 as part of the fourteenth generation Ford F-Series. Four models have been announced, and all models initially will be dual-motor, four-wheel-drive, with EPA range estimates of 240–320 mi (390–510 km). A commercial-grade version of the all-wheel drive (AWD) truck is sold in the United States, with higher-power/trim/range models also sold. The F-150 Lightning began production on April 26, 2022.
Get more information about: Ford F-150 Lightning
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: F-150 Lightning
Price: $21,499 Mileage: 18,514 mi.

2. **Power and Acceleration: Raw Force vs. Refined Delivery**When it comes to raw power and exhilarating acceleration, both the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck redefine pickup expectations. Tesla offers two Cybertruck versions: the All-Wheel Drive model with 600 horsepower, and the Cyberbeast unleashing 845 horsepower, rocketing from 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 2.6 seconds – figures typically associated with sports cars.
The F-150 Lightning, while traditional in aesthetic, doesn’t lack power. The standard-range pack delivers 452 horsepower, boosting to 580 horsepower with the extended-range battery. Equipped with dual electric motors, the Lightning delivers robust torque, cementing its status as the fastest production F-150 to date, a testament to Ford’s electric engineering prowess.
Interestingly, Edmunds’ rigorous testing revealed a striking parity in real-world performance. Both the All-Wheel Drive Cybertruck and the upgraded, extended-range Lightning accelerated from zero to 60 mph in a blistering 4 seconds flat. This similarity demonstrates that despite differing peak power figures, both trucks offer a remarkably similar, instant-torque, and thrilling driving experience, ensuring buyers won’t sacrifice acceleration.
Car Model Information: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive
Name: Tesla Cybertruck
Caption: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, Foundation Series
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: November 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: Austin, Texas
Designer: unbulleted list
Class: Pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (15:1 ratio)
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: Unbulleted indent list
Sp: us
Charging: unbulleted list
Battery: val
Motor: unbulleted indent list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Tesla Cybertruck is a battery-electric full-size pickup truck manufactured by Tesla, Inc. since 2023. It was first unveiled as a prototype in November 2019, featuring a distinctive angular design composed of flat, unpainted stainless steel body panels, drawing comparisons to low-polygon computer models.
Originally scheduled for production in late 2021, the vehicle faced multiple delays before entering limited production at Gigafactory Texas in November 2023, with initial customer deliveries occurring later that month. As of 2025, three variants are available: a tri-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model marketed as the “Cyberbeast”, a dual-motor AWD model, and a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) “Long Range” model. EPA range estimates vary by configuration, from 320 to 350 miles (515 to 565 km).
As of 2025, the Cybertruck is sold in the United States, Mexico, Canada and South Korea. The Cybertruck has been criticized for its production quality and safety concerns while its sales have been described as disappointing.
Get more information about: Tesla Cybertruck
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Tesla Model: Cybertruck
Price: $75,619 Mileage: 2,133 mi.

3. **Driving Range and Charging Speed: Long Haul vs. Quick Juice**For any electric vehicle, range and charging capability are paramount. Tesla’s Cybertruck offers up to 340 miles (AWD) or 301 miles (Cyberbeast), with an optional range-extender adding 135 miles. The F-150 Lightning provides 240 miles (standard-range) or up to 320 miles (extended-range). Notably, Edmunds’ EV Range Test found both the AWD Cybertruck and upgraded Lightning managed over 330 miles, showcasing similar long-haul capabilities under real-world conditions.
However, charging convenience and speed reveal a key divergence. The Cybertruck truly pulls ahead with full access to Tesla’s nationwide Supercharger network, known for its widespread availability and quick charging at high-powered stations. This ecosystem benefit is a major draw, translating into less downtime and a smoother experience for owners on the go.
Conversely, while the Cybertruck excels in DC fast-charging, the Lightning offers a quicker AC charging solution. It supports AC charging up to 80 amps, enabling a full charge in approximately eight hours. The Cybertruck is limited to 48 amps AC charging, requiring around eleven hours. This highlights different strengths: Cybertruck for fast public charging, Lightning for more practical home or overnight charging.
Car Model Information: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive
Name: Tesla Cybertruck
Caption: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, Foundation Series
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: November 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: Austin, Texas
Designer: unbulleted list
Class: Pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (15:1 ratio)
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: Unbulleted indent list
Sp: us
Charging: unbulleted list
Battery: val
Motor: unbulleted indent list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Tesla Cybertruck is a battery-electric full-size pickup truck manufactured by Tesla, Inc. since 2023. It was first unveiled as a prototype in November 2019, featuring a distinctive angular design composed of flat, unpainted stainless steel body panels, drawing comparisons to low-polygon computer models.
Originally scheduled for production in late 2021, the vehicle faced multiple delays before entering limited production at Gigafactory Texas in November 2023, with initial customer deliveries occurring later that month. As of 2025, three variants are available: a tri-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model marketed as the “Cyberbeast”, a dual-motor AWD model, and a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) “Long Range” model. EPA range estimates vary by configuration, from 320 to 350 miles (515 to 565 km).
As of 2025, the Cybertruck is sold in the United States, Mexico, Canada and South Korea. The Cybertruck has been criticized for its production quality and safety concerns while its sales have been described as disappointing.
Get more information about: Tesla Cybertruck
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Tesla Model: Cybertruck
Price: $75,619 Mileage: 2,133 mi.

4. **Towing and Payload Capacity: Utility Supremacy**For any pickup truck, towing and hauling capacity are fundamental. In raw numbers, the Tesla Cybertruck shows a slight edge, with both models boasting an impressive maximum towing capacity of 11,000 pounds. This is complemented by a strong payload capacity of 2,500 pounds, making it a formidable contender for demanding tasks and significant loads.
The Ford F-150 Lightning, while highly capable, presents slightly lower figures. Its towing capacity maxes out at 10,000 pounds. Payload capacity varies: 2,235 pounds (standard-range) and 1,952 pounds (extended-range). Opting for longer range slightly reduces hauling capability, a trade-off for buyers based on specific utility requirements.
Despite these numerical differences, the F-150 Lightning remains an exceptionally capable vehicle. Its 10,000-pound maximum towing capacity effortlessly handles a wide array of common towing needs, such as pulling a midsize boat, a travel trailer, or an ATV. For the vast majority of users, its utility is more than sufficient, delivering on the core promise of an F-Series pickup.
Car Model Information: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive
Name: Tesla Cybertruck
Caption: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, Foundation Series
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: November 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: Austin, Texas
Designer: unbulleted list
Class: Pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (15:1 ratio)
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: Unbulleted indent list
Sp: us
Charging: unbulleted list
Battery: val
Motor: unbulleted indent list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Tesla Cybertruck is a battery-electric full-size pickup truck manufactured by Tesla, Inc. since 2023. It was first unveiled as a prototype in November 2019, featuring a distinctive angular design composed of flat, unpainted stainless steel body panels, drawing comparisons to low-polygon computer models.
Originally scheduled for production in late 2021, the vehicle faced multiple delays before entering limited production at Gigafactory Texas in November 2023, with initial customer deliveries occurring later that month. As of 2025, three variants are available: a tri-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model marketed as the “Cyberbeast”, a dual-motor AWD model, and a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) “Long Range” model. EPA range estimates vary by configuration, from 320 to 350 miles (515 to 565 km).
As of 2025, the Cybertruck is sold in the United States, Mexico, Canada and South Korea. The Cybertruck has been criticized for its production quality and safety concerns while its sales have been described as disappointing.
Get more information about: Tesla Cybertruck
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Tesla Model: Cybertruck
Price: $75,619 Mileage: 2,133 mi.
Read more about: Legends of the Asphalt: A Deep Dive into America’s Most Influential Automotive Icons

5. **Advanced Towing Technology: The Lightning’s Secret Weapon**While the Tesla Cybertruck might boast a slightly higher maximum towing capacity, the Ford F-150 Lightning truly distinguishes itself in *how* it assists with towing and hauling. This is precisely where the Lightning has a feature poised to leave Tesla owners, accustomed to their brand’s tech-forward approach, genuinely stunned. The F-150 Lightning introduces sophisticated towing and hauling features the Cybertruck notably lacks, transforming potential challenges into seamless operations.
Foremost among these game-changing innovations are Ford’s **Onboard Scales** and **Smart Hitch**. Onboard Scales estimate your payload weight in real-time, eliminating guesswork, preventing overloading, and ensuring safety. Smart Hitch tackles trailer connection complexity by estimating tongue weight, providing real-time guidance for proper balance. These intelligent aids transform potentially hazardous tasks into straightforward, confidence-inspiring experiences, offering invaluable precision and instant feedback for regular haulers.
The absence of such practical towing aids in the Cybertruck highlights a philosophical divergence. While Tesla focuses on raw performance and a minimalist tech interface, Ford enhances the actual *experience* of truck ownership for core tasks. These features elevate the Lightning from a mere electric vehicle to an intelligent, proactive utility partner, setting a new benchmark for what an electric pickup can offer beyond just raw power.
Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE SEL 2.4
Name: Ford F-150 Lightning
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Related: Ford F-Series (fourteenth generation)
Assembly: Dearborn, Michigan
ModelYears: 2022–present
Production: April 2022 – present
Layout: Dual-motor, four-wheel-drive
Platform: Ford T platform#T3
Class: Pickup truck
Sp: us
Battery: lithium-ion
Motor: permanent magnet motor
ElectricRange: Unbulleted list
Abbr: on (extended battery)
Powerout: Unbulleted list
Charging: Unbulleted list
Designer: Unbulleted list
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from June 2022
Summary: The Ford F-150 Lightning is a battery electric full-size light duty truck unveiled by the Ford Motor Company in May 2021 as part of the fourteenth generation Ford F-Series. Four models have been announced, and all models initially will be dual-motor, four-wheel-drive, with EPA range estimates of 240–320 mi (390–510 km). A commercial-grade version of the all-wheel drive (AWD) truck is sold in the United States, with higher-power/trim/range models also sold. The F-150 Lightning began production on April 26, 2022.
Get more information about: Ford F-150 Lightning
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: F-150 Lightning
Price: $21,499 Mileage: 18,514 mi.

6. **Interior Comfort and Passenger Space: User Experience**Interior comfort and passenger space reveal distinct design philosophies. The Tesla Cybertruck, with its adaptive air suspension, delivers an exceptionally smooth ride quality. Its front seats are comfortable, but the rear seats are noted as “pretty stiff,” potentially impacting long-distance comfort. Despite its imposing exterior, the Cybertruck offers less passenger space than the Ford F-150 Lightning, a key consideration for families or frequent multi-passenger transport.
The F-150 Lightning also boasts excellent ride quality and seat comfort, though Edmunds’ experts rate it “one notch below the Cybertruck’s.” This minor difference is offset by the Lightning’s significantly better outward visibility, a practical advantage enhancing safety and maneuverability. Good visibility is a fundamental aspect of truck design, clearly prioritized by Ford.
Beyond visibility, the Lightning excels with easy-to-use, intuitive interior controls, reducing driver distraction—a sharp contrast to the Cybertruck’s reliance on its massive central touchscreen. Furthermore, the Lightning offers luxury features like massaging seats, elevating the cabin experience. These differences underscore Ford’s commitment to traditional truck practicality and comfort, providing a more conventional, user-friendly, and feature-rich interior.
Navigating Interior Tech, Pricing, and Crucial Safety Metrics: A comprehensive look at the remaining six key aspects, including IIHS ratings and overall value propositions. We’ve dissected the foundational differences in design, raw power, and initial utility, but the true depth of this rivalry emerges as we delve into the sophisticated interior technology, the critical pricing structures, and the paramount safety performance of these groundbreaking electric pickups.
Car Model Information: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive
Name: Tesla Cybertruck
Caption: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, Foundation Series
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: November 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: Austin, Texas
Designer: unbulleted list
Class: Pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (15:1 ratio)
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: Unbulleted indent list
Sp: us
Charging: unbulleted list
Battery: val
Motor: unbulleted indent list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Tesla Cybertruck is a battery-electric full-size pickup truck manufactured by Tesla, Inc. since 2023. It was first unveiled as a prototype in November 2019, featuring a distinctive angular design composed of flat, unpainted stainless steel body panels, drawing comparisons to low-polygon computer models.
Originally scheduled for production in late 2021, the vehicle faced multiple delays before entering limited production at Gigafactory Texas in November 2023, with initial customer deliveries occurring later that month. As of 2025, three variants are available: a tri-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model marketed as the “Cyberbeast”, a dual-motor AWD model, and a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) “Long Range” model. EPA range estimates vary by configuration, from 320 to 350 miles (515 to 565 km).
As of 2025, the Cybertruck is sold in the United States, Mexico, Canada and South Korea. The Cybertruck has been criticized for its production quality and safety concerns while its sales have been described as disappointing.
Get more information about: Tesla Cybertruck
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Tesla Model: Cybertruck
Price: $75,619 Mileage: 2,133 mi.
Read more about: 15 Trucks Owners Wish They Never Bought: Unpacking the Crippling Costs and Regrets

7. **Interior Tech and Connectivity: Beyond the Dashboard Experience**Moving beyond mere comfort, the technological ecosystems within these trucks present another stark divergence. The Tesla Cybertruck, true to its brand’s ethos, centralizes nearly every function within its massive 18.5-inch center touchscreen. While undeniably sleek and responsive, this singular reliance on a touchscreen for controls, as Edmunds experts noted, can be significantly distracting while driving, forcing drivers to divert attention from the road for even basic adjustments.
Further accentuating its unique approach, the Cybertruck conspicuously lacks full smartphone connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a standard feature many modern drivers consider essential. Its included Full Self-Driving package, though a suite of advanced driver aids that can accelerate, brake, and steer, comes with a crucial caveat: it’s not truly autonomous, requiring constant driver attention and intervention. This package is currently only available to a select number of owners, adding another layer of exclusivity and limitation.
The Ford F-150 Lightning, while also featuring a sizable 15.5-inch center touchscreen, offers a more balanced approach. It integrates a slew of tech features alongside more traditional, easy-to-use physical controls, significantly reducing potential driver distraction. Crucially, the Lightning provides robust smartphone connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration with users’ digital lives. Additionally, Ford’s BlueCruise, a hands-free driving system, is available for use on many designated highways, providing a truly hands-free experience under specific conditions, a practical aid that enhances long-distance travel.
These differences underscore a fundamental choice in user interface philosophy: Cybertruck’s minimalist, screen-dominant future versus Lightning’s blend of advanced digital features with conventional ergonomic practicality. For many, the ability to intuitively control vehicle functions and integrate personal devices without compromise is a significant factor in daily driving satisfaction.
Car Model Information: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive
Name: Tesla Cybertruck
Caption: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, Foundation Series
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: November 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: Austin, Texas
Designer: unbulleted list
Class: Pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (15:1 ratio)
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: Unbulleted indent list
Sp: us
Charging: unbulleted list
Battery: val
Motor: unbulleted indent list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Tesla Cybertruck is a battery-electric full-size pickup truck manufactured by Tesla, Inc. since 2023. It was first unveiled as a prototype in November 2019, featuring a distinctive angular design composed of flat, unpainted stainless steel body panels, drawing comparisons to low-polygon computer models.
Originally scheduled for production in late 2021, the vehicle faced multiple delays before entering limited production at Gigafactory Texas in November 2023, with initial customer deliveries occurring later that month. As of 2025, three variants are available: a tri-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model marketed as the “Cyberbeast”, a dual-motor AWD model, and a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) “Long Range” model. EPA range estimates vary by configuration, from 320 to 350 miles (515 to 565 km).
As of 2025, the Cybertruck is sold in the United States, Mexico, Canada and South Korea. The Cybertruck has been criticized for its production quality and safety concerns while its sales have been described as disappointing.
Get more information about: Tesla Cybertruck
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Tesla Model: Cybertruck
Price: $75,619 Mileage: 2,133 mi.
Read more about: Wired for the Road Ahead: Unpacking the Smart Cockpit Revolution and Its Impact on Driving

8. **Pricing and Value: The Bottom Line Battle for Your Wallet**When it comes to the crucial metric of pricing, the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck offer vastly different propositions that profoundly impact their value. The Cybertruck’s All-Wheel Drive model starts at a premium $102,235, including destination, while the more potent Cyberbeast variant escalates to $122,235. Tesla has hinted at a less expensive Rear-Wheel Drive model, but its availability is not expected until next year, keeping the current entry point remarkably high.
In sharp contrast, the F-150 Lightning presents a much more accessible entry into the electric pickup segment. Excluding its commercial-oriented Pro version, the Lightning’s XLT trim starts at a compelling $65,090, with the top-tier Platinum trim coming in at $87,090. This pricing strategy immediately highlights the Lightning’s commitment to broader accessibility, echoing Ford’s traditional truck market approach.
Edmunds’ experts unequivocally state that until a lower-priced Cybertruck model becomes available, or if Tesla significantly reduces its current pricing, the Cybertruck makes the Lightning “look like a steal.” The substantial $40,000 price difference between the base models is incredibly difficult to justify, especially when considering overall features and utility. Even with the Cyberbeast’s higher power, the significantly less expensive Lightning Platinum trim offers a compelling array of luxury, tech, and towing features that collectively provide far greater value.
This aggressive pricing strategy from Ford fundamentally reshapes the value proposition in the electric truck market. For buyers prioritizing practicality, robust features, and a more approachable investment, the Lightning clearly emerges as the economic champion, delivering significant bang for the buck without sacrificing essential capabilities or desirable amenities. It’s a compelling argument for those seeking a powerful electric workhorse that doesn’t break the bank.
Car Model Information: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive
Name: Tesla Cybertruck
Caption: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, Foundation Series
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: November 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: Austin, Texas
Designer: unbulleted list
Class: Pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (15:1 ratio)
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: Unbulleted indent list
Sp: us
Charging: unbulleted list
Battery: val
Motor: unbulleted indent list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Tesla Cybertruck is a battery-electric full-size pickup truck manufactured by Tesla, Inc. since 2023. It was first unveiled as a prototype in November 2019, featuring a distinctive angular design composed of flat, unpainted stainless steel body panels, drawing comparisons to low-polygon computer models.
Originally scheduled for production in late 2021, the vehicle faced multiple delays before entering limited production at Gigafactory Texas in November 2023, with initial customer deliveries occurring later that month. As of 2025, three variants are available: a tri-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) model marketed as the “Cyberbeast”, a dual-motor AWD model, and a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) “Long Range” model. EPA range estimates vary by configuration, from 320 to 350 miles (515 to 565 km).
As of 2025, the Cybertruck is sold in the United States, Mexico, Canada and South Korea. The Cybertruck has been criticized for its production quality and safety concerns while its sales have been described as disappointing.
Get more information about: Tesla Cybertruck
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Tesla Model: Cybertruck
Price: $75,619 Mileage: 2,133 mi.
Read more about: Navigating the Automotive Market: 12 Best and Worst Vehicles for Your Money in 2024-2025

9. **Crucial Safety Metrics: The IIHS Crashworthiness Tests**Safety is non-negotiable, and the latest evaluations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) offer crucial insights into how these electric titans perform when it matters most. The IIHS recently released early results from its 2025 testing progress for several electric vehicles, including both the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck, revealing a mixed bag of outcomes that will influence their ultimate safety ratings.
One of the most telling evaluations is the new moderate overlap test, designed to assess crashworthiness in more “glancing” head-on collisions. Here, the F-150 Lightning’s performance was rated only “marginal.” While front passengers fared well, significant issues arose in the rear compartment. Measurements from the rear dummy indicated a high risk of both chest injuries and injuries to the head or neck. Compounding this, the rear dummy’s lap belt migrated from the pelvis to the abdomen, increasing the risk of internal injuries – a concerning result for family safety.
Conversely, the Tesla Cybertruck performed commendably in the moderate overlap test, earning a “Good” rating from the IIHS. This strong performance, however, comes with a critical asterisk: this favorable result is applicable only to Cybertrucks manufactured from April 2025 onward. Tesla informed the IIHS of a structural change made at that time to improve crashworthiness, meaning earlier models may not share this level of protection. This highlights a dynamic aspect of safety engineering, where continuous improvements are vital.
While the Cybertruck’s “Good” rating for later builds is impressive, the Lightning’s “marginal” score in this specific test underscores that even well-established designs face new challenges with evolving safety protocols. Buyers interested in the Cybertruck would need to confirm their specific build date to ensure they benefit from the improved crashworthiness.
Car Model Information: 2023 Honda Accord LX
Name: Ford F-150 Lightning
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Related: Ford F-Series (fourteenth generation)
Assembly: Dearborn, Michigan
ModelYears: 2022–present
Production: April 2022 – present
Layout: Dual-motor, four-wheel-drive
Platform: Ford T platform#T3
Class: Pickup truck
Sp: us
Battery: lithium-ion
Motor: permanent magnet motor
ElectricRange: Unbulleted list
Abbr: on (extended battery)
Powerout: Unbulleted list
Charging: Unbulleted list
Designer: Unbulleted list
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from June 2022
Summary: The Ford F-150 Lightning is a battery electric full-size light duty truck unveiled by the Ford Motor Company in May 2021 as part of the fourteenth generation Ford F-Series. Four models have been announced, and all models initially will be dual-motor, four-wheel-drive, with EPA range estimates of 240–320 mi (390–510 km). A commercial-grade version of the all-wheel drive (AWD) truck is sold in the United States, with higher-power/trim/range models also sold. The F-150 Lightning began production on April 26, 2022.
Get more information about: Ford F-150 Lightning
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: F-150 Lightning
Price: $25,677 Mileage: 15,933 mi.

10. **Illuminating the Path: Headlight Performance and Glare**Beyond structural crashworthiness, another often-overlooked yet critical safety aspect is headlight performance, particularly for night driving and pedestrian safety. The IIHS also evaluates headlights, and the results for this batch of electric vehicles, including the F-150 Lightning and Cybertruck, were far from stellar. In fact, not a single vehicle in this group received a “good” rating for its headlights, indicating a widespread area for improvement across the segment.
For the Tesla Cybertruck, the news on headlights was particularly dim. It was one of only two vehicles in the entire group to receive the lowest possible rating: “Poor.” The primary culprit cited by the IIHS was excessive glare from the Cybertruck’s low beams, a significant issue that can impair visibility for oncoming drivers and pedestrians, thereby increasing accident risks. This places the Cybertruck in the least favorable category for a feature crucial to proactive safety.
While the F-150 Lightning’s specific headlight rating wasn’t detailed as “poor,” the broader statement that no vehicle achieved a “good” rating suggests it also faces challenges in this area. Effective headlights are fundamental to driving safety, ensuring clear visibility for the driver and minimizing blinding effects for others on the road. The Cybertruck’s “poor” rating is a notable drawback that could influence driver confidence and safety perceptions, emphasizing that cutting-edge design doesn’t always translate to superior practical safety elements.

11. **The Elusive Top Safety Pick: Decoding IIHS Criteria for EV Trucks**The ultimate commendation for vehicle safety from the IIHS is the “Top Safety Pick” or “Top Safety Pick+” award, a designation that requires vehicles to excel across a comprehensive suite of tests. Achieving this status demands “good” ratings in the small overlap and side crash tests, “acceptable” or “good” ratings for headlights (available on all trims), and an “acceptable” or “good” rating in the pedestrian crash avoidance test. For the standard “Top Safety Pick,” an “acceptable” rating in the moderate overlap test is sufficient, while “Top Safety Pick+” requires a “good” rating.
Given these stringent criteria, the path to a Top Safety Pick award for both the Cybertruck and the F-150 Lightning appears challenging. The Tesla Cybertruck, despite its “Good” rating in the moderate overlap test (for post-April 2025 builds), is set to miss out on any Top Safety Pick designation. The primary reason for this exclusion is its “poor” rating for headlight performance, which falls short of the “acceptable” minimum required for even the standard award. This illustrates how a single weak link in the safety chain can prevent a vehicle from achieving top honors.
For the Ford F-150 Lightning, while not all its crash results are fully published, its “marginal” rating in the moderate overlap test already presents a significant hurdle. Even if other tests like small overlap and side impact yield “good” results (as seen with its gas-powered counterpart), the “marginal” moderate overlap score combined with the general poor headlight performance across the EV group suggests that the Lightning, too, is unlikely to secure a Top Safety Pick award. This comprehensive evaluation highlights the evolving benchmarks for vehicle safety and the rigorous demands placed on new electric platforms.

12. **The Ultimate Verdict: Choosing Your Electric Future on Wheels**After a thorough journey comparing the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck across twelve critical dimensions, the picture becomes vividly clear. Both vehicles represent monumental leaps in electric pickup technology, yet they cater to fundamentally different philosophies and consumer desires. We’ve seen a captivating blend of tradition and revolution, practicality and audacious innovation, each carving its own niche in this burgeoning market.
Edmunds’ comprehensive analysis ultimately crowns the Ford F-150 Lightning as the winner in the head-to-head showdown, a testament to its compelling overall package. The Lightning distinguished itself with its superior value, offering a more accessible entry price point without compromising on essential utility. Its advanced towing technologies, such as Onboard Scales and Smart Hitch, genuinely elevate the user experience for core truck tasks, providing invaluable assistance that the Cybertruck currently lacks. Furthermore, the Lightning’s larger, more practical, and conventionally comfortable interior, coupled with user-friendly tech and better outward visibility, tips the scales in its favor for daily livability.
However, this isn’t to say the Cybertruck doesn’t have its undeniable allure. For those who prioritize a vehicle that makes an unequivocal statement, a design that turns heads more than a supercar, and a ride quality that borders on sublime, the Cybertruck remains the obvious choice. Its futuristic aesthetics, groundbreaking materials, and raw acceleration are powerful draws for early adopters and tech enthusiasts willing to embrace a truly unconventional driving experience, particularly if they can overlook some of its practical drawbacks and premium pricing.
In essence, the choice between these two electric giants boils down to your personal priorities. Do you value traditional truck functionality, practical innovation, and a robust value proposition in a familiar package? The Ford F-150 Lightning awaits. Or are you drawn to cutting-edge, polarizing design, raw performance, and a vehicle that pushes the boundaries of automotive convention, even at a higher price and with some trade-offs in usability and current safety accolades? The Tesla Cybertruck is calling. This thrilling rivalry ensures that the electric pickup market is more exciting and diverse than ever before, offering formidable options for every kind of truck enthusiast looking to power into the future.