This user on reddit posted that they exchanged their Rivian R1T for a Ford Lightning. Was this the right choice? We’ll discuss here the major differences between the two and which is best for what type of truck owner.
Both the Rivian R1T and the Lightning are full electric pickup trucks.
Both have been around for over a year. The Rivian R1T, however, can only be reserved through the website where the F150 Lightning is available at some dealerships.
(Jump to top comments on Reddit)
Rivian R1T vs Ford Lightning
In general, the R1T and Lightning are quite different vehicles. The price, range, capabilities and size are all different.
| Rivian R1T | Ford Lightning | |
| Cost | 73,000 lbs | 56,000 lbs |
| Range | 260-400 miles | 240 miles |
| Capabilities | 11,000 lbs towing capacity | 7,700 lbs towing capacity |
| Storage front truck total storage | 14.13 cu.ft | 11.1 cu.ft 62 cu.ft |
| Bed Length | 54.1 in | 66 in |
Cost
The Rivian R1T is known to be a luxury pickup truck sitting at a staritng MSRP of $73,000 (Rivian.com).
Ford Lightning is much cheaper at $56,000 (ford.com).
Range
The Rivian R1T lists multiple range options between 260 and 400 miles. These are both larger than the 240 range estimated by the Ford Lightning.
The R1T has more options that change this variable more than the Lightning.
Capabilities
Though Ford is known to supply heavy duty trucks on the market with large capacities, Ford falls short compared to the R1T in towing capacity.
The Rivian R1T can tow 11,000 lbs and the Ford Lightning can tow up to 7,700 lbs.
Storage
Outside from the truck bed, electric cars have additional storage in the front truck.
The Ford has a bigger truck by 3 cu.ft and can accommodate 400 lbs.
Though the Rivian R1T has limited front truck space, it offers an additional 50 cu.ft of storage though a rear storage bin and under seat compartments.
The truck bed, however is larger in the Ford Lightning than the R1T by 1 ft making it more capable to transport large items.
What People are Saying
The comments on this reddit post are quite interesting.
A common note between the two was the that F150 Lightning had a much smoother ride. The Rivian R1T is a bit jerky and bumpy.
Though the Rivian R1T is a more luxurious car with premium leather and wood interior, it has a much smaller cab compared to the Lightning.
Though many F150s are equipped for off roading, the R1T is better in this area because of the high ground clearance and improved towing capacity.
Verdict
So it is hard to compare the two as there are benefits and downsides to both.
If you are looking for a more premium car with better performance and capabilities, the Rivian R1T would be the right pick.
For someone looking for a cheaper option for regular driving with lots of cab space and a larger truck bed would be happy with the F150 Lightning.
