Ford F-150 Lightning vs. Chevrolet Silverado EV: Best Electric Truck?

The electric truck market is heating up, with legacy automakers introducing powerful, zero-emission alternatives to their best-selling gas-powered models. Two of the most anticipated entries are the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Chevrolet Silverado EV, both aiming to redefine what an electric pickup can do.

But which one is the better choice for consumers? This comparison examines their performance, range, features, and pricing to help determine the best electric truck for different needs.

Performance and Power

Ford F-150 Lightning

• Power: The Lightning offers up to 580 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque in its extended-range configuration.

• Towing & Payload: Maximum towing capacity of 10,000 lbs and a payload rating of 2,235 lbs.

• Acceleration: Goes from 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds (with the extended-range battery).

Chevrolet Silverado EV

• Power: The top-tier RST First Edition delivers 754 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque in Wide Open Watts Mode.

• Towing & Payload: Can tow up to 10,000 lbs and carry a 1,300-lb payload (RST trim).

• Acceleration: Hits 0-60 mph in under 4.5 seconds.

Verdict: The Silverado EV has a slight edge in horsepower, but the Lightning offers better payload capacity and similar towing performance.

Range and Charging

Ford F-150 Lightning

• Range: Up to 320 miles (extended-range battery).

• Charging: Supports 150 kW DC fast charging, adding 54 miles in 10 minutes or reaching 15-80% in about 41 minutes.

• Vehicle-to-Home (V2H): Can power a home for up to three days during an outage.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

• Range: Up to 450 miles (RST trim with the largest battery).

• Charging: Supports 350 kW DC fast charging, adding 100 miles in 10 minutes or reaching 10-80% in about 30 minutes.

• Vehicle-to-Home & Vehicle-to-Load (V2H/V2L): Also offers bi-directional charging for home backup and power tools.

Verdict: The Silverado EV has a clear advantage in range and faster charging, making it better for long-distance drivers.

Technology and Features

Ford F-150 Lightning

• Infotainment: 12-inch or 15.5-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

• Storage: Mega Power Frunk (14.1 cu-ft) with power outlets and drainable floor.

• Pro Power Onboard: Up to 9.6 kW of exportable power for tools and camping.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

• Infotainment: 17-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, wireless connectivity.

• Storage: Midgate allows extending the bed into the cabin, plus a 10.7 cu-ft front trunk.

• Multi-Flex Tailgate & Power Options: More configurable cargo solutions.

Verdict: The Silverado EV’s Midgate and larger screen give it an innovation lead, while the Lightning’s Power Frunk is more practical for daily use.

Pricing and Availability

Ford F-150 Lightning

• Starting Price: ~$55,000 (Pro trim).

• Top Trim: Platinum (~$92,000).

• Availability: Already on sale, with strong production scaling.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

• Starting Price: ~$50,000 (WT fleet model).

• Top Trim: RST First Edition (~$105,000+).

• Availability: Rolling out in phases, with retail models arriving after fleet versions.

Verdict: The Lightning is more accessible right now, but the Silverado EV’s Work Truck (WT) model could be a better value for commercial buyers.