Ford Electric Truck Test Shows EVs' Load Limits
AAA analysis found Lightning’s range significantly cut when loaded down.
Extra-heavy load reduces range by 25%, study found.
IMAGE: Ford
In a test of the Ford F-150 Lightning truck, AAA found that heavy loads restrict its driving range.
Heavier loads tax electric trucks, making them work harder, the study found.
When AAA loaded a Lightning with 1,400 pounds of sandbags, 110 pounds short of its maximum capacity, it found that its range fell from 278 miles between charges to 210 miles, a 25% decrease.
AAA pointed out that such a load isn’t typical. “Most buyers will likely use their Lightning with a lighter load, resulting in a much smaller range reduction,” it said, adding that all electric and gas-powered vehicles’ driving ranges are effected by the weight they carry.
It said the Lightning’s unloaded range is significantly less than its gas-powered counterpart, whose range is more than 500 miles per tank.
AAA urged prospective electric truck buyers to think about the driving they’ll typically do so they choose the right model for their needs. Currently, it pointed out, it’s easier to go the gas route than electric.
LEARN MORE: F-150 Lightning MotorTrend's Truck of the Year
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Showroom
Used EVs Outpace New
While North American electric-vehicle sales remain down year-over-year, May sales saw a 3% increase from April’s numbers as used EVs led the market.
Read More →
New Vehicles Down for Most Brands
Healthy May sales cut into inventory as automakers kept a tight reign on supply, though some brands ended the month with excess units on the ground.
Read More →
Auto Prices Ride May Moderation
Flat ATPs and asking prices clocked in below long-term averages for the month, though some segments saw significant price gains, reported Cox Automotive.
Read More →
Mitsubishi Sets Growth Strategy, Structural Transformation
The Japanese automaker aims to 'strengthen products and technologies that embody its brand identity,' focus on its strongest markets and expand value-chain businesses 'that leverage its unique strengths.'
Read More →
Affordable, Safe Cars for Teen Drivers
Families looking to balance affordability and safety in vehicles for their teen drivers can look to the updated list of recommended vehicles by IIHS and Consumer Reports.
Read More →
Auto Dealers Feel Better But Not Great
A second-quarter Cox Automotive poll of franchised retailers and independents found better views of the current market after a good spring but anticipation of third-quarter storminess.
Read More →
Holman Opens Porsche Dealership in Miami
The North Miami store features the brand’s signature Destination Porsche design concept, combining contemporary architecture and technology to create what the auto group calls an ultra-luxury experience.
Read More →
Chicago to Gain Cadillac Rooftop in 2027
The two-story Cadillac dealership is being constructed at the former Lincoln Yards site, owned and operated by Canada-based Jack Carter Auto Group.
Read More →
Mid-Atlantic Ford Store Has New Owner
A growing Maryland automotive group is only the 93-year-old dealership’s third owner after its longtime proprietors retired.
Read More →
Porsche Dealership Breaks Ground in Illinois
Barrington Porsche will be the new location for Murgado Automotive Group’s existing Porsche dealership currently in the Motor Werks of Barrington auto mall.
Read More →