The electric vehicle (EV) truck market has matured significantly, offering consumers a range of choices that cater to different needs and preferences. A recent owner’s experience highlights the complexity of selecting the right EV truck, as personal preferences and daily usability can outweigh specifications on paper.
Cyle Hendricks, an EV enthusiast, shared his journey on the ‘GMC Sierra EV Group’ Facebook page. He had owned and driven three major EV trucks – the Rivian R1T, GMC Sierra Denali EV, and Ford F-150 Lightning – across the country. Despite appreciating each vehicle’s unique strengths, he ultimately returned to the Ford F-150 Lightning, citing its superior ride quality as the deciding factor.
Key Differences in EV Truck Ownership
Hendricks praised the Lightning for its:
- Smoother ride compared to both the Rivian R1T and GMC Sierra Denali EV
- Quieter cabin with less wind noise and no motor sound
- More comfortable suspension
- Better air conditioning performance
- Superior sound system
- Practical features like foldable back seats creating a flat floor
- Better build quality with minimal rattles
- More affordable insurance at $110/month less
- Extended warranty and gap coverage options
- Responsive FordPass app
Challenges and Tradeoffs
However, Hendricks noted significant drawbacks, particularly regarding range and charging. The GMC Sierra EV’s GM Ultium platform offered better range and faster charging speeds, making it more suitable for long trips. For instance, on a 400+ mile drive, the Denali EV required only one charge after the initial charge, while the Lightning needed multiple shorter charging stops.
Community Insights
Other owners shared their experiences, providing a more nuanced view of EV truck ownership:
- Adrian Evans, who owns both the Ford F-150 Lightning and GMC Sierra Denali EV, noted that while the Lightning offered a better ride, the Denali EV excelled in towing capacity and range.
- Dean M. Boivin expressed hope for upcoming models like the Scout, having been impressed by the range and charge time of his friend’s new Silverado EV.
- Zach Lewis, who has driven multiple EV pickups, summarized the tradeoffs: the Rivian R1T for off-road capability, the Sierra EV for comfort and range, the Lightning for fun factor, and the CT for software and self-driving features.
Broader Implications
The discussion highlights that no single EV truck excels in all areas. Each model represents a balance of strengths and compromises, making the choice highly personal and dependent on individual priorities. Factors such as daily usability, charging strategy, software integration, and specific needs like towing capacity play crucial roles in the decision-making process.
As the EV truck market continues to evolve with new entrants like Scout and Ram REV, current models may soon face stiff competition. For now, the Ford F-150 Lightning remains a strong contender for those seeking a practical, fun-to-drive, and well-integrated EV experience, even if it’s not perfect in every aspect.
The EV truck segment is rapidly maturing, with various models offering unique strengths. As consumers weigh their options, personal experiences like Hendricks’ provide valuable insights into what truly matters in an EV truck.
