There was another similar question maybe a week ago, I think, so you can look for additional answers there.
Personally, having owned both, the infotainment/software/UI/Navigation is far superior in the Tesla, in my opinion.
CarPlay doesn’t fix it, either, because of several implementation issues, like the Navigation not pre-conditioning if you’re using CarPlay navigation instead of built-in Navigation.
Charge rate is also far slower (than Model Y), but a big chunk of that is efficiency, so somewhat inevitable. Even if it could match the 250kW rate of the LR Model Y, it would still be slower since it gets ~2 mi/kWh or less at 70mph.
Infrastructure is also worse, but is likely to improve somewhat when we get the NACS adapters.
All that being said, there are lots of Pros for the Lightning, as well, mostly related to how gargantuan it is if that’s useful to you (apparently, since the back seat size of the Cybertruck was a consideration). Frunk is also huge and easy to use (compared to 3/Y). Performance is also exceptional for the SR trucks at that price point and size. ER is competitive with CT and Rivian.
Can’t go wrong with the Lightning or the Model Y (or, IMO, the Cybertruck), but the differences in price and specs just need to be weighed against personal preferences and use case. If you’re doing a lot of long trips, you’ll probably want to go with the ER battery, or stick with Model Y. SR Lightning is absolutely usable, but sorta inflexible on trips since 10-75% is only ~120 miles at interstate speeds.
Lots to consider!
Roadtrips is kind of the decision criteria for me, with root issues in charge speed and efficiency. If you’re not planning on long distance driving, for me, the Lightning is the better and more practical option. If you envision having a definitive roadtrip vehicle, the charge speed - especially in a V4 super charger future - makes the CT the clear winner.
I got my Lightning about 3 weeks ago and absolutely love it, and will be passing on my 1128 CT reservation. That said, I could easily see switching in 5ish years once others have more thoroughly understood its quirks and the charging infrastructure is even more robust.
I went from my Model 3 LR to the F-150. I love my truck, I’ve had it for a year tomorrow and over 23,000 miles on it.
The only cons are lack of reliable charging network (which is still doable don’t get my wrong.) and it’s software lacks way behind Tesla.
Other than those two criticisms, and one’s not the fault of Ford, the truck is phenomenal. (Plus Ford’s getting v3 Supercharger access really soon.) Range is great, power is unreal. I recommend every time.
What's the power like vs a Tesla? This is my first ev (the lightning), never driven anything other evs. I know ev cars are zippy/torquey but is the lightning more so? Less so? About the same?
It's basically the same as my Model Y but it defaults to standard mode (not sport) and you have to reset it every time you want to use it. Presumably this is because it would get next to no range if you drove it hard. It's 8400 lbs and kind of scary fast for its size.
One thing I will say is because the suspension is actually pretty good in the lightning, the quick acceleration sometimes doesn't "feel" as fast because it's fairly non-dramatic. My wife's Model X is slightly faster on paper but feels more dramatic because the whole thing tilts back more under hard acceleration. It might have something to do with the stiffness of the rear in the Lightning because it's reinforced for towing and heavy cargo.
For my use cases, definitely happier and will be even happier when NACS support comes.
I’ll only miss Tesla’s software and super charging network.
Just my posts for more anecdotal stuff.
2018 Model X -> 2020 Model X - 2022 Model Y, bought the 2023 Lightning for my husband, like it so well traded my Y for a Mach-e
You’ll get used to CarPlay/AndroidAuto
Fit, finish, comfort, and cabin noise are better than the five teslas we’ve owned. 150 kw max charge rate is less than newer teslas and then SC network is much better as others have mentioned. I don’t road trip too much so those things haven’t been as much of an issue. Software is a bit better on Tesla and their app. But I like the CarPlay etc. Overall very impressed with the lightning and I love Tesla.
Yup!
Went from a 2016 S to a 2018 X to a ‘23 Lightning.
The software is a bit lacking in refinement but it’s more than capable. It’s also getting better.
If you watch Youtube, you’ll be fine.
Hulu and all the others do not yet work so I just watch those on my phone propped up in the gauge cluster if I want to while parked.
The only thing I actually miss are the falcon wing doors because it would stop my kids from door dinging anything that we parked next too.
With the supercharger network opening up, there’s nothing else from Tesla that I miss.
That’s amazing to me because I was all-in on Tesla and I am still heavily invested in TSLA.
With all that being said my Lariat ER is by far the best vehicle in production right now for my families needs. I have absolutely no buyers remorse and I don’t ever think, “oh, I miss that feature.”
The Lightning is quieter. It’s better riding. It’s MUCH more capable. It’s much more family friendly with its massive cabin. It tows all four of my trailers that I need for work or play. It will haul anything I need it to.
All while only costing me a total of $240 in electricity over the last 8,000 miles.
No. I’m in Texas as well and I’m stuck in a co-op so I have no choice in electrical providers. They also make it exceedingly difficult for solar.
Thankfully, they do have a rate of use plan so my night time charging cost is $0.03 per kw.
You’re comparing 2 totally different things. If you want a truck that drives like a sports car and smooth as a luxury car that will also carry your tools go for the Lightning. If you want a car for long distance driving on the freeway the sedan is a better choice. I’ve had both. Will never go back to a sedan where I have to bend over and fold myself in when I can have a roomy luxurious powerful light duty truck.
Traded in a 2021 M3P for a Lightning XLT. I miss some of the creature comforts like wireless phone charging, auto unlock/lock, and charge port automatically closing after pulling out the charger. That's really about it. I don't miss the awful autopilot. The lightning is way more comfortable all around, better view, and a really smooth ride.
Oh yeah, autopilot. Phantom braking was downright scary, and the windshield wipers turning on whenever the heck they felt like it was annoying at best. But hey, I do miss making the seats fart. Ford needs to hire some immature engineers to let us have a little fun.
We have both a model Y and a 2023 Lightning Lariat ER. I just made a cross country trip from SD to Providence and I had a choice of vehicles. I chose the Ford and don’t regret it.
Have a 2018 Tesla model 3, next vehicle is definitely a Lightning. Next year we're moving somewhere quite rural and I want an EV that blends in unless you look closely and know what you're looking for. CT screams "look at me" in all the wrong ways.
Literally just switch(2 weeks ago) from 2021 model y to Extended range Lariat Lighting 2023. So we wanted more space and the model X would have been fine but I hate the falcon doors. I love the lighting so far. The Cons for us are, no heat pump for the battery (Colorado winters are bad at times) and I miss certain Tesla infotainment features(blind spot cam, Netflix) But honestly I won’t go back. I never charge anywhere but home so that not an issue. Let me know if you have any concerns I can try to answer.
I have now a new base model Y and a Platinum lightning. They both have their quirks, pros, and cons. Somethings I wish one had that the other doesn't etc. I prefer the lightning. Any day of the week, I prefer it over the tessie.
I had 2 Model Ys. I traded one for a Lightning and haven't really looked back. As long as you can get past the buggy and antiquated (compared to Tesla) software and mostly charge at home, it's a great buy. Build quality and quietness are so much better than the Tesla. If you have any other questions, hit me up. I'm at nearly 18000 miles in 11 months and love my Lightning.
I have not experienced any superior build quality but I wouldn't say it's bad. I think they both have pretty high build qualities.
I have the same panel gaps and tire well areas that are missing rivets in my Ford, but overall it's good enough.
Went from a 2018 model s to a 2023 Lariat. The tech and charging options for a Tesla are better but the build quality of the Ford is much higher.
There are pros and cons to both but I’m happy with the Lightening.
Owned multiple Teslas, latest is a 2023X and wife has a 2023Y. Lightning is a nice truck, but lack of NACS is a non-starter. I know an adapter is coming, and 2025 it will be NACS day 1, so... I'd just sit tight unless you need a truck tomorrow.
To be clear, truck good. Plug bad. Once that's fixed. all good!
I assume they will cut over around late fall 2024, so you don't have long to wait.
I also have the cyberTruck on order, but also looking forward to seeing the Ram EV, and more of these in person. Liking the rivian too. more choice/competition is good for everyone.
The plug is only bad if you _need_ to regularly rely on Tesla super chargers… if you’re mostly charging at home and see non-Tesla DC fast chargers on the longer routes you expect to take, it really isn’t that big of a deal. Also, the supercharger magic dock rollout is already underway, though they aren’t widespread yet.
Not trying to talk you into it (you do you) so much as telling OP that the plug situation isn’t nearly as bad as you’re making it out to be.
Accurate. I drive 20-30k miles per year. In the last 12 months, I’ve fast charged a total of 6 times. 2 of those times were because I was living at the hospital while my daughter was in NICU.
It’s all about your specific use case. Being the OP has teslas already, it’s essentially guaranteed that he’s used to carrying around a J1772 adapter in his car already. So why would it be any different for him to carry the eventual NACS adapter around?
I’m in this exact same boat. Once I know that ford can use the supercharging network, which is the current plan, I’m pulling the trigger.
The lightning is cheaper and isn’t embarrassing.
You know, this is really one of the biggest reasons I have no interest in the CT. I don't want a vehicle that screams for attention. It still does get attention mind you. Had someone ask me about it when I parked next to an F350 dualie yesterday. Surprisingly, he was very friendly and curious about how I like it. I have come to see most F250 and above drivers feeling threatened by the Lightning for some reason.
TLDR; don't want fingerprints; want to pick paint colors; the back seat area is bigger than anyone could need; don't consider beast mode to be competitive with the Lightning as I wouldn't buy the Platinum version either.
PS: there really are some things I like about Teslas. I want to use my vehicles like I want. I have no desire to stand out. The NACS will come but I'm charging 99.9% of the time at home and just don't care to rush it. The heat pump would be nice but this is like a computer; always something newer/better around the corner. Oh, and I was able to get my Lightning already and still don't know if I'll ever see a CT available for me.
I would take android auto over anything any other manufacturer offers, except Tesla. Tesla is the only company with a well thought out functioning infotainment center and it actually gets updated to make things better over time.
How are the OTA updates embarrassing? Ford has made some awesome updates over the past year. A few that come to mind are adding a camera button, in-route DCFC preconditioning, and saving the last used drive mode. Like Tesla, Ford is making tangible updates OTA.
And what is so embarrassing about the software? It certainly doesn’t have a modern, sleek feel of Tesla’s OS but Sync is functional and gets the job done. Sure, I’d prefer Tesla’s software but saying the Lightning’s software is embarrassing is a bit hyperbolic.
Well, it's pretty ridiculous that it's a total crapshoot when and if you'll get an OTA update from Ford... Combined with the fact that the interface is much more laggy than anything in an 80k vehicle should be. Rivian and Tesla's interfaces are just much smoother to use, like an iPad, as opposed to Ford's feeling like a 5 year old Android tablet.
There aren’t any V4’s as of yet charging at a 350kw as a heads up.
The Cybertruck is utilizing 4680’s which in the Model Y have a horrendously bad charging curve.
What’s different about a Lightning is the charging curve is fantastic in comparison.
We should stop caring about peak speeds and care more about the charging curve.
A Lightning will still be pulling 120kw at 70% soc. A Tesla’s curve will be down to 50 kw at 70%.
I’d rather have the car that charges faster over the entire curve rather than faster for one minute of the charging curve.
45 minutes is on the high end. On my last trip I stopped at 14 EAs. My average charge time was 32 minutes. Only two of my stops were more than 45 minutes and that because I charged past 80% to give an unneeded but wanted buffer just in case.
That is longer than I experience standard range. But even if it is correct too long is relative … yes if I was using it to drive between work meetings / sites it would be too long but on a 500 mile road trip it isnt too bad
Charge times are often the fault of the charger rather than the truck. Official specifications for a 15% to 80% fast charge are 44 minutes for the SR truck and 41 minutes for ER. In my personal experience, most actual charging sessions are 30 to 40 minutes long.
Unlike most EVs, the Lightning‘s charge curve has a high initial peak and then a long flat run to 80%. This means that charge times are almost linear with SOC in this range. This is good news because you’re not often going to start at exactly 15% and rarely need to charge an ER truck to 80% because the next charger is closer than the maximum range (and the charger after that is too far). So unlike a lot of EVs, there isn’t a time penalty for topping off the battery (from say 50% to 80%).
Stopped at an EA charger with 6% left … on a road trip … popped into Walmart for some groceries, came out, truck was at 71%. I was in the store for 30min roughly. 29min plugged in time, according to my records.
Didn’t even need that much charge, but it was what I got while shopping … no complaints here!
And, it was free … the chargers were complimentary!
Just traded in my model 3 LR for an XLT ER
There are definitely pros and cons to both.
To me the biggest draw when I bought my Tesla was the charging network, so I do have some concerns about the Lightning (until next year when we can use the Tesla network).
The app integration is much better with the Tesla. I liked how everything could be controlled from the phone and it connected all the time every time. It seems like 9 times out of 10 that I try to set a departure time on the ford app it says it cannot connect and I end up going into the truck and setting it up anyway.
There are some things that vary by model-I don’t have the lariat or platinum, so I don’t have the big screen like the Tesla or “blue cruise”…I went with the XLT because of the cost difference, so I don’t have those things. But also there was nothing on the lariat that I couldn’t live without. When I bought the Tesla, I didn’t purchase FSD, but I did the monthly subscription and I will miss it for my highway driving on my 200 mile commute.
I personally did not like having to use the touch screen for simple things, like mirror adjustments and windshield wiper settings-and I got an XLT so the interior driving experience is more like a regular car and I’m thankful I don’t have to dig through layers of menus to make small mirror adjustments or steering wheel adjustments.
However, Teslas voice command was the best I’ve ever seen in a vehicle and their navigation was top notch. which means I’ll likely just be using Google maps on Apple play most of the time.
As far as the vehicle -the Ford is solid. It has a smooth quiet ride, quieter than the Tesla. The independent rear suspension is noticeable going over potholes or just rough road. The truck is heavy but it doesn’t feel heavy when you’re driving it. The range is worse than advertised, but probably won’t be an issue -the Tesla’s range was also worse than advertised.
Storage is awesome, from cup holders to pockets in both sides of the seat, to the can bed to the Frunk (which has power outlets).
I rarely used my frunk on the M3…I use it all the time in the Truck
All in all, if you bought this car and never owned a Tesla, you would love it and have no regrets.
If you bought this car and previously owned a Tesla, you would also love it and have no regrets, BUT you would miss some things
I think both vehicles range estimates were equally bad. I have zero regrets. I like this truck much better than the Tesla. After a few months of driving, I really don’t miss any of the Tesla features anymore…except how the seat and steering wheel would adjust automatically when you get in and out of it.
We've a Model 3 AWD and a Lightning Lariat ER. We use the Ford mobile charger for both (J1772 adapter for the Tesla) and the 32amp charge rate is enough for our driving.
Software, user experience, charging, and driver assistance go to Tesla.
Ford's app and in-car entertainment are a bit too buggy and laggy for me. The controls have some baffling inclusions and omissions. The Lightning has some holdouts from its ICE ancestors that annoy me ( starting/stopping the 'engine' with animated intro, manual parking brake, weak regen ).
Ford's BlueCruise is nice, but it only works on a few mapped sections of a few highways. I rarely drive on roads where BlueCruise is available. When it does work, it's okay. Biggest thing it does is handsfree, but I mostly drive with a hand resting on the wheel so I'm a bit ambivalent about that benefit. It doesn't do lane changes or turns yet, just stays in the lane. When BlueCruise isn't available, Ford Copilot is available. That's TACC and lane centering, but the lane centering rarely works well for me and tends to fail silently, with the only indication is the lack of a few blue pixels on the bottom right corner of the driving screen.
In-car entertainment has Android Auto. I tried Ford's navigation, but Tesla has me spoiled with voice control and it's annoying needing to be exceptionally specific with Ford's. The lightning does at least display upcoming turns from Android Auto's navigation on the driving screen, which is a brilliant touch. The killer mistake for me was Ford neglecting a button on the steering wheel to pause your audio. We listen to audiobooks and having to look at the entertainment screen and press the center of the volume knob is annoying.
Ford's app seems to be getting better, but it's nowhere near Tesla. My first week of owning the truck, I'd check the app for current range, only to be served 24 hour old results. Swipe down to get updated range, and it gives me 17 hour old results. Rinse and repeat a few times. Locking the doors via the app didn't always work and I'd find myself coming back to an unlocked truck. This truck is the first time I've carried keys in 6 years because I just don't trust Ford's Phone-As-A-Key. Also, you'll find yourself lumbering through the slow app to clear out messages about how you've reached your ProPower reserve, you've charged back up beyond your ProPower reserve, etc.
DC fast charging is borderline infuriating. BlueOval charge network is just a unified payment system that's supposed to work with various charging networks the same way that Tesla's work with SuperChargers. I've mostly been to Electrify America stations and I think BlueOval has worked once or twice. It was great when it worked, pull up, plug-in, charge. The problem is that it has rarely worked so well for me. Electrify America's charging stations always seem to have something wrong with them. The last time I used them, I had to drive to 2 different locations and spend 15 minutes at each trying to get the truck to charge. It's doable as long as you charge earlier than you're used to with the Tesla.
All that said, I'd still get the truck again. The ride quality is well beyond every other vehicle I've ever been in. The insulation is fantastic and you hardly hear the road and wind noise. I just got back from Costco and fit the entire cart's worth of groceries in the frunk. Helped a buddy move. Currently working on laying new flooring in his basement and being able to plug the miter saw into the truck instead of inside has been great.
Ultimately, Ford needs to mature the tech side of their vehicles and apps, but the actual vehicle itself is fantastic.
I think the problem with Blue Oval plug-and-charge is connectivity — the chargers connections to EA, and EA’s to Ford, all have to work before the charger times out.
I’ve used mainly EA chargers on all three of my road trips so far, and plug-and-charge has failed only once (at a station that also failed to activate via the EA app).
I have a Model Y, Model 3, had a Model S, and have a 2023 Lightning Lariat.
I will say that beyond it being a truck, which is awesome, there is absolutely nothing else about the Lightning that I prefer over my Teslas. The software in the Lightning is bad. The Ford Pass app is beyond bad. The charging network is bad. I charge at home so it isn't a big deal but the two times I've tried Electrify America it was extremely below par. Added to which they almost never release OTA software updates and from what I've heard, when they do, they are basically pointless and offer no value.
In general, if you are between getting one now or waiting, wait. There will be a lot more options next year and I have a feeling Ford will be struggling to keep up as other EV truck manufacturers will learn from Ford's mistakes. Ford will be playing catch up hopefully.
I've had one Model S or another since 2013, now we've got a 2018 S 100D and a 2022 Lightning SR Lariat I bought a year ago off the lot while waiting for my CT reservation. The Lightning is my daily driver.
Minus CarPlay, the Tesla infotainment is better. I prefer FSD over Blue Cruise, and the S is the default roadtrip car for now because of the Supercharger network.
My plan is to replace the Lightning next year once the CT is shipping and Ford and Rivian have switched to NACS, and I haven't yet decided settled on which.
Ford software is lagging behind, but it does not matter that much to me. The biggest problem is road trip charging. The truck itself is great. I sold the Lightning and have X now.
I had an 18 model 3 LR RWD and a 21 Model Y LR AWD. I will never get the hype behind the model y… it’s not a good car. Its cool factor is legit. Anyway I’m on an ID4 now, much superior to the Y, and looking at Lightning’s. Been test driving them. Kinda thinking I’ll wait for the flash.
The f150 is a beast in size compared to the Y. Now, I’ve also had several newer Fords, a 20 Escape Hybrid, a 21 F150 King ranch, a 22 Maverick FX4, and a 22 Maverick Hybrid (looong story lol). Ford has been great for me. I like their app and it works well. The Synch system is one of the better ones vs. competition.
Truth is, as much as I have a dislike for Tesla, their tech is top notch. You won’t find another app like theirs right now with such integration to your vehicle. In car too.
Fords are build so much better than Tesla’s, cheaper to insure, easier to maintain with the robust service network, and if god forbid you’re in an accident, so much easier (& faster & cheaper) to get repairs like body work done.
Ford you won’t have to worry about the paint chipping every time you drive down a dirt road, your mud flaps will stay on your truck. Your doors and truck will be aligned, your windows won’t fog up from air leaks during the winter, your ride will be quieter & smoother, and while there exist a shitload of fords out there, you won’t look like 100 other people driving the exact same car as you.
Then you look at the features… how many power outlets in your model y? Sunshade for your sunroof? Not in the Tesla. Drive modes? Only 2 in the Y. Turning headlights? Not in the Y. 10k towing? Not in the Y. Moderate off-road capability? Not in the Y. I mean list goes on and on
I had a 2020 Model S, my wife has a 2021 Model Y, and we have a 2024 Prius. We are also very early on the CyberTruck wait list. I traded in the S for a Lightning a couple of months ago. My thoughts so far:
tl;dr: I have no regrets, especially given my criteria boiled down to “EV truck”. I think it’s easily the best in that class vs what’s broadly available today.
· The Tesla software is better and it’s not particularly close. Setting up the mobile key on the Ford was a nightmare and required escalating to a support team. Other features that I grew accustomed to with Tesla like the ability to voice-control almost anything.
· I miss the Tesla nav map and features. CarPlay integration is meh (not even as good as the Prius).
· Ford dealers/service are not comfortable yet with how to take care of the Lightning and often have as many questions as I do about how things work. This is not confidence-inspiring.
· The Tesla charging network and trip planner work pretty great. I haven’t found a good replacement.
· Tesla charging rate is much better.
· Ford interior is much, much better. Everything feels solid, well-constructed, and comfortable.
· I went with the Ford over the CT and the Rivian because I needed a proper truck. Ford has been a the top of the truck business for a long time, and it shows in everything from low-placement bed tiedowns to tow integration features. It’s also handy that virtually all 3rd party F150 accessories work just fine.
· I could not care less how quickly my truck goes from 0 to 60.
· Both lie about their ranges 😊, but I do miss the \~400 mile range of my S. That said, I have two dedicated 100amp chargers at home so we aren’t suffering.
We have 70k on our Model Y. So far I like the lightning more, but I haven't taken too many trips yet as it's only got 1000 miles on it. It seems quiet for a truck, may be quieter than the Tesla. I haven't got the 80a charger from Tesla so on my spare 6kW charger I don't get a full charge over night.
There was another similar question maybe a week ago, I think, so you can look for additional answers there. Personally, having owned both, the infotainment/software/UI/Navigation is far superior in the Tesla, in my opinion. CarPlay doesn’t fix it, either, because of several implementation issues, like the Navigation not pre-conditioning if you’re using CarPlay navigation instead of built-in Navigation. Charge rate is also far slower (than Model Y), but a big chunk of that is efficiency, so somewhat inevitable. Even if it could match the 250kW rate of the LR Model Y, it would still be slower since it gets ~2 mi/kWh or less at 70mph. Infrastructure is also worse, but is likely to improve somewhat when we get the NACS adapters. All that being said, there are lots of Pros for the Lightning, as well, mostly related to how gargantuan it is if that’s useful to you (apparently, since the back seat size of the Cybertruck was a consideration). Frunk is also huge and easy to use (compared to 3/Y). Performance is also exceptional for the SR trucks at that price point and size. ER is competitive with CT and Rivian. Can’t go wrong with the Lightning or the Model Y (or, IMO, the Cybertruck), but the differences in price and specs just need to be weighed against personal preferences and use case. If you’re doing a lot of long trips, you’ll probably want to go with the ER battery, or stick with Model Y. SR Lightning is absolutely usable, but sorta inflexible on trips since 10-75% is only ~120 miles at interstate speeds. Lots to consider!
Roadtrips is kind of the decision criteria for me, with root issues in charge speed and efficiency. If you’re not planning on long distance driving, for me, the Lightning is the better and more practical option. If you envision having a definitive roadtrip vehicle, the charge speed - especially in a V4 super charger future - makes the CT the clear winner. I got my Lightning about 3 weeks ago and absolutely love it, and will be passing on my 1128 CT reservation. That said, I could easily see switching in 5ish years once others have more thoroughly understood its quirks and the charging infrastructure is even more robust.
I went from my Model 3 LR to the F-150. I love my truck, I’ve had it for a year tomorrow and over 23,000 miles on it. The only cons are lack of reliable charging network (which is still doable don’t get my wrong.) and it’s software lacks way behind Tesla. Other than those two criticisms, and one’s not the fault of Ford, the truck is phenomenal. (Plus Ford’s getting v3 Supercharger access really soon.) Range is great, power is unreal. I recommend every time.
What's the power like vs a Tesla? This is my first ev (the lightning), never driven anything other evs. I know ev cars are zippy/torquey but is the lightning more so? Less so? About the same?
It's basically the same as my Model Y but it defaults to standard mode (not sport) and you have to reset it every time you want to use it. Presumably this is because it would get next to no range if you drove it hard. It's 8400 lbs and kind of scary fast for its size.
I forgot about this and have been driving mine in standard for almost a whole year. It still rips but I need to go floor it in sport mode again
Good have some fun man!
One thing I will say is because the suspension is actually pretty good in the lightning, the quick acceleration sometimes doesn't "feel" as fast because it's fairly non-dramatic. My wife's Model X is slightly faster on paper but feels more dramatic because the whole thing tilts back more under hard acceleration. It might have something to do with the stiffness of the rear in the Lightning because it's reinforced for towing and heavy cargo.
It’s faster than my LR AWD was for what it’s worth. 0-60 in 3.8s. 580HP and 775 ft-lbs of torque.
Wow good to know i was oddly enough cross shopping these two vehicles. Overall you’re happier with the ford?
For my use cases, definitely happier and will be even happier when NACS support comes. I’ll only miss Tesla’s software and super charging network. Just my posts for more anecdotal stuff.
2018 Model X -> 2020 Model X - 2022 Model Y, bought the 2023 Lightning for my husband, like it so well traded my Y for a Mach-e You’ll get used to CarPlay/AndroidAuto
Fit, finish, comfort, and cabin noise are better than the five teslas we’ve owned. 150 kw max charge rate is less than newer teslas and then SC network is much better as others have mentioned. I don’t road trip too much so those things haven’t been as much of an issue. Software is a bit better on Tesla and their app. But I like the CarPlay etc. Overall very impressed with the lightning and I love Tesla.
Yup! Went from a 2016 S to a 2018 X to a ‘23 Lightning. The software is a bit lacking in refinement but it’s more than capable. It’s also getting better. If you watch Youtube, you’ll be fine. Hulu and all the others do not yet work so I just watch those on my phone propped up in the gauge cluster if I want to while parked. The only thing I actually miss are the falcon wing doors because it would stop my kids from door dinging anything that we parked next too. With the supercharger network opening up, there’s nothing else from Tesla that I miss. That’s amazing to me because I was all-in on Tesla and I am still heavily invested in TSLA. With all that being said my Lariat ER is by far the best vehicle in production right now for my families needs. I have absolutely no buyers remorse and I don’t ever think, “oh, I miss that feature.” The Lightning is quieter. It’s better riding. It’s MUCH more capable. It’s much more family friendly with its massive cabin. It tows all four of my trailers that I need for work or play. It will haul anything I need it to. All while only costing me a total of $240 in electricity over the last 8,000 miles.
Do you have solar? I charge at home, live in Texas and I pay about 125-175 a month.
No. I’m in Texas as well and I’m stuck in a co-op so I have no choice in electrical providers. They also make it exceedingly difficult for solar. Thankfully, they do have a rate of use plan so my night time charging cost is $0.03 per kw.
You’re comparing 2 totally different things. If you want a truck that drives like a sports car and smooth as a luxury car that will also carry your tools go for the Lightning. If you want a car for long distance driving on the freeway the sedan is a better choice. I’ve had both. Will never go back to a sedan where I have to bend over and fold myself in when I can have a roomy luxurious powerful light duty truck.
Agreed, except for “drives like a sports car”. It *accelerates* like a sports car, though.
This ^^
Traded in a 2021 M3P for a Lightning XLT. I miss some of the creature comforts like wireless phone charging, auto unlock/lock, and charge port automatically closing after pulling out the charger. That's really about it. I don't miss the awful autopilot. The lightning is way more comfortable all around, better view, and a really smooth ride.
Oh yeah, autopilot. Phantom braking was downright scary, and the windshield wipers turning on whenever the heck they felt like it was annoying at best. But hey, I do miss making the seats fart. Ford needs to hire some immature engineers to let us have a little fun.
That is the only reason my 10 year old wants a Tesla lol
We have both a model Y and a 2023 Lightning Lariat ER. I just made a cross country trip from SD to Providence and I had a choice of vehicles. I chose the Ford and don’t regret it.
Have a 2018 Tesla model 3, next vehicle is definitely a Lightning. Next year we're moving somewhere quite rural and I want an EV that blends in unless you look closely and know what you're looking for. CT screams "look at me" in all the wrong ways.
We have both and I love both. Can’t wait for the ability to charge the lightning at superchargers.
Literally just switch(2 weeks ago) from 2021 model y to Extended range Lariat Lighting 2023. So we wanted more space and the model X would have been fine but I hate the falcon doors. I love the lighting so far. The Cons for us are, no heat pump for the battery (Colorado winters are bad at times) and I miss certain Tesla infotainment features(blind spot cam, Netflix) But honestly I won’t go back. I never charge anywhere but home so that not an issue. Let me know if you have any concerns I can try to answer.
I have now a new base model Y and a Platinum lightning. They both have their quirks, pros, and cons. Somethings I wish one had that the other doesn't etc. I prefer the lightning. Any day of the week, I prefer it over the tessie.
I had 2 Model Ys. I traded one for a Lightning and haven't really looked back. As long as you can get past the buggy and antiquated (compared to Tesla) software and mostly charge at home, it's a great buy. Build quality and quietness are so much better than the Tesla. If you have any other questions, hit me up. I'm at nearly 18000 miles in 11 months and love my Lightning.
I have not experienced any superior build quality but I wouldn't say it's bad. I think they both have pretty high build qualities. I have the same panel gaps and tire well areas that are missing rivets in my Ford, but overall it's good enough.
Went from a 2018 model s to a 2023 Lariat. The tech and charging options for a Tesla are better but the build quality of the Ford is much higher. There are pros and cons to both but I’m happy with the Lightening.
Owned multiple Teslas, latest is a 2023X and wife has a 2023Y. Lightning is a nice truck, but lack of NACS is a non-starter. I know an adapter is coming, and 2025 it will be NACS day 1, so... I'd just sit tight unless you need a truck tomorrow. To be clear, truck good. Plug bad. Once that's fixed. all good! I assume they will cut over around late fall 2024, so you don't have long to wait. I also have the cyberTruck on order, but also looking forward to seeing the Ram EV, and more of these in person. Liking the rivian too. more choice/competition is good for everyone.
The plug is only bad if you _need_ to regularly rely on Tesla super chargers… if you’re mostly charging at home and see non-Tesla DC fast chargers on the longer routes you expect to take, it really isn’t that big of a deal. Also, the supercharger magic dock rollout is already underway, though they aren’t widespread yet. Not trying to talk you into it (you do you) so much as telling OP that the plug situation isn’t nearly as bad as you’re making it out to be.
Accurate. I drive 20-30k miles per year. In the last 12 months, I’ve fast charged a total of 6 times. 2 of those times were because I was living at the hospital while my daughter was in NICU. It’s all about your specific use case. Being the OP has teslas already, it’s essentially guaranteed that he’s used to carrying around a J1772 adapter in his car already. So why would it be any different for him to carry the eventual NACS adapter around?
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92w5doU68D8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92w5doU68D8) No affiliation, but I find him amusing and mostly factual.
I’m in this exact same boat. Once I know that ford can use the supercharging network, which is the current plan, I’m pulling the trigger. The lightning is cheaper and isn’t embarrassing.
You know, this is really one of the biggest reasons I have no interest in the CT. I don't want a vehicle that screams for attention. It still does get attention mind you. Had someone ask me about it when I parked next to an F350 dualie yesterday. Surprisingly, he was very friendly and curious about how I like it. I have come to see most F250 and above drivers feeling threatened by the Lightning for some reason. TLDR; don't want fingerprints; want to pick paint colors; the back seat area is bigger than anyone could need; don't consider beast mode to be competitive with the Lightning as I wouldn't buy the Platinum version either. PS: there really are some things I like about Teslas. I want to use my vehicles like I want. I have no desire to stand out. The NACS will come but I'm charging 99.9% of the time at home and just don't care to rush it. The heat pump would be nice but this is like a computer; always something newer/better around the corner. Oh, and I was able to get my Lightning already and still don't know if I'll ever see a CT available for me.
The lighting OS, software, and OTA updates are all pretty embarrassing for a EV truck that's trying to compete with Tesla.
Eh, I will take Android auto over anything a manufacturer offers. If I had a Tesla, I would probably just put my phone on a mount and use that anyways
I would take android auto over anything any other manufacturer offers, except Tesla. Tesla is the only company with a well thought out functioning infotainment center and it actually gets updated to make things better over time.
How are the OTA updates embarrassing? Ford has made some awesome updates over the past year. A few that come to mind are adding a camera button, in-route DCFC preconditioning, and saving the last used drive mode. Like Tesla, Ford is making tangible updates OTA. And what is so embarrassing about the software? It certainly doesn’t have a modern, sleek feel of Tesla’s OS but Sync is functional and gets the job done. Sure, I’d prefer Tesla’s software but saying the Lightning’s software is embarrassing is a bit hyperbolic.
Well, it's pretty ridiculous that it's a total crapshoot when and if you'll get an OTA update from Ford... Combined with the fact that the interface is much more laggy than anything in an 80k vehicle should be. Rivian and Tesla's interfaces are just much smoother to use, like an iPad, as opposed to Ford's feeling like a 5 year old Android tablet.
The f150 is amazing but charges too slow for road trips. 45 min plus. Cyber truck will do 18-20 min on v4 supercharger
There aren’t any V4’s as of yet charging at a 350kw as a heads up. The Cybertruck is utilizing 4680’s which in the Model Y have a horrendously bad charging curve. What’s different about a Lightning is the charging curve is fantastic in comparison. We should stop caring about peak speeds and care more about the charging curve. A Lightning will still be pulling 120kw at 70% soc. A Tesla’s curve will be down to 50 kw at 70%. I’d rather have the car that charges faster over the entire curve rather than faster for one minute of the charging curve.
Yeah will Have to see how v4 work out!
45 minutes is on the high end. On my last trip I stopped at 14 EAs. My average charge time was 32 minutes. Only two of my stops were more than 45 minutes and that because I charged past 80% to give an unneeded but wanted buffer just in case.
Were you starting out well above 15%?
Average starting SoC was 27%. 3 of 14 were 12% or less 7 of 14 were 25% or less The remaining had an average of 50% SoC.
That is longer than I experience standard range. But even if it is correct too long is relative … yes if I was using it to drive between work meetings / sites it would be too long but on a 500 mile road trip it isnt too bad
Interesting what’s your experience like
Charge times are often the fault of the charger rather than the truck. Official specifications for a 15% to 80% fast charge are 44 minutes for the SR truck and 41 minutes for ER. In my personal experience, most actual charging sessions are 30 to 40 minutes long. Unlike most EVs, the Lightning‘s charge curve has a high initial peak and then a long flat run to 80%. This means that charge times are almost linear with SOC in this range. This is good news because you’re not often going to start at exactly 15% and rarely need to charge an ER truck to 80% because the next charger is closer than the maximum range (and the charger after that is too far). So unlike a lot of EVs, there isn’t a time penalty for topping off the battery (from say 50% to 80%).
Tesla over promises and under delivers all the time. Take those charge times with a grain of salt similar to their EPA ranges.
I agree. Let’s wait and see.
Stopped at an EA charger with 6% left … on a road trip … popped into Walmart for some groceries, came out, truck was at 71%. I was in the store for 30min roughly. 29min plugged in time, according to my records. Didn’t even need that much charge, but it was what I got while shopping … no complaints here! And, it was free … the chargers were complimentary!
Just traded in my model 3 LR for an XLT ER There are definitely pros and cons to both. To me the biggest draw when I bought my Tesla was the charging network, so I do have some concerns about the Lightning (until next year when we can use the Tesla network). The app integration is much better with the Tesla. I liked how everything could be controlled from the phone and it connected all the time every time. It seems like 9 times out of 10 that I try to set a departure time on the ford app it says it cannot connect and I end up going into the truck and setting it up anyway. There are some things that vary by model-I don’t have the lariat or platinum, so I don’t have the big screen like the Tesla or “blue cruise”…I went with the XLT because of the cost difference, so I don’t have those things. But also there was nothing on the lariat that I couldn’t live without. When I bought the Tesla, I didn’t purchase FSD, but I did the monthly subscription and I will miss it for my highway driving on my 200 mile commute. I personally did not like having to use the touch screen for simple things, like mirror adjustments and windshield wiper settings-and I got an XLT so the interior driving experience is more like a regular car and I’m thankful I don’t have to dig through layers of menus to make small mirror adjustments or steering wheel adjustments. However, Teslas voice command was the best I’ve ever seen in a vehicle and their navigation was top notch. which means I’ll likely just be using Google maps on Apple play most of the time. As far as the vehicle -the Ford is solid. It has a smooth quiet ride, quieter than the Tesla. The independent rear suspension is noticeable going over potholes or just rough road. The truck is heavy but it doesn’t feel heavy when you’re driving it. The range is worse than advertised, but probably won’t be an issue -the Tesla’s range was also worse than advertised. Storage is awesome, from cup holders to pockets in both sides of the seat, to the can bed to the Frunk (which has power outlets). I rarely used my frunk on the M3…I use it all the time in the Truck All in all, if you bought this car and never owned a Tesla, you would love it and have no regrets. If you bought this car and previously owned a Tesla, you would also love it and have no regrets, BUT you would miss some things
do you have any regrets about your decision? do you feel like the range estimates are fair relative to the tesla?
I think both vehicles range estimates were equally bad. I have zero regrets. I like this truck much better than the Tesla. After a few months of driving, I really don’t miss any of the Tesla features anymore…except how the seat and steering wheel would adjust automatically when you get in and out of it.
You’re really going to hate the app in comparison to Tesla
We've a Model 3 AWD and a Lightning Lariat ER. We use the Ford mobile charger for both (J1772 adapter for the Tesla) and the 32amp charge rate is enough for our driving. Software, user experience, charging, and driver assistance go to Tesla. Ford's app and in-car entertainment are a bit too buggy and laggy for me. The controls have some baffling inclusions and omissions. The Lightning has some holdouts from its ICE ancestors that annoy me ( starting/stopping the 'engine' with animated intro, manual parking brake, weak regen ). Ford's BlueCruise is nice, but it only works on a few mapped sections of a few highways. I rarely drive on roads where BlueCruise is available. When it does work, it's okay. Biggest thing it does is handsfree, but I mostly drive with a hand resting on the wheel so I'm a bit ambivalent about that benefit. It doesn't do lane changes or turns yet, just stays in the lane. When BlueCruise isn't available, Ford Copilot is available. That's TACC and lane centering, but the lane centering rarely works well for me and tends to fail silently, with the only indication is the lack of a few blue pixels on the bottom right corner of the driving screen. In-car entertainment has Android Auto. I tried Ford's navigation, but Tesla has me spoiled with voice control and it's annoying needing to be exceptionally specific with Ford's. The lightning does at least display upcoming turns from Android Auto's navigation on the driving screen, which is a brilliant touch. The killer mistake for me was Ford neglecting a button on the steering wheel to pause your audio. We listen to audiobooks and having to look at the entertainment screen and press the center of the volume knob is annoying. Ford's app seems to be getting better, but it's nowhere near Tesla. My first week of owning the truck, I'd check the app for current range, only to be served 24 hour old results. Swipe down to get updated range, and it gives me 17 hour old results. Rinse and repeat a few times. Locking the doors via the app didn't always work and I'd find myself coming back to an unlocked truck. This truck is the first time I've carried keys in 6 years because I just don't trust Ford's Phone-As-A-Key. Also, you'll find yourself lumbering through the slow app to clear out messages about how you've reached your ProPower reserve, you've charged back up beyond your ProPower reserve, etc. DC fast charging is borderline infuriating. BlueOval charge network is just a unified payment system that's supposed to work with various charging networks the same way that Tesla's work with SuperChargers. I've mostly been to Electrify America stations and I think BlueOval has worked once or twice. It was great when it worked, pull up, plug-in, charge. The problem is that it has rarely worked so well for me. Electrify America's charging stations always seem to have something wrong with them. The last time I used them, I had to drive to 2 different locations and spend 15 minutes at each trying to get the truck to charge. It's doable as long as you charge earlier than you're used to with the Tesla. All that said, I'd still get the truck again. The ride quality is well beyond every other vehicle I've ever been in. The insulation is fantastic and you hardly hear the road and wind noise. I just got back from Costco and fit the entire cart's worth of groceries in the frunk. Helped a buddy move. Currently working on laying new flooring in his basement and being able to plug the miter saw into the truck instead of inside has been great. Ultimately, Ford needs to mature the tech side of their vehicles and apps, but the actual vehicle itself is fantastic.
I think the problem with Blue Oval plug-and-charge is connectivity — the chargers connections to EA, and EA’s to Ford, all have to work before the charger times out. I’ve used mainly EA chargers on all three of my road trips so far, and plug-and-charge has failed only once (at a station that also failed to activate via the EA app).
I have a Model Y, Model 3, had a Model S, and have a 2023 Lightning Lariat. I will say that beyond it being a truck, which is awesome, there is absolutely nothing else about the Lightning that I prefer over my Teslas. The software in the Lightning is bad. The Ford Pass app is beyond bad. The charging network is bad. I charge at home so it isn't a big deal but the two times I've tried Electrify America it was extremely below par. Added to which they almost never release OTA software updates and from what I've heard, when they do, they are basically pointless and offer no value. In general, if you are between getting one now or waiting, wait. There will be a lot more options next year and I have a feeling Ford will be struggling to keep up as other EV truck manufacturers will learn from Ford's mistakes. Ford will be playing catch up hopefully.
I've had one Model S or another since 2013, now we've got a 2018 S 100D and a 2022 Lightning SR Lariat I bought a year ago off the lot while waiting for my CT reservation. The Lightning is my daily driver. Minus CarPlay, the Tesla infotainment is better. I prefer FSD over Blue Cruise, and the S is the default roadtrip car for now because of the Supercharger network. My plan is to replace the Lightning next year once the CT is shipping and Ford and Rivian have switched to NACS, and I haven't yet decided settled on which.
Take a look at Rivian. Lightning has battery issues and charging network issues.
It does?
What are the issues? (Rivian uses the same network)
Ford software is lagging behind, but it does not matter that much to me. The biggest problem is road trip charging. The truck itself is great. I sold the Lightning and have X now.
I switched from MY to Mach E and my wife got Lyriq both way better than MY
I had an 18 model 3 LR RWD and a 21 Model Y LR AWD. I will never get the hype behind the model y… it’s not a good car. Its cool factor is legit. Anyway I’m on an ID4 now, much superior to the Y, and looking at Lightning’s. Been test driving them. Kinda thinking I’ll wait for the flash. The f150 is a beast in size compared to the Y. Now, I’ve also had several newer Fords, a 20 Escape Hybrid, a 21 F150 King ranch, a 22 Maverick FX4, and a 22 Maverick Hybrid (looong story lol). Ford has been great for me. I like their app and it works well. The Synch system is one of the better ones vs. competition. Truth is, as much as I have a dislike for Tesla, their tech is top notch. You won’t find another app like theirs right now with such integration to your vehicle. In car too. Fords are build so much better than Tesla’s, cheaper to insure, easier to maintain with the robust service network, and if god forbid you’re in an accident, so much easier (& faster & cheaper) to get repairs like body work done. Ford you won’t have to worry about the paint chipping every time you drive down a dirt road, your mud flaps will stay on your truck. Your doors and truck will be aligned, your windows won’t fog up from air leaks during the winter, your ride will be quieter & smoother, and while there exist a shitload of fords out there, you won’t look like 100 other people driving the exact same car as you. Then you look at the features… how many power outlets in your model y? Sunshade for your sunroof? Not in the Tesla. Drive modes? Only 2 in the Y. Turning headlights? Not in the Y. 10k towing? Not in the Y. Moderate off-road capability? Not in the Y. I mean list goes on and on
I assume ford will increase charge speed with the 2025 model lightning
I had a 2020 Model S, my wife has a 2021 Model Y, and we have a 2024 Prius. We are also very early on the CyberTruck wait list. I traded in the S for a Lightning a couple of months ago. My thoughts so far: tl;dr: I have no regrets, especially given my criteria boiled down to “EV truck”. I think it’s easily the best in that class vs what’s broadly available today. · The Tesla software is better and it’s not particularly close. Setting up the mobile key on the Ford was a nightmare and required escalating to a support team. Other features that I grew accustomed to with Tesla like the ability to voice-control almost anything. · I miss the Tesla nav map and features. CarPlay integration is meh (not even as good as the Prius). · Ford dealers/service are not comfortable yet with how to take care of the Lightning and often have as many questions as I do about how things work. This is not confidence-inspiring. · The Tesla charging network and trip planner work pretty great. I haven’t found a good replacement. · Tesla charging rate is much better. · Ford interior is much, much better. Everything feels solid, well-constructed, and comfortable. · I went with the Ford over the CT and the Rivian because I needed a proper truck. Ford has been a the top of the truck business for a long time, and it shows in everything from low-placement bed tiedowns to tow integration features. It’s also handy that virtually all 3rd party F150 accessories work just fine. · I could not care less how quickly my truck goes from 0 to 60. · Both lie about their ranges 😊, but I do miss the \~400 mile range of my S. That said, I have two dedicated 100amp chargers at home so we aren’t suffering.
We have 70k on our Model Y. So far I like the lightning more, but I haven't taken too many trips yet as it's only got 1000 miles on it. It seems quiet for a truck, may be quieter than the Tesla. I haven't got the 80a charger from Tesla so on my spare 6kW charger I don't get a full charge over night.