Electric Trucks Tested: Tesla Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chevy Silverado EV Go the Distance at 70 MPH
At InsideEVs, we have a strong appreciation for range tests. In fact, our friends at Out of Spec Reviews have recently conducted a vital one. This test features nearly all the electric pickup trucks that are currently available in the American market, with the purpose of determining if their advertised ranges can truly be achieved. Additionally, there is a mobile DC fast charger utilized with the help of a diesel generator, making it a unique and uncommon sight.
At the beginning of this page, you can find a video showcasing the Tesla Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. These four vehicles were tested by driving them at a constant speed of 70 miles per hour on a loop, in order to determine their maximum range on a full charge.
The testing method utilized by Out of Spec Reviews, as outlined on their website, involves fully charging an electric vehicle (EV) using a DC fast charger, adjusting the tire pressure to the recommended level by the manufacturer, opting for the most fuel-efficient driving mode, and choosing the eco-friendly option for the air conditioning system at a temperature range of 68 to 72 degrees. This ensures that the A/C is activated, but with the lowest fan setting to conserve energy.
The journey begins in Wellington, Colorado and continues along I-25 to Cheyenne, Wyoming before heading west on I-80 towards Nebraska. The electric vehicles (EVs) are maintained at a steady pace of 70 miles per hour, confirmed by GPS, and the drivers double back once the battery reaches approximately 55% state of charge (SoC).
According to Kyle Conner, the founder of Out of Spec Reviews, their usual protocol when the battery is almost depleted is to utilize frontage roads. However, in this particular instance, they remained on the highway until the vehicles came to a complete standstill. This was due to the fact that they had a portable charger attached to a trailer, readily available for assistance.
Moving on to the topic of trucks, the Tesla Cybertruck boasts a tri-motor design and is named the “Cyberbeast.” It comes equipped with 35-inch all-terrain tires and has been marketed to have a driving range of 301 miles when fully charged. In comparison, the Rivian R1T is a dual-motor truck that is not geared towards performance, but instead features a larger battery pack. This enables it to claim a higher driving range of 352 miles, even with all-season tires.
The Ford F-150 Lightning, which we reviewed, is equipped with the extended-range battery that boasts a 320-mile range when in operation. Our test of the Chevrolet Silverado EV features the 4WT trim with an impressive advertised range of 450 miles, thanks to its massive 215-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
The weather conditions throughout the duration of this test varied from 48 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
The duration of the video surpasses two hours, however, the outcomes are clarified from the very start. Regrettably, the Lightning proved to be the poorest performer with a range of only 282 miles, falling short of its 320 rating. Its efficiency was also lackluster, achieving only 2.1 miles per kWh. On the other hand, the highly anticipated Silverado EV took the lead with an impressive range of 434 miles, earning the title of “crazy impressive.” However, its efficiency was slightly lower than that of the Ford, clocking in at 2.0 miles per kWh.
The chart provided below is also available for your reference in reviewing the specifics.
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