The 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning 4WD achieves 68 MPG combined, a figure that redefines expectations for a full-size pickup truck. This is an electric truck designed for demanding tasks and weekend getaways, achieving notable fuel economy with its battery electric powertrain.

City and highway performance

EPA ratings for the F-150 Lightning are 76 MPG in the city and 61 MPG on the highway. The higher city MPG results from the Lightning’s regenerative braking system, which captures energy when decelerating and returns it to the battery. This is a real benefit in stop-and-go traffic, boosting efficiency. Many Lightning owners report that their actual city MPG exceeds the EPA estimate. Even with the impact of aerodynamic drag at higher speeds, the highway figure is still impressive for such a large vehicle. These MPG numbers are good considering the size and capabilities of this pickup.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning 4WD will be $1,100. This estimate assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and uses national average electricity prices. Actual costs can vary greatly; your electricity rates, driving habits, and charging habits all play a role. Charging primarily during off-peak hours or at work can lead to even lower costs. On the other hand, if you mostly depend on public fast-charging, expect to pay close to, or perhaps more than, the EPA’s estimate. Check your local electric rates for a more precise prediction.

Real-world expectations

While EPA numbers provide a good starting point, the F-150 Lightning 4WD’s real-world MPGe depends on several things. Towing reduces range and efficiency, as does hauling heavy loads. Rapid acceleration and hard braking also lower efficiency. Ambient temperature is another factor; cold weather reduces battery performance and increases heater use, draining the battery faster. Milder temperatures usually mean better range and efficiency. When driving carefully and making good use of regenerative braking, drivers often report achieving numbers very close to, or better than, EPA estimates. Understanding that an EV’s range is strongly affected by load and towing is important for Lightning owners.

How it compares

The F-150 Lightning 4WD is much more efficient than its gasoline-powered relatives. The standard F 150 MPG across all years equipped with four-wheel drive and a gasoline engine struggles to reach 20 MPG combined, even with a smaller engine. The 2024 Ram 1500 4×4 mild-hybrid eTorque achieves around 21 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra 4×4 hybrid gets an estimated 22 MPG combined. These fuel expenses can matter when choosing a vehicle. Even the most efficient gasoline trucks are less efficient than the Lightning, which lowers running costs. The Rivian R1T, another electric pickup, achieves a combined MPGe of 74. It’s a slightly more efficient option, but it has a higher starting price and a different brand image. Its efficiency numbers make it a great alternative.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use regenerative braking modes. The Lightning provides different regenerative braking settings. Try them to find the one that works best for you. Maximizing regenerative braking can greatly increase city MPGe and overall range.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in by using the FordPass app to preheat or precool the cabin before you leave. This uses grid electricity instead of draining the battery, so you start with a full charge and maximize range.

Drive moderately. Avoid fast acceleration and keep a consistent speed on the highway. Rapid acceleration and hard braking use more energy. Smooth acceleration will really improve the Lightning’s efficiency. Avoid accelerating just to pass.

Check tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing efficiency. Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure for best performance. You can find the recommended pressure in the owner’s manual or on the door jamb.

Reduce cargo and towing when you can. Remove unnecessary weight from the bed and cabin, and streamline the aerodynamics of your load. If you are looking for all Ford fuel economy data, you might find that other Ford vehicles better suit your needs for regular trips to the grocery store. Less weight means more efficiency and greater range.