A combined 66 MPG makes the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum 4WD a startlingly efficient full-size pickup truck, especially when you consider it can tow up to 8,500 pounds and sprint to 60 mph in under 4 seconds. This isn’t your grandpa’s gas-guzzling workhorse. The Lightning Platinum offers performance and capability without the guilt associated with traditional pickup truck ownership. It’s a deliberate statement for those who need a truck but want to minimize their carbon footprint, and it showcases the advancements possible with electric vehicle (EV) technology.

City and highway performance

The F-150 Lightning Platinum 4WD distinguishes itself with an EPA-estimated 73 MPG in the city. This exceptional city MPG reflects the regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery. Stop-and-go traffic becomes an opportunity to replenish the battery, making it ideal for urban environments. On the highway, the Lightning Platinum achieves 60 MPG. While still impressive, the highway figure demonstrates the impact of aerodynamics and sustained high speeds on electric vehicle range. However, even at highway speeds, this all-electric pickup truck far outperforms its gasoline driven counterparts.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum 4WD at a mere $1,150. This figure is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, using the national average electricity price at the time of calculation. The Lightning Platinum’s low annual fuel cost is a major draw for buyers looking to escape the volatility and expense of gasoline. While home charging costs will vary depending on location and electricity rates, the potential savings compared to a traditional gasoline powered F-150 are substantial.

Real-world expectations

Remember, the EPA estimates are a standardized benchmark, and real-world range and efficiency can vary significantly based on driving habits, ambient temperature, payload, and towing. Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and cold weather can all reduce the vehicle’s efficiency. Conversely, smooth driving, moderate temperatures, and using the pre-conditioning feature (warming or cooling the cabin while plugged in) can help maximize range. The Lightning Platinum owner generally appreciates that the vehicle is less expensive to “fuel” than a ICE equivalent, even though achieving the exact EPA numbers in daily driving might be challenging. Smart driving strategies and diligent charging practices can maintain a satisfying level of efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size pickup trucks, the F-150 Lightning Platinum 4WD exists in a class of its own. If we look at similarly equipped, all-wheel drive, crew cab gasoline F-150s, you’ll be lucky to see half the MPG, and that’s before considering that you need to pay for gas and oil changes, so the savings quickly adds up. Even hybrid trucks like the F-150 PowerBoost struggle to compete, averaging around 25 MPG combined. The Rivian R1T, another all-electric pickup, achieves around 74 MPGe combined, which is comparable to the Lightning but typically comes with a steeper price tag. For those prioritizing outright efficiency in a pickup, there’s no comparison to the electric powertrain, view all Ford fuel economy data to see specific comparison of traditional engined ford trucks. The decision comes down to individual needs and preferences, but for buyers seeking a blend of capability and efficiency, the Lightning carves its own path.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Careful use of regenerative braking can significantly improve your overall efficiency. Anticipate stops and lift off the accelerator pedal early, allowing the motor to slow the vehicle and recapture energy. This becomes second nature over time, and it’s far more effective than relying solely on the brake pedal, which wastes energy in the form of heat.

Precondition the cabin while the vehicle is plugged in. This allows you to heat or cool the interior using grid power rather than drawing energy from the battery. Preconditioning can be done through the FordPass app and greatly enhances your range, particularly in extreme temperatures.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and high speeds. The instant torque of an electric motor makes it tempting to floor the accelerator, but doing so drains the battery quickly. Maintaining a steady pace and adhering to posted speed limits will dramatically improve efficiency.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the motor to work harder and reduces range. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and inflate them to the recommended level, and remember to check the F 150 MPG across all years.

Consider using the “Conserve” drive mode. This setting optimizes various vehicle systems to maximize range, often by limiting power output and adjusting climate control settings. It is a useful tool for extending your driving distance when needed, but comes at the expense of torque and may not be the best setting for towing or hauling.