The Ultimate Electric Truck Showdown: Rivian R1T vs. Tesla Cybertruck vs. Ford F-150 Lightning

Danfix
May 29
4 min read

As California continues to lead the nation in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, the competition among electric pickup trucks intensifies. The 2025 models of the Rivian R1T, Tesla Cybertruck, and Ford F-150 Lightning represent the forefront of innovation in this segment. This comprehensive comparison delves into their specifications, performance, and features to help you determine which electric truck best suits your needs in the Golden State.

Rivian R1T: The Outdoor Explorer’s Electric Dream

Imagine a truck designed specifically for adventurers, who want to conquer California’s rugged terrains without compromising on eco-conscious driving. That’s the Rivian R1T. Launched with a clear mission to blend off-road capability with modern electric performance, the R1T has quickly become a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Performance and Power The Rivian R1T offers three powertrain options: a Dual-Motor delivering 533 horsepower, a Performance Dual-Motor at 665 horsepower, and a Tri-Motor variant boasting a staggering 850 horsepower. This last option blasts from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds — a sprint that rivals many sports cars, but with the rugged build of a serious truck. The AWD (all-wheel-drive) system ensures you can tackle mountain passes, forest trails, or sandy beaches with confidence.

Range and Charging Range anxiety is minimized with the R1T’s impressive maximum range of up to 405 miles on a single charge (Tri-Motor with Max battery). Plus, it’s compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network, which is a huge plus here in California, where fast and convenient charging infrastructure is critical.

Utility and Features Not just about speed and range, the R1T can tow up to 11,000 lbs and carry a payload of nearly 2,000 lbs — enough for your California camping gear, bikes, or even small boats. Inside, the cabin boasts a modern, minimalist design focused on durability and comfort. Advanced driver-assistance technologies with multiple cameras and radar sensors offer enhanced safety on highways and backcountry roads alike.

Price Point Starting at around $73,000 for the Dual-Motor model, with the high-end Tri-Motor Max version pushing near $100,000, the R1T is a premium offering — but one packed with value for the serious adventurer.

Tesla Cybertruck: The Bold Futurist’s Choice

The Tesla Cybertruck is unmistakable. With its angular, stainless steel exoskeleton and futuristic silhouette, it stands apart on California roads and highways. Tesla has redefined the pickup truck’s image, merging ultra-modern technology with high performance, creating a vehicle that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Performance and Power Offering a Dual-Motor AWD at 600 horsepower and a Tri-Motor “Cyberbeast” packing 845 horsepower, the Cybertruck is no slouch. The “Cyberbeast” accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering under 3 seconds — thrilling for anyone who loves speed without sacrificing utility. The AWD system and advanced suspension make it surprisingly adept off-road despite its edgy design.

Range and Charging Tesla’s Supercharger network is unparalleled in California, making the Cybertruck’s range of up to 340 miles (Dual-Motor) very practical for long trips or daily commuting. The fast charging capabilities mean less downtime and more road time.

Utility and Features The Cybertruck can tow up to 11,000 lbs and has a maximum payload of 2,500 lbs, slightly edging out the Rivian in carrying capacity. Inside, the Cybertruck is minimalist but high-tech, featuring an 18.5-inch central touchscreen, steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, and Tesla’s Full Self-Driving suite (optional) that brings semi-autonomous driving closer to reality.

Price Point Starting at $69,990 for the base model and reaching about $120,000 for the Tri-Motor Cyberbeast, the Cybertruck offers a range of pricing that accommodates both budget-conscious buyers and tech enthusiasts ready to invest in top-tier innovation.

Ford F-150 Lightning: The Electric Workhorse for Every Californian

Ford has long been synonymous with rugged, reliable trucks, and the F-150 Lightning doesn’t disappoint. It reimagines the classic F-150 with electric power, delivering performance and utility tailored for traditional truck buyers who are eager to transition to electric without losing their familiar ride.

Performance and Power The F-150 Lightning comes with two motor options: a standard 452 horsepower Dual-Motor AWD, and an Extended-Range 580 horsepower Dual-Motor. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds, impressively quick for its class.

Range and Charging With a range of up to 320 miles on the Extended-Range battery and access to Ford’s BlueOval™ Charge Network, as well as Tesla’s Superchargers (with an adapter), the Lightning makes daily driving and longer California trips feasible with growing charging infrastructure.

Utility and Features It boasts a towing capacity up to 10,000 lbs and a payload of 2,235 lbs, placing it in a strong position for work or play. Inside, the Lightning offers a familiar, comfortable cabin with modern tech touches like BlueCruise hands-free driving, Pro Power Onboard for mobile power supply, and Ford Co-Pilot360® safety features — perfect for daily commuting or hauling equipment.

Price Point With a starting price around $65,000 for the XLT trim and the Platinum trim climbing to about $87,000, the Lightning provides an affordable entry into the EV truck market for Californians seeking reliability with innovation.

California’s EV Truck Landscape: What’s Best For You?

Each of these electric trucks has carved out a unique niche, especially suited to different driver profiles in California:

The Adventurer (Rivian R1T): For those who want to explore California’s diverse landscapes — from Sierra Nevada mountains to desert trails — with rugged off-road capability and long-range freedom, Rivian offers a sophisticated, capable solution.
The Tech Enthusiast (Tesla Cybertruck): If you crave cutting-edge tech, futuristic design, and blistering performance combined with the convenience of Tesla’s supercharger network, the Cybertruck is the trailblazer for California roads.
The Practical Everyman (Ford F-150 Lightning): For traditional truck lovers who want the reliability and utility of the legendary F-150 but with zero emissions and modern tech, the Lightning strikes the perfect balance for daily tasks and weekend projects.

Wrapping It Up

California’s commitment to clean energy and electric vehicles is reshaping the pickup truck market. These three electric trucks — the Rivian R1T, Tesla Cybertruck, and Ford F-150 Lightning — exemplify how innovation, sustainability, and versatility can come together to create vehicles that meet a wide range of needs.

Whether you prioritize adventure, futuristic tech, or dependable everyday use, the future of trucks is electric and here in California, the road ahead looks electrifying.

If you want more info on electric trucks, or care tips for your EV, feel free to check back with us at Danfix — your local California auto care experts.