If you want an electrified version of the Ford F-150, you now have a few options for 2022. The most recent one is the all-electric Lightning model, boasting two electric motors and a maximum driving range of 320 miles. Ford also offers a hybrid F-150 model with a twin-turbo engine and improved gas mileage.

In a world where gas prices fluctuate wildly, it’s important to have a car with good mileage. However, truck drivers also want vehicles that don’t sacrifice too much towing capacity for efficiency. How much weight can each of these Ford trucks pull?

Towing capacities for the Ford F-150 Lightning and the F-150 Hybrid

According to Cars.com, each Ford F-150 Lightning can tow at least 7,700 lbs. With the Max Trailer Tow Package equipped, it can tow up to 10,000 lbs. 

The Ford F-150 Hybrid Limited has the highest towing capacity of the two trucks at 11,600 lbs. With the right upgrades, you can increase that capacity to 12,200 lbs.

However, Cars.com testing concluded that the Ford F-150 Lightning retains the most efficiency during tow jobs. When towing a 6,000-lb trailer, the F-150 Lightning only lost 4% of its estimated 317-mile range at 97% battery level. The Lightning’s electric powertrain stays silent throughout the drive, and you’ll get moving quickly thanks to its high torque output.

In contrast, the Ford F-150 Hybrid’s estimated mileage dropped to just 12.6 mpg when towing the same trailer. The F-150 Hybrid still has the longest driving range with a trailer, approximately 386 miles. Judging by its efficiency loss earlier, the F-150 Lightning with the biggest battery gets 170 miles of range while towing.

Hauling: which electrified Ford truck wins?

The Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat trim has a maximum payload capacity of 1,697 lbs and has a 5.5-ft bed. The cargo area is also highly functional, with tie-downs, LED lighting, and tailgate steps. While the Lightning only offers one cargo box size, the 2023 model can potentially haul up to 2,235 lbs.

The Ford F-150 Hybrid tested by Cars.com had a payload capacity of 1,362 lbs, with a potential maximum of 2,120 lbs. The Ford F-150 Hybrid also has a 6.5-ft bed option as well as the standard 5.5-ft offering.

Other comparisons between the F-150 Lightning and F-150 Hybrid

The Ford F-150 Lightning has two powertrain configurations, which are more powerful than the F-150 Hybrid. With the standard battery pack, the Lightning’s dual electric motors combine 462 hp and 770 lb-ft of torque. This battery gives the truck 230 miles of range.

Opting for the bigger battery pack, which grants the best towing capacity, gives the Lightning 118 extra ponies. Each Ford F-150 Lightning also comes with standard 4WD, which is optional on the Ford F-150 Hybrid. The Hybrid has a twin-turbo V6 capable of 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque, plus a ten-speed automatic gearbox. 

It has an estimated mileage of 25 mpg combined with an unladen cargo bed and FWD. The Ford F-150 Lightning with the extended range battery potentially averages 70 MPGe combined. The Platinum trim’s efficiency drops to 66 MPGe.

The Ford F-150 Lightning also includes more trailering features on the base trim, including a trailer hitch receiver and trailer sway control. Most F-150 Hybrid’s towing enhancements can only be purchased through packages.

The Ford F-150 Lightning still comes at a considerable premium, retailing for a minimum of $80,974 with the extended-range battery. The cheapest Ford F-150 Hybrid is at the Lariat trim level, which starts at $58,780. The Lightning pickup may be your best option if you’ve got the cash and want some extra power.