Los Angeles, CA — AAA’s latest study, released on June 13, demonstrates that heavy payloads can slash the range of an electric pickup by almost a quarter.
Truckers and owner‑operators watching the shift to electric vehicles are paying close attention to how weight affects mileage. The study’s findings are a stark reminder that the same physics that drag a gasoline rig also apply to a battery‑powered rig. Range anxiety has long been a barrier to EV adoption in the freight industry, and the new data shows that cargo weight can be the decisive factor on long hauls.
The test focused on Ford Motor Co.’s F‑150 Lightning, the company’s flagship electric pickup. Researchers loaded the vehicle with 1,400 pounds of sandbags—just 110 pounds shy of the truck’s maximum payload—then measured its range. Under those conditions, the Lightning’s estimated range fell from 278 miles to 210 miles, a 24.5% drop. The test took place on a 7.5‑mile oval track and a dynamometer at the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center in Los Angeles. Adrienne Woodland, AAA spokeswoman, noted that “range anxiety remains a top reason consumers are hesitant to switch from gasoline‑powered vehicles to EVs.” Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of automotive engineering, added that “most buyers will likely use their Lightning with a lighter load, resulting in a much smaller range reduction.”
What This Means for Drivers
CDL‑A holders who plan routes that stretch beyond 200 miles will need to factor in payload when selecting an EV. Owner‑operators who regularly haul heavy equipment or bulk materials may find that a fully loaded electric rig will require more frequent charging stops, potentially adding hours to a trip. Fleet managers can use the data to optimize load distribution or consider hybrid models for routes where weight is a critical constraint. The study also highlights that high‑speed highway driving and permanent loads like equipment racks reduce the effectiveness of regenerative braking, so drivers should plan charging points accordingly.
Industry Reaction
Ford’s response emphasized that the Lightning’s range under a near‑maximum load is an extreme scenario. “The test scenario represents a worst‑case situation for range,” the company said. AAA reiterated that electric vehicles remain a reliable choice for many motorists, urging buyers to match vehicle selection with typical payload and driving patterns. The findings have sparked discussions among trucking associations about the need for clearer guidelines on EV payload limits and charging infrastructure investment.
Key Points
- Heavy cargo can reduce an electric pickup’s range by up to 25%.
- The AAA test used 1,400 pounds of sandbags on the F‑150 Lightning, dropping its range from 278 to 210 miles.
- The study was conducted on a 7.5‑mile oval track and a dynamometer in Los Angeles.
- Ford sold out its entry‑level Pro model in 2023 and plans to produce 150,000 units.
Looking for a better trucking job? US Trucker's free job‑matching service connects CDL‑A drivers, OTR drivers, regional drivers, and owner‑operators with 500+ top US carriers. Leave your details in the form on this page and a recruiter will call you within one business day. Trucking companies are hiring now.