- A new video shows a sand drag race between the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck.
- The Ford is the clear winner, although we don’t know the specifications of each electric truck.
- Besides the power output, the AWD electronics and the tires play a decisive role in this kind of terrains.
An intriguing duel unfolded earlier this week in Washington between a Ford F-150 Lightning and a Tesla Cybertruck. The rival electric trucks faced off in a drag race on the sand, with the Ford clinching a decisive victory.
At the race’s outset, the heavyweight EVs grappled with traction issues in the thick sand. However, their AWD systems proved effective, enabling them to accelerate more swiftly on the more evenly trodden portion of the path ahead.
More: Tesla Cybertruck Shocks GMC Hummer EV In Drag Race
Although we lack specific details regarding the trim and specifications of each truck, the Ford notably outpaces the Tesla on the sand in this instance, crossing the finish line with a considerable lead.
The race purportedly took place at the Moses Lake Mud Flats & Sand Dunes in Washington State. A video was uploaded on the official Facebook page of the venue. Fortunately, it was filmed from an elevated position on the nearby sand dunes, providing a clear view of the race’s outcome.
Unlike drag racing on tarmac, which is generally easier and more predictable, sand introduces a whole new level of challenge for both the vehicle’s electronic systems and the driver. The software controlling AWD, traction control, and torque vectoring becomes equally crucial alongside power output and weight figures.
Furthermore, the type of tires fitted on each EV plays a decisive role in traction. While most EVs may have a “plug-and-play” nature, the skill of an experienced driver can still make a significant difference in such conditions.
In its most potent form, the F-150 Lightning has dual electric motors producing 580 hp (433 kW / 588 PS), when combined with the extended-range 131 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. According to Ford, the electric truck completes the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in less than 4 seconds.
More: Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast Vs $100k EV Pickup Rivals
On the other hand, the Tesla Cybertruck makes 600 hp (447 kW / 608 PS) in dual-motor AWD guise, or 845 hp (857 PS / 630 kW) in the flagship tri-motor Cyberbeast. The former accelerates from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.1 seconds while the latter needs only 2.6 seconds.
Naturally, those acceleration figures are flaunted under ideal tarmac conditions. So, anyone daring to forecast the performance gap between these trucks on different terrains might as well consult a crystal ball.