What is the carry capacity of the Ford F-150 Lightning?

The Ford F-150 Lightning can carry roughly 1,800 to 2,000 pounds of payload, depending on battery choice and configuration, with a maximum towing capacity up to about 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. Exact figures depend on the specific build, including battery size, cab/bed configuration, and option packages.

Payload capacity by battery option

Payload capacity is determined by the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and the added weight of the battery and equipment. The heavier Extended Range battery typically reduces payload relative to the Standard Range setup, even in the same cab/bed configuration.

How battery choice affects payload

Below are representative figures reported by Ford and automotive outlets for common configurations. Exact payload for your build is shown on the order sheet or window sticker.

• Standard-Range (SR) battery with crew cab and typical bed configuration: payload up to about 2,000 pounds.


• Extended-Range (ER) battery with the same cab/bed: payload typically around 1,800–1,900 pounds.


• Payload varies with trim, options, and drivetrain; actual payload can differ by several hundred pounds from these figures.

These figures illustrate how the ER battery adds weight and reduces payload in the same layout. For precise numbers on your specific build, consult Ford’s window sticker or configurator.

Towing capacity and practical considerations

The Lightning’s towing capability is competitive for a full-size electric pickup, with Ford listing a maximum towing rating of up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped, including the Extended Range battery and Max Tow Package. Real-world towing depends on gear, terrain, weather, and battery charge state.

When planning loads, drivers should consider both payload and tongue weight, since payload carries weight inside the truck while towing concentrates weight at the hitch. Heavy towing also reduces range more quickly, so plan for range loss and charging opportunities on long trips.

• Maximum towing capacity: up to 10,000 pounds with the Extended Range battery and Max Tow Package.


• With other configurations, towing is lower and depends on the selected options and package.

In practice, verify the exact towing and payload figures for your specific build, especially if you plan to haul heavy gear or tow large trailers regularly.

Summary

The Ford F-150 Lightning offers a payload range of roughly 1,800–2,000 pounds, depending on battery type and configuration, with a maximum towing capacity up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. Exact numbers vary by cab/bed setup and options, so always check the official build sheet or window sticker for precise specifications before towing or loading heavy payloads.

How much weight can a F-150 Lightning carry?

The Ford F-150 Lightning's weight capacity varies by trim and battery, with a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of up to 2,235 pounds. For example, the maximum towing capacity is for models with the extended-range battery and the Max Trailer Tow package, while the payload capacity is highest on the Pro and XLT trims with the standard-range battery. 
Towing capacity

• Maximum: 10,000 pounds with the extended-range battery and Max Trailer Tow package. 
• Standard-range battery: 7,700 pounds (for Pro and some XLT/Lariat models). 

Payload capacity

• Maximum: Up to 2,235 pounds (found on the Pro and XLT trims with the standard-range battery). 
• Extended-range battery: Payload capacity is lower. For example, the Lariat with the extended-range battery has a payload of around 1,952 pounds, and the Platinum trim is around 1,656 pounds. 
• Mega Power Frunk: Provides an additional 400 pounds of cargo space. 

What are the common problems with F-150 Lightning?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• Body Hardware. Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.
• EV Battery.
• Climate System.
• Suspension/Steering.
• Brakes.
• Drive System.
• Paint/Trim.
• Electrical Accessories.

Why is the F-150 Lightning not selling?

The Ford F-150 Lightning is not selling well due to a combination of high prices, slower-than-expected demand, and competition. Other factors contributing to the slowdown include the high cost of EV batteries, rising interest rates, and a lack of public education on EVs. Ford has also reduced production and offered dealer incentives to move slow-selling inventory.
 
This video discusses the reasons why F-150 Lightning sales are struggling: 56sTCcustomsYouTube · Jul 17, 2023
Reasons for slow sales

• High prices: The starting price was initially low, but higher-trim models and the overall cost of EVs have become a barrier for many buyers. 
• Lack of demand: Slower-than-expected demand led Ford to cut production. Initial reservations did not translate into immediate sales. 
• Rising interest rates: Higher interest rates make loans for expensive vehicles, like the F-150 Lightning, less affordable. 
• Stronger competition: New electric and hybrid trucks from Ram and Volkswagen will enter the market, increasing competition for the Lightning. 
• Charging infrastructure: Some drivers have concerns about the availability of fast-charging stations, especially for long-distance travel. 
• Range anxiety: For some users, the truck's real-world range drops significantly when hauling or towing, leading to range anxiety. 
• Dealer reluctance: Some dealerships are reportedly hesitant to sell EVs due to a lack of knowledge about the technology. 
• Recall and quality issues: The F-150 Lightning has experienced several recalls, including a significant steering issue that can cause a loss of control. 
• Production issues: Ford has had to halt production to address inventory issues and has had to reallocate workers from the Lightning plant to other facilities. 
• Market factors: A general downturn in the overall EV market, driven partly by competitors cutting prices, has also impacted sales. 

How much weight can my F-150 carry in the bed?

The F-150 bed weight limit, or payload capacity, typically ranges from 1,500 to over 3,300 pounds, depending on the specific configuration. Key factors that influence this include the cab style, engine, and drivetrain, with maximum capacities often found on Regular Cab models equipped with the Heavy-Duty Payload Package. Always check the yellow sticker on the driver's side door jamb for your specific truck's actual payload capacity. 
Factors that determine payload capacity

• Cab configuration: Regular Cab, Super Cab, and SuperCrew models have different weight capacities. 
• Engine and drivetrain: The engine size and whether it's a 2WD or 4x4 configuration will affect the payload. 
• Optional features: Any factory options or aftermarket accessories will reduce the actual payload capacity. 
• Bed length: The length of the truck bed can also play a role in the final payload number. 

How to find your truck's specific weight limit

• Check the door jamb sticker: The most accurate way to know your truck's payload capacity is to look for the yellow sticker on the driver's side door jamb. This will provide the specific weight limit for your exact truck configuration. 
• Use Ford's documentation: For a general idea, you can refer to Ford's official brochures or online guides for your model year, which will show maximum capacities "when properly equipped". 
• Consider the "Onboard Scales" feature: Some newer F-150 models have a feature that can help estimate the payload's weight while you're loading.