Tesla Model Y vs. Ford F-150 Lightning: running cost
A Tesla Model Y is cheaper to run: about $729 a year versus $1,216 for a Ford F-150 Lightning at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $486 difference.
| Tesla Model Y | Ford F-150 Lightning | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 7,200 W | 7,200 W |
| Watt range | 1,440–11,500 W | 1,440–19,200 W |
| Typical use | 37 miles a day | 37 miles a day |
| Energy per year | 4,054 kWh | 6,757 kWh |
| Cost per hour | $1.30 | $1.30 |
| Cost per day | $2.00 | $3.33 |
| Cost per month | $60.78 | $101 |
| Cost per year | $729 | $1,216 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $1,764 | $2,940 |
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What drives the difference
- Tesla Model Y: The Model Y uses about 0.27-0.29 kWh per mile from the battery, about 0.30 at the wall; the best-selling EV in the US.
- Ford F-150 Lightning: The F-150 Lightning uses about 0.45-0.48 kWh per mile from the battery, about 0.50 at the wall; towing can double that.
Ways to cut either cost
Efficient 240 V charging overnight.
See options on AmazonCharges a large truck battery overnight.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a Tesla Model Y or a Ford F-150 Lightning?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a Ford F-150 Lightning costs about $1,216 a year versus $729 for a Tesla Model Y. That's $486 more, or 1.7× as much.
How many watts do Tesla Model Y and Ford F-150 Lightning use?
A Tesla Model Y typically draws 7,200 W (range 1,440–11,500 W). A Ford F-150 Lightning draws 7,200 W (range 1,440–19,200 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.