Ford F-150 Lightning Beats Tesla Cybertruck as EV Truck Sales Stumble

Tesla’s Cybertruck faces a deepening crisis as new sales figures reveal a staggering third consecutive quarterly decline, cementing concerns over the polarizing electric pickup’s market viability. According to data from Cox Automotive, the stainless-steel truck sold just 4,306 units in Q2 2025, a 32% drop from Q1 and a devastating 50% plunge year-over-year. This marks its lowest quarterly performance since early 2024 and starkly contrasts with Tesla’s initial ambition to produce 250,000 units annually.

Ford’s F-150 Lightning, meanwhile, retained its position as America’s best-selling electric pickup despite its challenges. It moved 5,842 units in Q2, though sales dipped 26% year-over-year. In a symbolic upset, combined sales of GMC’s Hummer EV SUV and pickup (4,508 units) surpassed the Cybertruck for the first time, fueled by a 53.9% year-over-year surge. The Chevrolet Silverado EV also gained momentum with 3,056 sales, a 39% quarterly increase.

Why the Cybertruck Is Stalling

Industry analysts point to a confluence of factors behind Tesla’s slump. The Cybertruck’s pricing remains a critical friction point: promised at $40,000 during its 2019 unveiling, its cheapest variant now starts at $70,000, with popular configurations nearing $100,000. “Elon Musk never succeeded in bringing down costs as promised,” notes Fortune, highlighting a disconnect with budget-conscious truck buyers.

Quality concerns have further eroded confidence. The Cybertruck has endured eight recalls in 2024 alone, including high-profile failures like detached body panels and accelerators sticking in the “down” position. Videos of trucks malfunctioning in car washes or losing power mid-drive have gone viral, undercutting claims of “apocalypse-proof” durability.

Brand perception may also be taking a toll. “Tesla is suffering a crisis of reputation as Musk drags its name through the mud with his chaotic dalliance with the Trump administration,” observes Futurism. Though unquantifiable, the association risks alienating environmentally progressive EV buyers.

Broader Market Headwinds

The electric pickup segment overall remains volatile. Rivian’s R1T recorded a 47% year-over-year collapse, selling only 1,752 units. Even Ford’s leadership is fragile; Lightning sales are down 9% year-to-date. Industry-wide, high prices and charging limitations continue to deter mainstream adoption.

Still, Tesla’s underperformance stands out. The company invested in capacity for 125,000+ annual Cybertruck build,s but will likely produce fewer than 20,000 in 20,25. Cox Automotive reports nearly 3,000 unsold Cybertrucks languishing in U.S. invent,ory a sthat ign demand is nowhere near initial reservations for 2 million units.

What Comes Next?

With the $7,500 federal tax credit expiring in September, Q3 may offer temporary relief. Long term, however, Tesla faces hard choices. As Electrek notes, its Texas factory now operates at “less than 10% capacity” for Cybertruck production, a costly misstep.

“The second half of 2025 will be a critical test,” says Stephanie Valdez Streaty, Cox Automotive’s senior analyst. “Q3 will likely be a record, followed by a collapse in Q4”. For now, the Cybertruck’s future hinges on addressing quality, affordability, and brand trust, a steep climb in an increasingly competitive arena.

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