The pickup truck reigns supreme as the most sought-after passenger vehicle segment in the United States. For decades, Americans have been drawn to the practicality of pickups – their commanding driving position, off-road capabilities, and crucially, their impressive payload and towing capacities. Recent data from Car and Driver highlights this enduring popularity, revealing that trucks dominated the top three best-selling vehicles in the U.S. in 2023.
However, the landscape of pickup trucks is evolving, with hybrid options slowly but surely entering the market. Historically, the limited availability of hybrid pickup trucks in the U.S. stemmed from perceived business challenges. Higher initial costs and uncertainties surrounding long-term maintenance, particularly battery replacement expenses, have previously deterred both manufacturers and buyers, despite the obvious fuel efficiency benefits. But as electric vehicle technology advances and consumer acceptance grows, the market is experiencing a gradual but significant shift towards electrification, opening the door for hybrid pickup trucks.
Currently, the United States offers a selection of five hybrid pickup truck models, encompassing both mild and full hybrid systems. This article provides an in-depth look at these existing options and previews the exciting new hybrid pickup truck choices that await consumers in the near future.
Ford F-150 Hybrid (Current Model)
Ford F-150 Limited front three quarter with powerboost badge
Image: The Ford F-150 Limited hybrid pickup truck showcases its PowerBoost engine badge. The hybrid system pairs a gasoline engine with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery.
Specifications
The Ford F-150 Hybrid maintains the familiar外观 of the standard F-150, with the key distinction lying beneath the surface. It’s equipped with the robust 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid V6 engine. This engine is paired with a 46.5 hp electric motor, energized by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. This combined hybrid powertrain delivers a peak output of 430 horsepower and a substantial 570 lb.-ft. of torque. Since the 2024 model year, a 4×4 drivetrain has become standard for the hybrid variant, enhancing its all-weather capability.
Fuel efficiency is a major advantage of the F-150 Hybrid, achieving a combined 23 MPG, significantly surpassing the fuel economy of other F-150 powertrains. Furthermore, Ford’s Pro Power Onboard, a highly useful exportable power system, comes standard on the hybrid model. A 2.4 kW system with four 120V/20A outlets is included, and for those needing more power, a 7.2 kW system with six outlets is available. Despite its fuel-saving hybrid technology, the F-150 Hybrid retains impressive truck capabilities, boasting a towing capacity of up to 11,200 lbs and a payload capacity of up to 1,750 lbs.
Price
The Ford F-150 Hybrid is offered exclusively in the SuperCrew configuration, with bed length options of 5.5-ft or 6.5-ft. Trim levels include XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. Pricing for the Ford F-150 Hybrid starts at USD 58,065, inclusive of a USD 1,995 destination charge and a USD 695 acquisition fee.
Ford Maverick Hybrid (Current Model)
Ford Maverick front three quarter in velocity blue color
Image: The Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck in Velocity Blue, a popular and affordable hybrid truck option known for its fuel efficiency and compact size.
The Ford Maverick Hybrid stands out as the most budget-friendly hybrid pickup truck currently available in the United States. It offers exceptional value and quickly became a popular choice, ranking among the fastest-selling vehicles in 2023.
Specifications
The Maverick Hybrid’s powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with a liquid-cooled 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, positioned beneath the rear seats, and a 94 kW (126 hp) electric motor. The combined system delivers 191 horsepower, with the gasoline engine producing 155 lb.-ft. of torque. While Ford hasn’t officially released the combined torque figure, the electric motor contributes 173 lb.-ft., suggesting a combined output exceeding 200 lb.-ft. For the 2025 model year, Ford has expanded the Maverick Hybrid’s versatility by offering optional all-wheel-drive and the 4K Tow Package.
The Maverick Hybrid excels in fuel economy, achieving a combined 37 mpg (FWD MY2024). However, it’s important to note that its towing and payload capacities are lighter than the larger F-150 Hybrid. As a light-duty hybrid pickup truck, the Maverick offers a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 lbs, making it ideal for everyday tasks and lighter hauling needs.
Price
The Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck has a starting price of USD 28,685, which includes a USD 1,595 destination charge and a USD 695 acquisition fee.
Ram 1500 eTorque (Current Model)
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie towing a trailer
Image: The 2025 Ram 1500 Laramie demonstrates its towing capability, featuring the eTorque mild-hybrid system for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Ram introduced eTorque mild hybrid technology to the Ram 1500 truck lineup in 2019. While not a full hybrid capable of electric-only propulsion, the eTorque system enhances fuel efficiency. The Ram 1500 eTorque received a design refresh in November 2023, further solidifying its appeal.
Specifications
The Ram 1500 eTorque utilizes a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine producing 305 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque. The mild-hybrid system incorporates a belt-driven motor generator and a compact 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery pack operating at 48 volts. This system facilitates key fuel-saving features: engine start/stop, torque assist, and regenerative braking. The belt-starter generator contributes 9 kW and 90 lb.-ft. of torque to the powertrain.
The Ram 1500 eTorque achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 23 MPG in 2WD configuration and 21 MPG in 4WD configuration, offering a modest improvement in efficiency.
Price
The starting price for the Ram 1500 eTorque in the U.S. is USD 42,270, including a USD 1,995 destination charge.
Toyota Tundra Hybrid (Current Model)
2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone front three quarter showing hybrid badge
Image: The 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone, a powerful and capable hybrid pickup truck, prominently displays its hybrid badging.
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid marks the third strong hybrid pickup truck in the current U.S. market. Available in seven trim levels – SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, TRD Pro, and Capstone – the top five trims offer the potent iForce Max 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain. Base variants are equipped with a non-hybrid engine.
Specifications
The Tundra Hybrid’s powertrain delivers significant power, boasting a peak output of 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. The electric motor itself produces 48 hp and 184 lb.-ft., drawing power from a 288-volt NMC battery with a 1.87 kWh capacity. Power is delivered to all wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Tundra Hybrid is designed for robust off-road performance, with all trims featuring a 2-speed transfer case with high and low range, an automatic limited-slip differential (LSD), and an e-locking rear differential. It offers a maximum towing capacity of 11,450 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,680 lbs. Toyota estimates a combined fuel efficiency of up to 22 MPG (2WD) and 21 MPG (4WD). The hybrid system does add weight; the Tundra Limited i-Force V6 weighs 5,160 lbs., while the Tundra Limited i-Force Max V6 Hybrid weighs in at 5,710 lbs.
Price
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid has a starting price of USD 59,950, inclusive of a USD 1,945 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Toyota Tacoma Hybrid (Current Model)
2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra off-road
Image: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra, a hybrid pickup truck designed for off-road adventures, showcasing its rugged styling.
Following the hybridization of the Tundra, Toyota logically extended electrification to the Tacoma. This move aligns with Toyota’s broader commitment to introduce electrified versions across its Toyota and Lexus lineups globally by 2025. The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is available in a variety of configurations, including specialized trims designed for off-grid overlanding and high-performance desert racing.
Specifications
The Tacoma Hybrid features a distinct i-Force Max powertrain, combining a 2.4-liter single-turbo engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into an 8-speed transmission. This electric motor is powered by a 1.87 kWh NiMH battery pack. The hybrid system delivers a combined 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 lb.-ft. of torque, while achieving a combined EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 24 MPG.
Price
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid starts at USD 47,815, including a USD 1,495 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Scout Terra (Upcoming Model)
Scout Terra concept truck front view
Image: The Scout Terra concept truck, an upcoming extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) pickup, promises long-range capability with its innovative ‘Harvester’ technology.
The Scout Terra, a key model from Volkswagen Group’s revived Scout Motors brand, is slated to be available as both a fully electric vehicle (EV) and an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) for the American market. The EREV variant, featuring ‘Harvester’ technology, will utilize a small gasoline engine solely as a generator to recharge the battery pack, enabling a significantly extended driving range. Dual motors, one on each axle, will provide four-wheel drive. Scout Motors estimates the Terra EREV will achieve a total range exceeding 500 miles with a full battery and a full tank of gasoline.
While specific details for the EREV variant remain limited, Volkswagen Group has shared general specifications for the Terra. Built on a robust ladder-frame chassis, the Terra will be a full-size pickup truck with dimensions of 229.2 inches in length, 79.9 inches in width, and 77.7 inches in height (including antenna), and a wheelbase of 148.6 inches. It will feature a crew cab configuration and a 5 ft. 5 in. bed. The company projects a maximum payload capacity of nearly 2,000 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 lbs for their first pickup truck.
Production of the Scout Terra is planned to commence in Blythewood, South Carolina, starting in 2027.
Ram 1500 Ramcharger (Upcoming Model)
2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger front quarter view
Image: The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, an extended-range electric pickup, aims for a combined driving range of 690 miles, blending electric and gasoline power.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger represents the range-extender version of the Ram 1500 REV electric pickup. It employs a dual-motor setup, with one motor on each axle, delivering a combined 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque. To optimize efficiency, the front motor can deactivate when not required. An electronic locking differential will be available for the rear motor.
The Ramcharger’s powertrain primarily draws power from a 92 kWh battery pack. Complementing this is a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine coupled with a 130 kW generator, along with a 27-gallon fuel tank. The generator converts the engine’s mechanical energy into electricity, which is then inverted and directed to recharge the battery pack. In situations requiring peak power, the motors can utilize both battery and generator power.
The 1500 Ramcharger supports DC fast charging up to 145 kW, enabling approximately 50 miles of range to be added in about 10 minutes. Ram estimates an impressive combined range of 690 miles (electricity + gasoline). Performance figures are also notable, with a claimed 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.4 seconds, and towing and payload capacities of 14,000 lbs and 2,625 lbs, respectively.
Ram anticipates launching the 1500 Ramcharger in 2025.
Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Following a shift in strategy due to evolving EV market dynamics, GM has confirmed its commitment to plug-in hybrid vehicles for North America. As reported by Autoweek in February 2024, GM is fast-tracking the development of a Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid.
While GM has already introduced the Chevrolet Silverado EV, its market reception and profitability remain uncertain. With a starting price of USD 66,900 (excluding destination freight charge), the Silverado EV is positioned at a premium price point. Furthermore, its towing capacity of 10,000 lbs and payload capacity of 1,440 lbs are lower than the combustion-powered Silverado, which can tow up to 13,300 lbs and haul up to 2,260 lbs.
A Chevrolet Silverado PHEV could present a compelling option for buyers seeking to balance environmental considerations with the robust capabilities expected from a traditional pickup truck.
GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Mirroring the Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid, a GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is also under development at GM. This reflects GM’s strategic pivot towards semi-electrified vehicles that offer stronger near-term sales potential compared to full EVs. The GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is expected to share core technology with the Silverado PHEV, while differentiating itself with a more upscale design, premium interior materials, and advanced features.
Kia TV EREV (Upcoming Model)
The Ford Maverick Hybrid’s strong market reception has surpassed Ford’s initial projections, demonstrating significant consumer interest in compact hybrid trucks. Kia, known for its value-oriented models, is poised to potentially challenge Ford in this segment.
According to a report from The Korea Economic Daily in August 2024, Kia is developing a semi-electrified ‘Kia TV’ pickup truck, slated for production in 2028 or 2029. This model will be an EREV, utilizing an internal combustion engine solely to recharge the battery pack, functioning as a generator in a series hybrid configuration. The Kia TV aims for an electric range exceeding 329 miles (530 km) and a towing capacity of over 10,000 lbs (4,535 kg).
Hyundai TE EREV (Upcoming Model)
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz front three quarter live image on display
Image: The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, currently available only with gasoline engines, is anticipated to gain an electrified variant in its next generation, potentially an EREV.
Hyundai Motor Group’s future product plans also include a Hyundai TE EREV, likely sharing its platform and technology with the Kia TV EREV. It is speculated that this model could be a derivative of the next-generation Hyundai Santa Cruz. The Korea Economic Daily report indicates a similar production start timeline of 2028/2029 for the Hyundai TE EREV.
Jeep Gladiator 4xe (Upcoming Model)
Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed via a LinkedIn post the company’s plan to launch a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid in 2025.
Jeep Gladiator front three quarters in open air
Image: The Jeep Gladiator, known for its off-road prowess and open-air driving experience, will soon add a plug-in hybrid 4xe variant to its lineup.
The Jeep Gladiator 4xe is expected to adopt a similar powertrain to the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe PHEVs. These models combine a 2.0L gasoline engine with two electric motors powered by a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, producing a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission and 4WD system are standard. A pure-electric driving mode is available, offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 26 miles.
Toyota Tacoma/Tundra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Models)
Toyota is considering expanding its hybrid pickup truck offerings with plug-in hybrid versions of the Tacoma and Tundra, according to a CNBC report. Toyota’s Executive Vice President for North America, Jack Hollis, stated that the company is evaluating new options for its pickup range in response to evolving emissions and fuel economy regulations. While confirming the potential for expansion, specific details regarding production timelines for the Toyota Tacoma Prime and Toyota Tundra Prime remain undisclosed.
Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Ford has announced plans to incorporate “multi-energy technology” into the next generation of F-Series Super Duty trucks. While Ford has not explicitly confirmed a hybrid system, industry expectations point towards hybrid powertrains for future F-Series Super Duty models.
2024 Ford F-250 SuperDuty front view
Image: The 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty, a powerful heavy-duty pickup, may soon feature a hybrid powertrain, potentially including a range-extender system.
A Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid, possibly incorporating a range-extender system, could potentially be available in the U.S. as early as 2026. Ford will manufacture these electrified heavy-duty trucks at multiple facilities, including the Kentucky Truck Plant and Ohio Assembly Plant in the U.S., and the Oakville Assembly Complex in Canada, scheduled to become a Super Duty production site in 2026.
Ram Mid-Size Pickup Truck (Upcoming Model)
In November 2023, Stellantis announced plans for a new mid-size pickup truck and the revitalization of the Belvidere Assembly Plant. A USD 5 billion investment was committed to reopen the plant for two-shift production in 2027, with an anticipated annual output of 80,000 to 100,000 units.
However, in August 2024, Stellantis delayed the Belvidere plant reopening, leaving the timeline for the new mid-size pickup truck uncertain. Despite the delay, Ram CEO Chris Feuell has affirmed that the new truck “will be brought to market,” according to a MotorTrend report. Feuell hinted at a surprising platform choice, suggesting a unibody construction rather than traditional body-on-frame. The future model is expected to utilize the STLA Medium platform and may be offered with a hybrid powertrain.
Conclusion
The hybrid pickup truck segment is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. While currently limited to a handful of models, the horizon is filled with upcoming releases from major manufacturers, encompassing a range of hybrid technologies from mild hybrids to plug-in hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles. As consumer demand for fuel efficiency and lower emissions increases, without sacrificing the utility and capability of a pickup truck, hybrid pickup trucks are set to become an increasingly important part of the American automotive landscape.
