The pickup truck reigns supreme as the most sought-after passenger vehicle segment in the United States. For years, Americans have been drawn to the practicality of pickups – their commanding driving position, off-road capabilities, and crucially, their impressive payload and towing capacities. In 2023, data from Car and Driver revealed that trucks dominated the top three best-selling vehicle spots in the U.S., highlighting their enduring popularity.
However, the availability of hybrid pickup options in the U.S. has historically been limited. This scarcity stemmed from past concerns about business viability, primarily due to higher initial costs and worries regarding long-term maintenance. Despite the obvious fuel efficiency benefits, the increased purchase price and potential battery replacement expenses have made some buyers hesitant. But as the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, the market for hybrid pickups is steadily gaining traction.
Currently, the U.S. market offers a selection of five mild and full hybrid pickup truck models. This article will delve into these existing options and explore the exciting new choices that are on the horizon for consumers.
Ford F-150 Hybrid (Current Model)
Ford F-150 Limited front three quarter
Image: The Ford F-150 Limited hybrid, showcasing its robust design and integration of hybrid technology.
Specifications
The Ford F-150 Hybrid pickup truck maintains the familiar aesthetics of the standard F-150. The key difference lies beneath the surface, where it boasts a 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid V6 engine. This engine works in conjunction with a 46.5 hp electric motor, powered by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. This hybrid system delivers a combined output of 430 hp and a substantial 570 lb.-ft. of torque. Since the 2024 model year, a 4×4 system comes as standard on the hybrid variant.
Fuel efficiency is a major highlight, with the F-150 Hybrid achieving a combined 23 MPG. This figure significantly surpasses the fuel economy of other powertrain options available for the F-150. Furthermore, Ford’s Pro Power Onboard exportable power system is standard on the Hybrid model. It includes a 2.4 kW system with up to four 120 V/20 A sockets as standard, and customers can upgrade to a more powerful 7.2 kW system with six outlets. Despite its fuel-efficient nature, the F-150 Hybrid retains impressive truck capabilities, offering 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 in the SuperCrew configuration with either a 5.5-ft or a 6.5-ft bed. Trim levels include XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. Prices for the Ford F-150 Hybrid start at USD 58,065, which includes USD 1,995 in destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee.
Ford Maverick Hybrid (Current Market Leader)
Ford Maverick front three quarter
Image: The Ford Maverick hybrid, a popular and affordable compact hybrid pickup truck in the US market.
The Ford Maverick Hybrid stands out as the most accessible hybrid pickup truck in the United States. It offers exceptional value and was a highly sought-after model in 2023, even ranking among the top ten fastest-selling vehicles according to iSeeCars data. The Ford Maverick has redefined the concept of a Hybrid Small Pickup, proving that efficiency and truck utility can coexist in a compact package.
Specifications
The Maverick Hybrid 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 system delivers a combined 191 hp, with the gasoline engine contributing 155 lb.-ft. of torque. While Ford hasn’t officially disclosed the combined torque figure, the electric motor alone produces 173 lb.-ft., suggesting a total output well over 200 lb.-ft. For the 2025 model year, Ford has expanded the Maverick Hybrid’s capabilities by offering an all-wheel-drive system and the 4K Tow Package as options.
The Maverick Hybrid truly excels in fuel efficiency, boasting a combined rating of 37 mpg (FWD MY2024). While its towing capacity of 4,000 lbs and payload capacity of 1,500 lbs position it as a light-duty hybrid pickup truck, it’s perfectly suited for a wide range of tasks for those needing truck versatility in a smaller, more economical package.
Price
The Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck starts at USD 28,685, inclusive of USD 1,595 destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee, making it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a hybrid small pickup.
Ram 1500 eTorque (Mild Hybrid Efficiency)
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie towing
Image: The 2025 Ram 1500 Laramie eTorque, showcasing its towing capability and mild-hybrid technology for improved fuel economy.
Ram introduced eTorque mild hybrid technology to the Ram 1500 truck in 2019, focusing on enhancing fuel efficiency without full electric propulsion. While not a strong hybrid, the eTorque system provides noticeable fuel savings and improved responsiveness. The Ram 1500 eTorque received a design refresh in November 2023, further refining its appeal.
Specifications
The Ram 1500 eTorque utilizes a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine producing 305 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque. A belt-driven motor generator, paired with a small 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery (48-volt), supports the engine. This mild-hybrid system enables key fuel-saving features like 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 EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of up to 23 MPG in 2WD and 21 MPG in 4WD configurations.
Price
The starting price for the Ram 1500 eTorque in the U.S. is USD 42,270, including USD 1,995 destination charges.
Toyota Tundra Hybrid (Powerful Hybrid Performance)
2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone front three quarter
Image: The 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone, highlighting its premium features and robust hybrid powertrain.
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid is the third strong hybrid pickup on the market, available in seven trim levels, with the iForce Max 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain offered on the top five variants. The base models utilize a non-hybrid engine. The Tundra Hybrid prioritizes power and capability while offering improved fuel efficiency compared to its non-hybrid counterparts.
Specifications
The Tundra Hybrid powertrain delivers a potent 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. The electric motor itself produces 48 hp and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, drawing power from a 288-volt NMC battery with a 1.87 kWh capacity. Power is distributed to all wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Off-road prowess is a key feature of the Tundra, with all variants equipped with a 2-speed transfer case, automated limited-slip differential (LSD), and an e-locking rear differential. It boasts a maximum towing capacity of 11,450 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,680 lbs. Toyota estimates fuel economy at up to 22 MPG (2WD) and 21 MPG (4WD). The hybrid system does add weight, with the Tundra Limited i-Force Max V6 Hybrid weighing in at 5,710 lbs compared to the 5,160 lbs of the standard Tundra Limited i-Force V6.
Price
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid has a starting price of USD 59,950, which includes a USD 1,945 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Toyota Tacoma Hybrid (Compact Hybrid Option)
2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra front three quarter
Image: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra, showcasing the off-road-focused hybrid small pickup.
Following the hybridization of the Tundra, Toyota logically extended electrification to the Tacoma, aligning with the company’s commitment to expanding electrified models across its Toyota and Lexus lineups. The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid offers a range of configurations, including specialized variants for off-road overlanding and desert racing. This hybrid small pickup caters to those seeking a balance of fuel efficiency and Toyota’s renowned reliability in a more compact truck.
Specifications
The Tacoma Hybrid features a unique i-Force Max powertrain, combining a 2.4-liter single-turbo engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into an 8-speed transmission. A 1.87 kWh NiMH battery pack powers the electric motor. The hybrid system produces a combined 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel economy is EPA-estimated at up to 24 MPG combined.
Price
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid starts at USD 47,815, including a USD 1,495 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Future Hybrid Small Pickup Trucks: The Horizon
Looking ahead, the landscape of hybrid pickup trucks, including hybrid small pickups, is set to expand significantly with several exciting models on the way.
Scout Terra (Upcoming EREV)
Scout Terra concept front three quarter
Image: The Scout Terra concept, hinting at a future EREV pickup with extended range capabilities.
The Scout Terra, from Volkswagen Group’s new Scout Motors, will offer both EV and EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) versions for the American market. The EREV variant, featuring ‘Harvester’ technology, will utilize a small gasoline engine solely as a generator to charge the battery, enabling a projected range exceeding 500 miles. Dual motors will provide four-wheel drive. While detailed specifications for the EREV are still pending, the Terra is confirmed to be a full-size pickup built on a ladder-frame chassis. Production is slated to begin in Blythewood, South Carolina, in 2027.
Ram 1500 Ramcharger (Upcoming Range Extender)
2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger
Image: The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, promising a long combined range with its range extender technology.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger, a range-extended version of the Ram 1500 REV, will feature dual motors producing 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque. A 92 kWh battery pack is supplemented by a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine acting as a 130 kW generator. This configuration is projected to deliver a combined range of 690 miles. Ram anticipates a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.4 seconds, with towing and payload capacities of 14,000 lbs and 2,625 lbs respectively. The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is expected to launch in 2025.
Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid & GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming PHEVs)
Following a shift in strategy, GM has confirmed plug-in hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra are under development. These PHEV models are intended to offer a compelling balance of electric driving range and traditional truck capabilities, appealing to customers seeking environmental considerations without sacrificing core trucking functionality. The GMC Sierra PHEV is expected to be a more premium offering, sharing its underpinnings with the Silverado PHEV but with enhanced styling and features.
Kia TV EREV & Hyundai TE EREV (Upcoming Compact EREVs)
Taking note of the Ford Maverick Hybrid’s success, Kia and Hyundai are reportedly developing compact pickup trucks with EREV powertrains. The Kia TV EREV and Hyundai TE EREV are expected to enter production around 2028 or 2029. These models are anticipated to offer significant electric range (over 329 miles for the Kia TV) and substantial towing capacity (over 10,000 lbs for the Kia TV), potentially challenging Ford’s dominance in the hybrid small pickup segment. These models indicate a growing trend towards extended-range electric technology in smaller truck formats.
Jeep Gladiator 4xe (Upcoming PHEV)
Jeep Gladiator front three quarters
Image: The Jeep Gladiator, with a plug-in hybrid 4xe version expected to join the lineup soon.
Jeep has confirmed a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid for 2025. It is likely to share the powertrain found in the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, which combines a 2.0L gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh battery pack. This system delivers 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque and offers an EPA-estimated electric range of up to 26 miles.
Toyota Tacoma/Tundra Plug-in Hybrid (Potential Future PHEVs)
Toyota is considering plug-in hybrid variants of the Tacoma and Tundra, signaling a further expansion of their electrified pickup truck offerings. While details are still under evaluation, this move reflects Toyota’s responsiveness to evolving emission regulations and consumer demand for more versatile hybrid options within their popular pickup truck lineup.
Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid (Upcoming Heavy-Duty Hybrid)
Ford has announced “multi-energy technology” for the next-generation F-Series Super Duty trucks, widely expected to include a hybrid system. While the specifics are yet to be revealed, a Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid, potentially with a range-extender system, could debut as early as 2026, bringing hybrid technology to the heavy-duty truck segment.
Ram Mid-Size Pickup Truck (Upcoming Hybrid Option)
Ram is developing a new mid-size pickup truck, with production anticipated at the Belvidere Assembly Plant. While the plant reopening was delayed, the Ram CEO has confirmed the truck’s arrival. Speculation suggests a unibody construction and availability with a hybrid powertrain, potentially utilizing the STLA Medium platform. This upcoming Ram mid-size pickup could represent a significant entry in the hybrid small pickup market.
Conclusion: The Rise of Hybrid Small Pickups
The hybrid pickup truck market is rapidly evolving, with a growing focus on hybrid small pickups that deliver fuel efficiency without sacrificing utility. From current models like the Ford Maverick Hybrid and Toyota Tacoma Hybrid to upcoming options from various manufacturers, the future of pickups is undoubtedly becoming more electrified. These hybrid trucks offer a compelling solution for consumers seeking a balance of environmental consciousness, practicality, and performance in their next vehicle. As technology advances and consumer demand shifts, hybrid small pickups are poised to play a crucial role in the automotive landscape.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and based on currently available information and manufacturer announcements. Specifications, pricing, and release timelines are subject to change.
