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 prowess, and crucially, their payload and towing capacities. In 2023, trucks dominated the sales charts, claiming the top three spots in U.S. vehicle sales volume, according to Car and Driver data.
However, the landscape of pickup trucks is evolving. While hybrid options have been limited in the past due to cost and maintenance concerns, a shift is underway. The increasing momentum towards vehicle electrification is making hybrid technology more viable and appealing in the truck segment. Initially, higher purchase prices and potential battery replacement costs were deterrents, but the promise of fuel efficiency is now capturing buyer interest.
Currently, the U.S. market offers a selection of five mild and full hybrid pickup truck models. This article will explore these existing options and delve into the exciting new choices on the horizon for consumers interested in embracing hybrid technology in smaller truck formats and beyond.
Current Small Truck Hybrid Options
While the term “small truck” can be subjective, in the context of hybrids, we see a clear emergence of more compact and fuel-efficient pickup options. These models prioritize fuel economy and maneuverability, making them ideal for daily driving and lighter-duty tasks, while still retaining truck-like utility.
Ford Maverick Hybrid (Current)
Ford Maverick front three quarter
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck in a light blue color, showcasing its compact size and modern design.
The Ford Maverick Hybrid stands out as the most accessible hybrid pickup truck in the American market. Its exceptional value proposition and impressive fuel economy made it a highly popular choice in 2023. Data from iSeeCars even placed the Ford Maverick among the top ten fastest-selling vehicles in the U.S., highlighting its strong consumer appeal.
Specifications
Powering the Maverick Hybrid is a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine working in conjunction with a liquid-cooled 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery positioned beneath the rear seats, and a 94 kW (126 hp) electric motor. This hybrid system delivers a combined 191 horsepower. The gasoline engine contributes 155 lb.-ft. of torque, and while Ford hasn’t published the combined torque figure, the electric motor alone produces 173 lb.-ft., suggesting a robust combined output exceeding 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, broadening its appeal and utility.
The Maverick Hybrid excels in fuel efficiency, achieving a combined 37 mpg (FWD MY2024). While its towing capacity of 4,000 lbs. and payload capacity of 1,500 lbs. classify it as a light-duty hybrid pickup, it provides ample capability for many typical truck owners, especially those prioritizing fuel savings in a smaller package.
Price
The Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck starts at USD 28,685, which includes USD 1,595 destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee, making it a very competitively priced entry into the Small Truck Hybrid segment.
Toyota Tacoma Hybrid (Current)
2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra front three quarter
Alt text: A 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro in Terra color, presented in a front three-quarter view, emphasizing its off-road styling and rugged features.
Toyota, having already successfully hybridized the larger Tundra, logically extended electrification to the popular Tacoma. This move aligns with Toyota’s commitment to expanding its portfolio of electrified vehicles across both Toyota and Lexus brands by 2025. The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is available in various configurations, including specialized TRD Pro and Trailhunter variants designed for off-road adventures and overlanding.
Specifications
The Tacoma Hybrid employs a unique i-Force Max powertrain, different from the Tundra’s system. It combines a 2.4-liter single-turbo engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into an 8-speed transmission. Power for the electric motor comes from a 1.87 kWh NiMH battery pack. This hybrid system generates an impressive 326 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel economy is also a highlight, with an EPA-estimated combined rating of up to 24 MPG.
Price
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid’s pricing starts at USD 47,815, including USD 1,495 delivery, processing, and handling fee. This positions it as a more premium option within the small truck hybrid category, reflecting its advanced features and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Current Full-Size Hybrid Truck Options
While “small truck hybrid” is our focus, it’s important to understand the broader context of hybrid trucks in the market. Several full-size hybrid trucks are currently available, demonstrating the application of hybrid technology across different truck sizes.
Ford F-150 Hybrid (Current)
Ford F-150 Limited front three quarter
Alt text: Front three-quarter angle of a Ford F-150 Limited hybrid pickup truck, highlighting its premium trim and robust full-size truck proportions.
The Ford F-150 Hybrid visually mirrors the standard F-150, with the hybrid powertrain being the key differentiator. Under the hood, it features a 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid V6 engine paired with a 46.5 hp electric motor drawing power from a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery.
Specifications
This hybrid system achieves a combined output of 430 hp and 570 lb.-ft. of torque. Since the 2024 model year, a 4×4 system is standard on the hybrid F-150. It boasts a combined fuel efficiency of 23 MPG, a significant improvement over other F-150 powertrains. Ford’s Pro Power Onboard exportable power system is standard, offering up to 7.2 kW of power output. The F-150 Hybrid also maintains impressive truck capabilities with a towing capacity of up to 11,200 lbs. and a payload capacity of 1,750 lbs.
Price
The Ford F-150 Hybrid is offered in SuperCrew configuration with 5.5-ft. or 6.5-ft. beds, and in XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum trims. Prices begin at USD 58,065, inclusive of destination and acquisition fees.
Ram 1500 eTorque (Current)
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie towing
Alt text: A 2025 Ram 1500 Laramie mild-hybrid pickup truck towing a trailer, demonstrating its towing capability and highlighting the Laramie trim.
Ram introduced eTorque mild-hybrid technology to the Ram 1500 in 2019. While not a full hybrid capable of electric-only driving, eTorque enhances fuel efficiency through mild-hybrid assistance. The Ram 1500 eTorque received a facelift in November 2023, further refining its design and technology.
Specifications
The Ram 1500 eTorque uses a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine producing 305 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque. A belt-driven motor generator with a small 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery provides 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance. This system enables engine start/stop, torque assist, and brake energy regeneration. The belt-starter generator contributes 9 kW and 90 lb.-ft. of torque. The Ram 1500 eTorque achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 23 MPG in 2WD.
Price
Ram 1500 eTorque pricing in the U.S. starts at USD 42,270, including destination charges.
Toyota Tundra Hybrid (Current)
2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone front three quarter
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone, showcasing its luxurious Capstone trim and the Tundra’s bold front-end design.
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid is the third strong hybrid full-size pickup currently available. It’s offered in SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, TRD Pro, and Capstone trims, with the hybrid powertrain available on the top five trims.
Specifications
The Tundra hybrid powertrain delivers significant power, with a peak output of 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. The electric motor produces 48 hp and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, powered by a 288-volt NMC battery with a 1.87 kWh capacity. Power is routed through a 10-speed automatic gearbox to all wheels. The Tundra Hybrid is highly capable off-road, with features like a 2-speed transfer case, limited-slip differential, and e-locking rear differential. It offers a maximum towing capacity of 11,450 lbs. and a payload capacity of 1,680 lbs., with a combined fuel efficiency of up to 22 MPG (2WD).
Price
Toyota Tundra Hybrid pricing starts at USD 59,950, including delivery, processing, and handling fees.
Upcoming Hybrid and EREV Trucks: Expanding the горизонт
Looking ahead, the hybrid and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) truck market is poised for substantial growth, with several manufacturers planning to introduce new models. These upcoming trucks will further expand the choices for consumers seeking fuel-efficient and capable pickup options, including potentially more small truck hybrid entries in the future.
Scout Terra (Upcoming)
Scout Terra concept front three quarter
Alt text: Concept rendering of the Scout Terra pickup truck, displayed in a front three-quarter view, showcasing its boxy, retro-inspired design and off-road stance.
The Scout Terra, from Volkswagen Group’s revived Scout Motors brand, will be offered as both an EV and an EREV. The EREV variant, featuring ‘Harvester’ technology, will use a small gasoline engine as a generator to extend its range beyond 500 miles.
Specifications
The Terra EREV will have a dual-motor four-wheel-drive system. While specific EREV details are limited, the Terra is confirmed to be a full-size pickup built on a ladder-frame chassis. It will measure 229.2 inches long, with a crew cab and a 5 ft. 5 in. bed. Scout estimates a payload capacity of nearly 2,000 lbs. and a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs. Production is slated to begin in 2027 in Blythewood, South Carolina.
Ram 1500 Ramcharger (Upcoming)
2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger
Alt text: The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger pickup truck, shown in a dynamic studio shot, emphasizing its modern styling and powerful presence.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is the range-extender version of the Ram 1500 REV electric pickup. It will feature a dual-motor system producing 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque.
Specifications
The Ramcharger combines a 92 kWh battery pack with a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine acting as a 130 kW generator. This system is designed to provide a combined range of 690 miles. Ram claims a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 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)
General Motors, adjusting to EV market trends, has confirmed plug-in hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. These PHEV trucks are being fast-tracked, according to Autoweek, as GM shifts focus towards semi-electrified models.
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz front three quarter live image
Alt text: Live image of a 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup truck, captured in a front three-quarter view, highlighting its unibody construction and car-like styling.
Specifications & Expected Features
While details are still emerging, the Silverado and Sierra PHEVs aim to offer a balance of environmental consciousness and traditional truck capabilities. The Sierra PHEV is expected to be a more premium offering, with enhanced styling and interior features compared to the Silverado PHEV.
Kia TV EREV & Hyundai TE EREV (Upcoming)
Kia and Hyundai are also entering the EREV truck space. Reports from The Korea Economic Daily indicate that a Kia “TV” pickup and a Hyundai “TE” EREV are in development, potentially launching in 2028 or 2029. These models are expected to target the compact truck segment, potentially challenging the Ford Maverick Hybrid’s dominance.
Specifications & Expected Features
The Kia TV and Hyundai TE EREVs are anticipated to have an electric range exceeding 329 miles and a towing capacity over 10,000 lbs. The Hyundai TE EREV is speculated to be related to the next-generation Hyundai Santa Cruz, suggesting a potential small truck hybrid or EREV option from Hyundai.
Jeep Gladiator 4xe (Upcoming)
Jeep has confirmed a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid for 2025. This PHEV Gladiator will expand Jeep’s 4xe lineup, bringing electrification to their popular lifestyle pickup.
Jeep Gladiator front three quarters
Alt text: Jeep Gladiator pickup truck, presented in a front three-quarter view, emphasizing its open-air design, removable doors, and rugged Jeep styling.
Specifications & Expected Features
The Gladiator 4xe is likely to share its powertrain with the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, potentially featuring a 2.0L gasoline engine combined with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh battery pack, producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque with around 26 miles of electric range.
Toyota Tacoma/Tundra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming)
Toyota is considering plug-in hybrid versions of both the Tacoma and Tundra, according to CNBC. This move reflects Toyota’s evaluation of expanding its pickup lineup in response to evolving emissions regulations.
Specifications & Expected Features
While details are scarce, Toyota’s PHEV truck development signals a potential future expansion of plug-in hybrid options across different truck sizes, including the possibility of a Toyota Tacoma Prime.
Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid (Upcoming)
Ford has announced “multi-energy technology” for the next-generation F-Series Super Duty trucks, widely anticipated to include a hybrid system, potentially with a range-extender.
2024 Ford F-250 SuperDuty
Alt text: A 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty pickup truck, displayed in a front three-quarter view, showcasing its robust heavy-duty design and powerful stance.
Specifications & Expected Features
A Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid could appear as early as 2026, potentially featuring a range-extender system. Production will take place at multiple factories, including in the U.S. and Canada.
Ram Mid-Size Pickup Truck (Upcoming)
Ram is developing a new mid-size pickup truck, with production potentially starting in 2027. While details are limited, Ram CEO Chris Feuell hinted at a unibody construction and the possibility of a hybrid powertrain.
Specifications & Expected Features
This upcoming Ram mid-size truck is expected to utilize the STLA Medium platform and could introduce a new competitor in the small truck hybrid or electrified segment.
Conclusion: The Electrified Future of Pickups, Including Small Truck Hybrids
The pickup truck market is undergoing a significant transformation, with electrification, particularly hybrid technology, playing an increasingly important role. While full-size hybrid trucks like the Ford F-150 Hybrid and Toyota Tundra Hybrid are already available, the emergence of small truck hybrid options like the Ford Maverick Hybrid and Toyota Tacoma Hybrid signals a crucial shift. These smaller, more fuel-efficient hybrids cater to a broader range of consumers, offering truck utility in a more economical and environmentally conscious package.
Looking forward, the influx of upcoming hybrid and EREV trucks from various manufacturers promises to further diversify the market. From plug-in hybrids to range-extended electric vehicles, the future of pickups is undoubtedly electrified. As technology advances and consumer demand evolves, small truck hybrids are poised to become a significant segment, blending the practicality of a truck with the efficiency and reduced emissions of hybrid powertrains.
