Pickup trucks dominate the US vehicle market, and for good reason. Their practicality, commanding driving position, off-road capabilities, and impressive payload and towing capacities resonate deeply with American drivers. In fact, trucks held the top three spots in US vehicle sales in 2023, according to Car and Driver data.
However, for a long time, hybrid options in the pickup segment were limited. This was largely due to past economic factors like higher production costs and concerns about the long-term upkeep of hybrid systems. The initial higher price tag and potential battery replacement expenses made some buyers hesitant, even with the promise of better fuel economy. But as electric vehicle technology advances and becomes more mainstream, the market for hybrid trucks is evolving rapidly.
Currently, the United States offers five hybrid pickup truck models, encompassing both mild and full hybrid systems. This article will explore these current options and delve into the exciting new Truck Hybrids anticipated to hit the market in the near future.
Ford F-150 Hybrid (Current Model)
Ford F-150 Limited front three quarter
Alt text: Front three quarter view of a Ford F-150 Limited hybrid truck, showcasing its robust design.
The Ford F-150 Hybrid maintains the iconic look of the standard F-150, with the real innovation lying beneath the surface. It features a 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid V6 engine paired with a 46.5 hp electric motor, powered by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery.
Specifications
This powerful hybrid system delivers a combined output of 430 horsepower and a substantial 570 lb.-ft. of torque. Since the 2024 model year, a 4×4 system comes standard on the hybrid variant. Impressively, this powertrain achieves a combined fuel economy of 23 MPG, significantly outperforming other F-150 engine options. Ford’s Pro Power Onboard, an exportable power feature, is also standard on the F-150 Hybrid, offering a 2.4 kW system with up to four 120V/20A sockets, with an optional upgrade to a 7.2 kW system with six outlets. Despite its fuel efficiency, the F-150 Hybrid doesn’t compromise on truck capability, boasting a towing capacity of up to 11,200 lbs. and a payload capacity of 1,750 lbs.
Price
The Ford F-150 Hybrid is available in SuperCrew configuration with either a 5.5-ft or 6.5-ft bed and comes in XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum trim levels. Pricing starts at USD 58,065, including destination and acquisition fees.
Ford Maverick Hybrid (Current Model)
Ford Maverick front three quarter
Alt text: Angular front view of a Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck, highlighting its compact and modern styling.
The Ford Maverick Hybrid stands out as the most budget-friendly hybrid pickup truck currently available in the US market. Its exceptional value proposition made it a highly sought-after model in 2023, even ranking among the fastest-selling vehicles according to iSeeCars data.
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 under the rear seats, and a 94 kW (126 hp) electric motor. This system produces a combined 191 horsepower, while the gasoline engine delivers 155 lb.-ft. of torque. While Ford doesn’t specify the combined torque figure, the electric motor contributes 173 lb.-ft., suggesting a combined output exceeding 200 lb.-ft. The 2025 model year update brings the option of all-wheel drive and the 4K Tow Package to the Maverick Hybrid, further enhancing its versatility.
The Maverick Hybrid truly shines 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. are less than the F-150 Hybrid, the Maverick remains a highly capable light-duty hybrid pickup truck.
Price
The Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck starts at USD 28,685, including destination and acquisition fees, making it an incredibly accessible entry point into the world of truck hybrids.
Ram 1500 eTorque (Current Model)
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie towing
Alt text: A Ram 1500 Laramie eTorque model towing a trailer, demonstrating its mild-hybrid capabilities and towing strength.
Ram introduced eTorque mild-hybrid technology to the Ram 1500 in 2019, focusing on enhancing fuel efficiency. While the Ram 1500 eTorque cannot run solely on electric power, this mild-hybrid system provides notable fuel savings. The Ram 1500 received a styling 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 operating at 48 volts, supports the engine. This system enables fuel-saving features like 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 and 21 MPG in 4WD, representing a solid improvement in fuel efficiency for a full-size pickup.
Price
The Ram 1500 eTorque, available in the base Tradesman trim and higher, starts at USD 42,270, including destination charges.
Toyota Tundra Hybrid (Current Model)
2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone front three quarter
Alt text: Premium front three quarter shot of a 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone, emphasizing its luxurious features and hybrid powertrain.
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid is the third strong hybrid pickup on the market, offering a robust blend of power and efficiency. While the base SR and SR5 trims of the Tundra feature a non-hybrid engine, the higher trims – Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, TRD Pro, and Capstone – all come equipped with the potent iForce Max 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain.
Specifications
The Tundra Hybrid’s powertrain delivers impressive performance, boasting a peak output of 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. The electric motor itself contributes 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.
The Tundra Hybrid is built for off-road adventures, with all variants featuring a 2-speed transfer case, an automated limited-slip differential (LSD), and an e-locking rear differential. It also maintains strong truck capabilities with a maximum towing capacity of 11,450 lbs. and a payload capacity of 1,680 lbs. Fuel economy is estimated at up to 22 MPG (2WD) and 21 MPG (4WD) combined. The hybrid system adds weight, with the Tundra Limited i-Force Max V6 Hybrid weighing in at 5,710 lbs compared to the non-hybrid Tundra Limited i-Force V6 at 5,160 lbs.
Price
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid starts at USD 59,950, including delivery, processing, and handling fees.
Toyota Tacoma Hybrid (Current Model)
2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra front three quarter
Alt text: Dynamic front three quarter view of a 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra, showcasing its off-road ready stance and hybrid technology.
Following the hybridization of the Tundra, Toyota logically extended electrification to the Tacoma. The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is available in various configurations, including specialized trims designed for off-road overlanding and desert racing.
Specifications
The Tacoma Hybrid utilizes a different i-Force Max powertrain than the Tundra Hybrid, featuring a 2.4-liter single-turbo engine paired with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into an 8-speed transmission. This system is powered by a 1.87 kWh NiMH battery pack and delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. The Tacoma Hybrid achieves a combined EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 24 MPG.
Price
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid starts at USD 47,815, including delivery, processing, and handling fees.
Scout Terra (Upcoming Model)
Scout Terra concept front three quarter
Alt text: Conceptual front three quarter image of the Scout Terra, highlighting its futuristic design and extended range electric vehicle technology.
The Scout Terra, from Volkswagen Group’s revived Scout Motors, will offer both fully electric and Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) versions for the US market. The EREV variant, featuring ‘Harvester’ technology, will utilize a small gasoline engine solely as a generator to recharge the battery, enabling a range exceeding 500 miles. Dual motors, one on each axle, will provide four-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Group has released general details about the Terra EREV. It will be built on a ladder-frame chassis, classifying it as a full-size pickup truck with a length of 229.2 inches, width of 79.9 inches, and height of 77.7 inches, with a 148.6-inch wheelbase. It will feature a crew cab and a 5 ft 5 in bed. Estimated capabilities include a maximum payload of nearly 2,000 lbs. and a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs.
Production of the Scout Terra is scheduled to begin in Blythewood, South Carolina, in 2027.
Ram 1500 Ramcharger (Upcoming Model)
2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger
Alt text: Sleek profile view of the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, emphasizing its aerodynamic design and long electric range capabilities.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is the range-extender version of the Ram 1500 REV electric pickup. It features dual motors producing a combined 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque. The front motor can disengage to improve efficiency when full power or traction isn’t needed. An electronic locking differential will be available for the rear motor.
The Ramcharger primarily runs on a 92 kWh battery pack, supplemented by a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine with a 130 kW generator and a 27-gallon fuel tank. The generator converts engine power into electricity to charge the battery. The system can also directly power the motors when extra power is demanded.
The Ramcharger boasts a 145 kW DC fast-charging capability, adding up to 50 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes. Ram estimates a combined range of 690 miles (electricity + gasoline). Performance figures include a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, a towing capacity of 14,000 lbs., and a payload capacity of 2,625 lbs.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is expected to launch in 2025.
Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Following a shift in EV demand, GM has confirmed plans to introduce plug-in hybrid vehicles in North America, including a Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid. Autoweek reported in February 2024 that GM is fast-tracking the development of this PHEV Silverado.
While GM has launched the all-electric Chevrolet Silverado EV, its sales volume and profitability remain uncertain. The Silverado EV’s starting price of USD 66,900 (excluding destination) is relatively high, and its towing (10,000 lbs.) and payload (1,440 lbs.) capacities are less than the combustion-powered Silverado.
A Chevrolet Silverado PHEV could offer a compelling option for buyers seeking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing the core capabilities expected from a full-size truck.
GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
A GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is also anticipated, as GM pivots towards semi-electrified vehicles to drive near-term sales growth. Likely sharing components with the Silverado PHEV, the Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is expected to offer a more premium experience with enhanced styling, a more refined interior, and advanced features.
Kia TV EREV (Upcoming Model)
The strong market reception of the Ford Maverick Hybrid has demonstrated the demand for efficient, compact trucks. Kia, known for its value-oriented models, is poised to enter this segment with the Kia TV EREV pickup.
According to The Korea Economic Daily, the Kia TV pickup is slated for production in 2028 or 2029. It will be an EREV, utilizing its internal combustion engine solely to recharge the battery, similar to a series hybrid. The Kia TV is projected to have an electric range exceeding 329 miles (530 km) and a towing capacity over 10,000 lbs (4,535 kg).
Hyundai TE EREV (Upcoming Model)
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz front three quarter live image
Alt text: Live front three quarter image of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, hinting at the design direction for the future Hyundai TE EREV truck model.
Hyundai Motor Group’s future product plans include a Hyundai TE EREV, potentially a mechanical sibling to the Kia TV EREV. It’s speculated that it could be a derivative of the next-generation Hyundai Santa Cruz. The Hyundai TE EREV is also projected for a 2028/2029 production start, as reported by The Korea Economic Daily.
Jeep Gladiator 4xe (Upcoming Model)
Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed via LinkedIn the upcoming launch of a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid in 2025.
Jeep Gladiator front three quarters
Alt text: Front three quarter view of a Jeep Gladiator, representing the gas-powered model and hinting at the upcoming Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid.
The Jeep Gladiator 4xe is expected to share its powertrain with the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe models. These PHEVs combine a 2.0L gasoline engine with two electric motors powered by a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, producing a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission and 4WD system are standard. The Wrangler 4xe offers an EPA-estimated electric driving range of up to 26 miles, which could be similar for the Gladiator 4xe.
Toyota Tacoma/Tundra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Models)
Toyota is considering adding plug-in hybrid versions of the Tacoma and Tundra for the US market, according to a CNBC report. Toyota’s Executive Vice President for North America, Jack Hollis, indicated that the company is evaluating new options for its pickup lineup in response to evolving emissions and fuel economy regulations, suggesting potential for Tacoma Prime and Tundra Prime PHEV models. However, details regarding production timelines remain undisclosed.
Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Ford has announced plans to incorporate “multi-energy technology” into the next-generation F-Series Super Duty trucks. While details are limited, industry speculation points towards a hybrid system for future Super Duty models.
2024 Ford F-250 SuperDuty
Alt text: Robust side view of a 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty, representing the heavy-duty truck line anticipated to include a hybrid powertrain in the future.
A Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid, potentially featuring a range-extender system, could debut as early as 2026. Ford will manufacture these electrified heavy-duty trucks at multiple plants, including facilities in Kentucky, Ohio, and Canada, with the Canadian plant scheduled to become a Super Duty production site in 2026.
Ram Mid-Size Pickup Truck (Upcoming Model)
Stellantis announced in November 2023 plans for a new mid-size pickup truck and the revitalization of the Belvidere Assembly Plant. While the reopening of the plant has been delayed, Ram CEO Chris Feuell has affirmed that the new mid-size truck is still planned for market release. Interestingly, Feuell hinted at a unibody construction and the use of the STLA Medium platform, suggesting a departure from traditional body-on-frame designs. A hybrid powertrain is expected to be offered for this future Ram mid-size pickup truck.
By embracing hybrid technology, truck manufacturers are responding to the growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles without compromising on the power and capability that truck owners expect. The future of truck hybrids is looking bright, with a diverse range of options on the horizon.
