The pickup truck reigns supreme as the most sought-after passenger vehicle segment in the United States. For decades, American drivers have been drawn to the practical appeal of pickups – their commanding driving position, off-road capabilities, and, crucially, their impressive payload and towing capacities. Recent data from Car and Driver reveals that in 2023, pickup trucks dominated the sales charts, securing the top three positions in U.S. vehicle sales volume.
However, the availability of hybrid pickup options in the U.S. has historically been limited. This scarcity stemmed primarily from past business considerations, notably higher production costs and concerns surrounding long-term maintenance. Despite the fuel efficiency benefits offered by hybrid powertrains, the elevated initial purchase price and potential battery replacement expenses previously deterred many buyers. Nevertheless, the automotive landscape is evolving, and with the increasing momentum of vehicle electrification, the market is experiencing a gradual but significant shift.
Currently, the American market boasts five distinct hybrid pickup truck models, encompassing both mild and full hybrid systems. This article will delve into these existing options and explore the exciting new hybrid pickup choices anticipated to reach consumers in the near future.
Ford F-150 Hybrid (Current Model)
Image: Front three-quarter view of a Ford F-150 Limited hybrid pickup truck, showcasing its robust design.
Specifications
The Ford F-150 Hybrid pickup truck maintains the familiar aesthetics of the standard F-150. The key distinction lies beneath the surface, where it features a 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid V6 engine. This engine is coupled with a 46.5 hp electric motor, powered by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. This sophisticated hybrid system delivers a combined output of 430 hp and an impressive 570 lb.-ft. of torque. Since the 2024 model year, a 4×4 drivetrain has become standard in the hybrid variant.
This powertrain achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 23 MPG, representing a significant improvement over other engine options available for the F-150. Notably, Ford’s Pro Power Onboard exportable power system is included as standard on the F-150 Hybrid. A 2.4 kW system with up to four 120 V/20 A sockets is standard, and customers can upgrade to a more powerful 7.2 kW system with six outlets. Furthermore, the hybrid F-150 retains considerable capability, offering a towing capacity of up to 11,200 lbs. and a payload capacity of 1,750 lbs., all while benefiting from the enhanced efficiency of its hybrid powertrain.
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. Prices for the Ford F-150 Hybrid start at USD 58,065, which includes USD 1,995 destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee.
Ford Maverick Hybrid (Current Model)
Image: A Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck, presented in a front three-quarter view, highlighting its compact size and modern styling.
The Ford Maverick Hybrid stands out as the most budget-friendly hybrid pickup truck currently available in the United States. This Small Truck Hybrid delivers exceptional value and was a highly sought-after model in 2023. Data from iSeeCars has even placed the Ford Maverick among the top ten fastest-selling vehicles in the U.S. market.
Specifications
The hybrid powertrain of the Maverick comprises 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. The combined system output is 191 hp, with the gasoline engine contributing 155 lb.-ft. of torque. While Ford hasn’t officially released the combined torque figure, the electric motor alone produces 173 lb.-ft., suggesting a combined output well exceeding 200 lb.-ft. For the 2025 model year, Ford has expanded the Maverick Hybrid’s capabilities, now offering it with an all-wheel-drive system and the optional 4K Tow Package.
The Maverick Hybrid excels in fuel efficiency, achieving a combined rating of 37 mpg (FWD MY2024). However, as a small truck hybrid, its towing and payload capacities are naturally lower than larger counterparts like the F-150 Hybrid. The Maverick is categorized as a light-duty hybrid pickup, with a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs. and a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 lbs.
Price
The starting price for the Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck is USD 28,685. This price includes USD 1,595 destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee, making it a very accessible entry point into the hybrid truck market.
Ram 1500 eTorque (Current Model)
Image: A Ram 1500 Laramie model shown towing, highlighting its capability. The truck features the eTorque mild-hybrid system.
Ram introduced its eTorque mild hybrid technology for the Ram 1500 truck in 2019. While not a full hybrid system capable of electric-only propulsion, Ram emphasizes that this mild-hybrid technology enhances fuel efficiency. The Ram 1500 eTorque received a design refresh in November 2023, further solidifying its position in the market.
Specifications
The Ram 1500 eTorque utilizes a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine that produces 305 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque. The mild-hybrid system incorporates a belt-driven motor generator, supported by a compact 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery operating at 48 volts. This system facilitates three key fuel-saving functions: 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 figures of up to 23 MPG in 2WD configuration and 21 MPG in 4WD.
Price
U.S. prices for the Ram 1500 eTorque begin at USD 42,270, including USD 1,995 destination charges. The eTorque system is available across various trim levels, including the base Tradesman model.
Toyota Tundra Hybrid (Current Model)
Image: Front three-quarter view of a 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone, showcasing its premium trim and robust stance.
The Toyota Tundra is the third strong hybrid pickup truck featured in this overview. The Tundra Hybrid is available in seven distinct trim levels: SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, TRD Pro, and Capstone. The iForce Max 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain is offered on the top five trims, while the base SR and SR5 models come with a non-hybrid engine.
Specifications
The Tundra hybrid powertrain delivers substantial power, with a peak output of 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 delivered to all wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Tundra Hybrid is designed for robust off-road performance. All variants feature a 2-speed transfer case with high and low range, an automatic limited-slip differential (LSD), and an electronic locking rear differential. It boasts a maximum towing capacity of 11,450 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,680 lbs. Toyota reports a combined fuel efficiency of up to 22 MPG (2WD) and 21 MPG (4WD). The hybrid system does contribute to increased weight; the Tundra Limited i-Force V6 weighs 5,160 lbs., while the Tundra Limited i-Force Max V6 Hybrid weighs 5,710 lbs.
Price
Prices for the Toyota Tundra Hybrid start at USD 59,950, including a USD 1,945 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Toyota Tacoma Hybrid (Current Model)
Image: A 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Terra in a front three-quarter view, showcasing its off-road focused design.
Following the hybridization of the Tundra, Toyota logically extended electrification to the Tacoma. This move aligns with Toyota’s commitment to introducing electrified versions of more Toyota and Lexus models globally by 2025. The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is offered in various configurations, including specialized trims designed for off-grid overlanding and 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. The electric motor is integrated into an 8-speed transmission and is powered by a 1.87 kWh NiMH battery pack. This hybrid system delivers a combined 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 lb.-ft. of torque. It achieves a combined EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 24 MPG, making it a compelling small truck hybrid option.
Price
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid’s pricing starts at USD 47,815, including a USD 1,495 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Scout Terra (Upcoming Model)
Image: Concept rendering of the Scout Terra pickup truck, displayed in a front three-quarter view, illustrating its potential design direction.
The Scout Terra, a debut model from Volkswagen Group’s revived Scout Motors brand, will be offered as both an EV and an EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) for the American market. The EREV variant, featuring ‘Harvester’ technology, will incorporate a small gasoline engine solely as a generator to recharge the battery pack when needed. Dual motors, one on each axle, will provide four-wheel drive capability. With a fully charged battery and a full gas tank, the EREV is projected to achieve a range exceeding 500 miles, though this remains a company estimate.
While specific details about the EREV variant are limited, Volkswagen Group has shared some general specifications. Built on a ladder-frame chassis, the Terra will be a full-size pickup truck, measuring 229.2 inches in length, 79.9 inches in width, and 77.7 inches in height (including antenna), with a 148.6-inch wheelbase. It will feature a crew cab body style with a 5 ft. 5 in. bed. The company anticipates a maximum payload capacity of nearly 2,000 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 lbs for their inaugural pickup truck.
Production of the Scout Terra is scheduled to commence in Blythewood, South Carolina, starting in 2027.
Ram 1500 Ramcharger (Upcoming Model)
Image: The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, presented to showcase its design and stance as a range-extended electric vehicle.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is the range extender variant of the Ram 1500 REV. It will be powered by two electric motors, one on each axle, delivering a combined 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque. The front motor is designed to disengage when not needed to optimize energy consumption. An electronic locking differential will be available for the rear motor.
The Ramcharger’s primary power source is a 92 kWh battery pack. Additionally, it incorporates a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine with a 130 kW generator and a 27-gallon fuel tank.
The 130 kW generator converts the engine’s mechanical power into electricity, which is then inverted and directed to the battery pack for charging. The motors can also draw power directly from the generator in conjunction with the battery when additional power is required.
The battery pack supports DC fast charging at up to 145 kW, enabling approximately 50 miles of range to be added in about 10 minutes. Ram estimates a combined driving range (electricity and gasoline) of 690 miles for the 1500 Ramcharger. Performance figures include a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of just 4.4 seconds, with a towing capacity of 14,000 lbs. and a payload capacity of 2,625 lbs.
Ram anticipates launching the 1500 Ramcharger in 2025.
Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
General Motors (GM), responding to shifting market demands and a slight decrease in EV enthusiasm, has confirmed its commitment to launching plug-in hybrid vehicles in North America. According to an Autoweek report from February 20, 2024, GM is accelerating the development of a Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid.
While GM has already introduced the Chevrolet Silverado EV, its sales volumes and profitability remain uncertain. With a starting price of USD 66,900 (excluding destination freight charges), the Silverado EV is positioned at a premium price point for many consumers. Furthermore, its towing and payload capacities of 10,000 lbs. and 1,440 lbs., respectively, are less than the combustion-powered Silverado, which can handle up to 2,260 lbs. of payload and tow up to 13,300 lbs.
A Chevrolet Silverado PHEV could present a compelling alternative for buyers seeking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing the core capabilities expected of a full-size pickup truck.
GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Mirroring Chevrolet’s strategy, a GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is also under development at GM. This move reflects GM’s broader shift towards semi-electrified vehicles, aiming for higher sales volumes and near-term growth as the EV market evolves. The GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is expected to share core technology with the Chevrolet Silverado Plug-in Hybrid, while offering a more upscale aesthetic with enhanced styling and a more premium interior featuring higher-quality 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 small truck hybrid options. Kia, known for its focus on value-oriented models, may be poised to challenge Ford in the compact truck segment.
A report from The Korea Economic Daily indicates that a semi-electrified ‘Kia TV’ pickup is in development, with production anticipated in 2028 or 2029. This model is expected to be an EREV, utilizing its internal combustion engine solely to recharge the battery pack, similar to a series hybrid electric vehicle. The Kia TV is projected to offer an electric range exceeding 530 km (329 miles) and a towing capacity of over 4,535 kg (10,000 lbs.).
Hyundai TE EREV (Upcoming Model)
Image: Live front three-quarter view of a 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, representing the model that may inspire the upcoming Hyundai TE EREV.
Hyundai Motor Group’s future product plans include a Hyundai TE EREV, potentially sharing a platform with the Kia TV EREV. It is speculated that this model could be derived from the next-generation Hyundai Santa Cruz. The Korea Economic Daily report suggests a similar production timeline of 2028/2029 for the Hyundai TE EREV. Currently, the Santa Cruz is offered only with gasoline engines, making an electrified variant a likely addition for its next generation.
Jeep Gladiator 4xe (Upcoming Model)
Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa has confirmed via a LinkedIn post the company’s plans to launch a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid in 2025.
Image: Front three-quarter view of a Jeep Gladiator, representing the gas-powered model, with a plug-in hybrid 4xe version on the horizon.
The Jeep Gladiator 4xe is expected to adopt a similar powertrain to the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe. Current Jeep PHEVs combine a 2.0L gasoline engine with two electric motors powered by a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This system produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD system. A pure-electric driving mode is anticipated, offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 26 miles.
Toyota Tacoma/Tundra Plug-in Hybrid (Upcoming Models)
Toyota is considering adding plug-in hybrid versions of both the Tacoma and Tundra for the U.S. market, according to a CNBC report. Jack Hollis, Toyota’s Executive Vice President for North America, indicated that the company is evaluating new options for its pickup truck lineup in response to evolving emission and fuel economy regulations. While confirming the potential for expanding Toyota’s pickup offerings, details regarding production timelines for a Toyota Tacoma Prime or Toyota Tundra Prime remain undisclosed. A Tacoma PHEV would further enhance Toyota’s presence in the small truck hybrid segment.
Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid (Upcoming Model)
Ford has confirmed plans to incorporate “multi-energy technology” into the next generation of F-Series Super Duty trucks. While specifics about the alternative powertrain are not yet revealed, industry expectations point towards a hybrid system for next-gen F-Series Super Duty models.
Image: A 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty, representing the heavy-duty truck line that is expected to gain a hybrid powertrain option.
A Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid, potentially featuring a range-extender system, could be available for sale 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., as well as the Oakville Assembly Complex in Canada, which is slated to become a Super Duty production site in 2026.
Ram Mid-Size Pickup Truck (Upcoming Model)
In November 2023, Stellantis announced plans to introduce a new mid-size pickup truck and reactivate production at the Belvidere Assembly Plant. A USD 5 billion investment was committed to reopen the facility and commence two-shift production in 2027, with an anticipated annual output of 80,000 to 100,000 units.
While the reopening of the Belvidere Assembly Plant has been delayed, Ram CEO Chris Feuell has affirmed that the new mid-size pickup truck “will be brought to market,” as reported by MotorTrend. Feuell suggested a potential shift to a unibody construction, departing from traditional body-on-frame designs, and hinted at the use of the STLA Medium platform. A hybrid powertrain is widely expected for this future Ram mid-size pickup truck, further expanding hybrid options in the small truck and mid-size segments.
By Shrawan Raja
Founder & CEO
obd2global.com
