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 substantial payload and towing capacities. Data from Car and Driver highlights this dominance, revealing that trucks occupied the top three spots in U.S. vehicle sales in 2023.
However, the availability of Hybrid Pickup Truck options in the U.S. has historically been limited. This scarcity stemmed from past concerns about business viability, primarily due to elevated costs and anxieties surrounding long-term maintenance. Despite the potential for enhanced fuel efficiency, the higher initial purchase price and potential battery replacement expenses previously deterred many buyers. Yet, as electrification gains traction across the automotive industry, this market dynamic is undergoing a significant transformation.
Currently, the American market boasts five distinct mild and full hybrid pickup truck models. This article will delve into these existing options and explore the exciting new hybrid pickup truck choices on the horizon for consumers.
Ford F-150 Hybrid: The Current Leader
The Ford F-150 Hybrid showcases a powerful hybrid system, seamlessly integrating an electric motor with its robust engine, as seen in this front three-quarter view of the Limited trim.
Key Specifications of the F-150 Hybrid
The Ford F-150 Hybrid maintains the familiar aesthetics of the standard F-150, with the hybrid powertrain being the key differentiator. Under the hood lies the robust 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid V6 engine. This engine works in conjunction with a 46.5 hp electric motor, fueled by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. 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 is now standard on the hybrid pickup truck, enhancing its all-weather and off-road capability.
Fuel efficiency is a significant advantage of the F-150 Hybrid, achieving a combined 23 MPG. This figure significantly surpasses the fuel economy of other available powertrains in the F-150 lineup. Furthermore, Ford’s Pro Power Onboard exportable power system comes standard on the F-150 Hybrid. It offers a standard 2.4 kW system with up to four 120 V/20 A sockets, with an option to upgrade to a more powerful 7.2 kW system featuring six outlets. Despite its efficiency, the hybrid pickup truck retains impressive capability, with a towing capacity of up to 11,200 lbs. and a payload capacity of up to 1,750 lbs.
F-150 Hybrid Pricing and Trims
The Ford F-150 Hybrid is exclusively available in the SuperCrew configuration with a choice of a 5.5-ft. or 6.5-ft. bed. Trim levels include XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum, offering a range of features and luxury. Pricing for the Ford F-150 Hybrid starts at USD 58,065, which includes USD 1,995 destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee.
Ford Maverick Hybrid: Affordable and Efficient
The Ford Maverick Hybrid, pictured in a front three-quarter view, stands out as an incredibly popular and affordable hybrid pickup, capturing significant market attention.
The Ford Maverick Hybrid distinguishes itself as the most budget-friendly hybrid pickup truck in the U.S. market. Its exceptional value proposition contributed to its popularity in 2023, becoming one of the fastest-selling vehicles according to iSeeCars data.
Maverick Hybrid Powertrain and Capabilities
The Maverick Hybrid’s powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine paired 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 horsepower. The gasoline engine delivers 155 lb.-ft. of torque, and while Ford hasn’t disclosed 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 versatility by offering an optional all-wheel-drive system and the 4K Tow Package.
The Maverick Hybrid excels in fuel economy, achieving a combined 37 mpg for the front-wheel-drive 2024 model year. However, as a light-duty hybrid pickup truck, its towing and payload capacities are more modest compared to the F-150 Hybrid. The Maverick Hybrid offers a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs. and a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 lbs.
Maverick Hybrid Pricing
The Ford Maverick Hybrid starts at a competitive price of USD 28,685, inclusive of USD 1,595 destination charges and a USD 695 acquisition fee.
Ram 1500 eTorque: Mild Hybrid Efficiency
The Ram 1500 eTorque, pictured here towing, incorporates 48-volt mild-hybrid technology to enhance fuel efficiency while maintaining robust truck capabilities.
Ram introduced eTorque mild-hybrid technology to the Ram 1500 truck in 2019. While not a full hybrid capable of electric-only propulsion, this system is designed to improve fuel efficiency. The Ram 1500 eTorque underwent a facelift in November 2023, refreshing its styling and features.
eTorque System 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, working with a compact 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery pack operating at 48 volts. This system facilitates key fuel-saving functions, including 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 for 2WD models and 21 MPG for 4WD models.
Ram 1500 eTorque Pricing
Prices for the Ram 1500 eTorque in the U.S. begin at USD 42,270, including USD 1,995 destination charges.
Toyota Tundra Hybrid: Powerful and Capable
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid Capstone, shown in a front three-quarter view, blends Toyota’s reputation for reliability with a potent hybrid powertrain for enhanced performance and efficiency.
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid represents another strong hybrid pickup truck option. It is available in seven 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 variants utilize a non-hybrid engine.
Tundra Hybrid Performance and Efficiency
The Tundra Hybrid’s powertrain delivers impressive performance, with a peak output of 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. The electric motor 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 gearbox.
The Tundra Hybrid is designed for off-road adventures, with all trims featuring a 2-speed transfer case with high and low range, an 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 efficiency at up to 22 MPG (2WD) and 21 MPG (4WD) combined. 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 5,710 lbs.
Tundra Hybrid Pricing
The Toyota Tundra Hybrid starts at USD 59,950, which includes a USD 1,945 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Toyota Tacoma Hybrid: Electrified Mid-Size Power
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid TRD Pro Terra, displayed in a front three-quarter view, represents Toyota’s commitment to hybrid technology across its pickup truck lineup, bringing electrification to the popular mid-size segment.
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 brands by 2025. The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is available in various configurations, including specialized trims for off-grid overlanding and desert racing.
Tacoma Hybrid Powertrain and Efficiency
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 system 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, achieving an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of up to 24 MPG.
Tacoma Hybrid Pricing
The Toyota Tacoma Hybrid starts at USD 47,815, including a USD 1,495 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Future Hybrid Pickup Trucks: Expanding Options
Looking ahead, the hybrid pickup truck market is poised for significant expansion with several exciting models on the horizon.
Scout Terra EREV: Extended Range and Retro Design
The Scout Terra concept, showcased in a front three-quarter view, is set to revive the iconic Scout brand with a modern extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) pickup truck.
The Scout Terra, from Volkswagen Group’s revived Scout Motors, will be offered as both an EV and an EREV variant for the U.S. market. The EREV, 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.
The Scout Terra is designed as a full-size pickup truck on a ladder-frame chassis, measuring 229.2 inches long, 79.9 inches wide, and 77.7 inches tall, with a 148.6-inch wheelbase and a crew cab with 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. Production is slated to begin in Blythewood, South Carolina, in 2027.
Ram 1500 Ramcharger: Range-Extending Powerhouse
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger, pictured here, is designed to deliver an impressive combined range of 690 miles by combining a powerful battery with a range-extending gasoline generator.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger, a range extender variant of the Ram 1500 REV, will utilize dual motors producing 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque. A front motor disconnect feature enhances efficiency. A 92 kWh battery pack is standard, supplemented by a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine with a 130 kW generator and a 27-gallon gas tank.
The 130 kW generator charges the battery pack, extending the range and providing power to the motors on demand. The battery pack can be fast-charged at up to 145 kW, adding approximately 50 miles of range in 10 minutes. Ram estimates a combined range of 690 miles, a 0-60 mph acceleration 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 and GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrids: GM’s Electrified Push
General Motors has confirmed plans to introduce plug-in hybrid vehicles in North America, including Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid models. This strategic shift reflects a response to evolving market demands and a focus on balancing electrification with practical truck capabilities.
While GM has launched the Chevrolet Silverado EV, plug-in hybrid versions of the Silverado and Sierra are seen as attractive solutions for customers seeking environmental considerations without sacrificing core trucking performance. The GMC Sierra Plug-in Hybrid is expected to share technology with the Silverado PHEV, offering a more premium and feature-rich option.
Kia TV and Hyundai TE EREVs: Compact Truck Competition
Kia and Hyundai are also entering the extended-range electric vehicle pickup truck segment. The Kia TV EREV and Hyundai TE EREV are anticipated to be compact pickup trucks, potentially challenging the Ford Maverick Hybrid.
The Kia TV EREV is projected to enter production around 2028 or 2029, featuring an electric range exceeding 329 miles and a towing capacity over 10,000 lbs. The Hyundai TE EREV is expected to share a similar timeline and potentially platform with the Kia TV, expanding Hyundai Motor Group’s presence in the hybrid pickup truck market.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz, shown in a front three-quarter live image, may serve as the foundation for the upcoming Hyundai TE EREV, bringing hybrid technology to Hyundai’s lifestyle-oriented pickup.
Jeep Gladiator 4xe: Plug-in Hybrid Off-Roader
Jeep has confirmed the upcoming launch of a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid in 2025.
The Jeep Gladiator, shown in a front three-quarter view, will soon be available as a 4xe plug-in hybrid, combining Jeep’s off-road prowess with enhanced efficiency.
The Gladiator 4xe is likely to adopt a similar powertrain to the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, pairing a 2.0L gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh battery pack. This system produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, with an EPA-estimated electric range of up to 26 miles.
Toyota Tacoma and Tundra Plug-in Hybrids: Further Electrification
Toyota is evaluating the addition of plug-in hybrid versions of the Tacoma and Tundra for the U.S. market. This consideration reflects Toyota’s response to tightening emissions and fuel economy regulations and the potential to further expand its electrified pickup truck lineup.
Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid: Heavy-Duty Electrification
Ford has announced “multi-energy technology” for the next-generation F-Series Super Duty trucks, widely anticipated to include a hybrid system.
The Ford F-250 Super Duty, pictured here, represents the heavy-duty segment poised to embrace hybrid technology in the near future.
A Ford F-Series Super Duty Hybrid, potentially featuring a range-extender system, could debut as early as 2026. Production of electrified Super Duty trucks is planned across multiple factories, including facilities in the U.S. and Canada.
Ram Mid-Size Pickup Truck Hybrid: Platform Surprise
Ram is developing a new mid-size pickup truck, with details about its platform and powertrain still emerging. While the reopening of the Belvidere Assembly Plant has been delayed, Ram CEO Chris Feuell has affirmed the commitment to bringing this mid-size pickup to market.
The platform choice is expected to be a surprise, potentially indicating a unibody construction. It is anticipated that this future Ram mid-size pickup will utilize the STLA Medium platform and be available with a hybrid powertrain, adding another compelling option to the hybrid pickup truck landscape.
By Shrawan Raja Founder & CEO
An automobile engineer with extensive experience analyzing the global car market since 2005, specializing in EVs since 2008. Seventeen years in online automotive publishing, reviewing automotive technologies, and interviewing industry leaders.
