In many countries, the push for better climate emissions has also pushed for better vehicle emissions. Over the last few years, there has been a greater push for electric vehicles, or EVs. Over the last decade or so, companies have embraced fully electric car models because of their electric car capabilities.
Pickup trucks are widely popular in the U.S. and play a prominent role in American culture. Therefore, many manufacturers are aiming to branch into the EV market with pickup trucks and work trucks. If you’re interested in learning more about electric pickup trucks and the best EV work trucks soon to be released, this guide will explore these environmentally friendly selections.
The expectations of EV pickup trucks
Over the last decade, there has been an increase in all-electric cars. However, there has yet to be an all-electric pickup truck to come onto the market. Pickup trucks have an added unique quality and design than that of a sedan or minivan. The majority of pickup trucks on the market have either two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive capabilities. Trucks bring something more to a vehicle than a car or van: haul and tow capacity.
Pickups need to haul equipment in the bed of the truck and occasionally tow trailers or travel campers. Accordingly, the battery needs to be strong enough to meet the demands of a 4-wheel-drive truck. Also, the weight of the battery may be a cause for concern regarding long-term battery life for the vehicle itself. The battery for the truck needs to charge in a reasonable amount of time for everyday use.
Benefits of electric pickup trucks
There are countless benefits to electric pickup trucks that make them a viable choice on the market for all-electric automobiles. Most EVs are exceptionally environmentally friendly. Also, all-electric vehicles are zero-emissions based while driving, which equates to better air quality. Electric vehicle motors are often far quieter than conventional diesel and gasoline engines. Furthermore, electric motors usually cost less to run and are more cost-effective to service in the long run.
These features are also anticipated to be a significant component with electric pickup trucks currently in prototype and preproduction while adding the benefits of a regular pickup truck.
Some of the concept models on the market currently for possible production are said to have full charge components considerably close to the all-electric sedan equivalents. Here’s a list of some of the soon-to-be-released best EV work truck and electric pickup truck options said to have the most optimal charge and battery capacity:
- Tesla Cybertruck – Projected to have a 250-mile range per charge in base models and up to a 500-mile range in upgraded models.
- Rivian R1T – Anticipated to have between 250 and 400-mile range, depending on the battery package purchased with this truck.
- GMC Hummer EV Pickup – Aimed for up to 350-mile range per charge and up to 1,000 horsepower.
- Ford F-150 Lighting – One of the most affordable choices, this truck starts at under $40,000 and has a mileage range of up to 300 miles.
Drawbacks to EV pickup trucks
Although there are several benefits to EV trucks, there are some other things to consider and potential drawbacks to these vehicles. A portion of electric pickup trucks is still currently in preproduction status set for release in 2022. While these releases are anticipated for 2022, release dates, features, and prices are subject to change as they reach closure to assembly line production and sale.
There are other essential considerations that automakers and consumers should think about with electric pickup trucks. The price of these vehicles may be considerably higher than other EV options because of the capabilities of trucks. For example, the Rivian R1T has a starting MSRP of over $67,000. While there will be more affordable options, consumers need to compare prices to meet their budget and vehicle needs for the best EV work truck or electric pickup truck varieties.
Another potential drawback is the weight of this type of vehicle may be rather heavy for some batteries. This can translate to having a shorter battery life and shorter distance ranges on a charge due to the weight.
It’s also important to note that many electric vehicles are specific to their chargers. This means that a Rivian truck will only be able to charge on a Rivian-approved charger, and this also goes for other manufacturers. Additionally, a larger vehicle and larger battery may also mean the time it takes to produce a full charge will be greater than smaller weighted EV options.
Closing remarks on EV trucks
It’s no surprise that electric vehicles have increased in popularity over the last decade, and even more so over the previous few years, thanks to their reliability and environmental friendliness. The more these types of vehicles branch onto the market, the more affordable they become.
While there are many benefits to electric pickup trucks and the best EV work trucks set for release in 2022, there are other factors to consider between the price and charge capacity. As time progresses, it will be interesting to see how long-time American pickup truck owners react and potentially embrace the EV pickup truck.
