Ford’s recent announcement about developing an all-electric F-150 signals a significant shift in the automotive industry. As more manufacturers venture into electric pickups, a crucial question arises for truck enthusiasts and potential buyers alike: How do these electric newcomers stack up against the tried-and-true gas-powered trucks we’ve come to depend on? Cargurus Compare is here to delve into the specifics, examining the strengths and challenges of both electric and traditional trucks. Let’s explore how these automotive worlds collide and what it means for the future of pickups.
Gas-Powered Truck Giants: A Legacy of Power
When we talk about robust trucks, names like the Chevy Silverado 1500 immediately come to mind. These gas-powered behemoths have long set the standard for capability. For example, the Silverado 1500 boasts impressive figures, offering a payload capacity of up to 2,285 pounds and a towing capacity reaching 12,200 pounds, contingent on its specific configuration. Stepping down in size, but not in grit, we find midsize contenders like the Ford Ranger. Revived in 2019, the Ranger provides a solid towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a payload of 1,860 pounds. Moreover, these gas-powered trucks often offer reasonable fuel efficiency for their class, with the Ford Ranger estimated by the EPA to achieve up to 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Side view of a red Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup truck parked on a paved road, showcasing its robust design and size, highlighting the traditional gas-powered truck aesthetic.
Electric Truck Challengers: Torque and Technology Take the Stage
The electric vehicle revolution is rapidly expanding, and the truck segment is no exception. While the market for electric trucks is still developing, some impressive contenders are emerging. Rivian, for instance, unveiled its R1T at the Los Angeles Auto Show, capturing attention with its impressive specs. The R1T, equipped with the 180kWh battery pack, boasts a remarkable 400-mile range on a single charge. Furthermore, it delivers a staggering 700 horsepower and 826 pound-feet of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 11,000 pounds. Even with a smaller 135kWh battery, the torque remains the same, and horsepower actually increases to 745. The base 105kWh battery still offers a respectable 402 horsepower and 413 lb-feet of torque.
Another company pushing the boundaries is Workhorse, an Ohio-based manufacturer. Their W-15 is a hybrid pickup designed for work environments, capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds and offering an 80-mile electric range. It also includes practical features for job sites, such as a 7.2kW power outlet for tools, eliminating the need to keep the truck running for power.
Navigating the Electric Truck Terrain: Challenges on the Horizon
Despite the excitement surrounding electric trucks, automakers face several hurdles in their widespread adoption. One significant challenge is the price point. As previously noted by Cargurus, affordable pickup trucks are becoming increasingly rare, and electric trucks are following this trend. Electric truck prices can start around $60,000, and adding features like extended range batteries can push the cost even higher. A Cargurus shopper poll indicated that consumers are generally less willing to pay a premium for electric vehicles, even with added features.
Capability is another crucial consideration. While electric trucks offer impressive torque and towing figures in some cases, the real-world performance and longevity under heavy-duty use are still being evaluated compared to established gas trucks. Finally, consumer acceptance remains a factor. A recent Cargurus survey revealed that many shoppers are hesitant to switch to electric vehicles, citing concerns about charging infrastructure and range anxiety.
Hybrid Trucks: Bridging the Gap?
For buyers seeking improved fuel economy in a truck without fully committing to electric, hybrid options and fuel-efficient gas engines provide an interim solution. The Chevy Silverado 1500, for example, offers an Ecotec V8 engine that utilizes cylinder deactivation technology to enhance fuel efficiency when full power isn’t needed. Ford’s EcoBoost engines, available in the F-150, are designed to deliver more power while consuming less fuel compared to traditional engines. Ram also incorporates eTorque mild-hybrid technology in the 2019 1500 models for both V6 and V8 engines. However, for now, traditional gasoline-powered trucks continue to dominate the market due to their established capabilities and broader consumer familiarity.
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