The Best New and Upcoming EV Trucks Unveiled
In the world where the roar of a V8 is slowly being replaced by the hum of electric motors, the domain of the burly, mud-splattering truck is undergoing a revolutionary shift. The battleground has new contenders; from Chevrolet's muscle to Ford's reliability, GMC's luxury, Rivian's innovation, Tesla's audacity, and RAM's brute strength, each is vying to redefine what it means to be a truck in the electric age. Join us as we charge headfirst into the fray, showcasing the electrifying prowess, the luxuries and pitfalls of these new mechanical beasts. For both the die-hard petrolhead and the eco-conscious newcomer, this journey through the latest EV trucks promises a glimpse into the not-so-distant, electrified future of hauling and adventure.
The latest EV trucks for 2024 and 2025 include models from Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Rivian, Tesla, and RAM, with starting prices ranging from $49,995 for the Ford F-150 Lightning to $96,550 for the GMC Hummer EV. These trucks offer a variety of ranges, from 240 miles for the F-150 Lightning to up to 500 miles for the upcoming RAM 1500 REV. Fast charging times vary, with some models adding 100 miles in as little as 10 minutes. Features such as range, charging times, and starting prices differ significantly across models.
Chevrolet Silverado EV
The Chevrolet Silverado EV, set to be released in early 2024, will start at $74,800, with fully-optioned models reaching up to $106,895. It boasts an impressive range of up to 450 miles, it has 785 lb. -ft. of Torque and 754 hp of power allowing it to go from 0-60 mph in under 4.5s with Wide Open Watts, and can tow up to 10,000 lbs. The Silverado EV is designed for rapid charging, allowing it to add 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes, with expectations of adding 300 miles of range in 30 minutes under optimal conditions.
Ford F-150 Lightning
The Ford F-150 Lightning, available now, starts at $49,995, with the price of fully-optioned models reaching up to $91,995. It offers a range between 240 to 320 miles, this replaces the old V-8 of the traditional F-150 with an electric powertrain providing 452 hp (Standard Range) up to 580 hp (extended range battery) allowing the Lightning Platinum to do 0-60 mph in 4 s. The maximum tow capacity is 7700 - 10,000 lbs (depending on whether you choose standard or extended range battery) and the payload is 1800 - 2000 lbs. Using a 150kW+ DC fast charger, the standard-range 98kWh pack can charge from 15-80% in about 36 minutes. The extended-range 131kWh pack can charge from 15-80% in 41 minutes.
GMC Hummer EV
The GMC Hummer EV, already available for purchase, starts at a price of $96,550, with the top-end models priced at $112,595. It features a range of 329 miles on a full charge. For quick charging, it can add 100 miles of range in about 10 minutes, aiming to provide up to 300 miles of range in just 30 minutes, under optimal conditions. The fastest EV hummer can launch from 0-60 in under 3.5 s, powered by electric motors producing 830 HP.
Rivian R1T
The Rivian R1T, already available for purchase, is priced starting at $71,070, with the highest configuration reaching $105,000. It offers a versatile range of 314 to 400 miles on a full charge. For fast charging, the R1T can add 200 miles of range in just 35 minutes, benefiting from its capacity to accept up to 220 kW of power, which is above average for electric vehicles. It makes up to 835 horsepower and can get to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds, it can also tow as much as 11,000 pounds.
Tesla Cybertruck
The Tesla Cybertruck, slated for release in 2024, starts at $60,990, with the highest-end model priced at $99,990. It's designed to offer a range of 250 to 340 miles on a full charge. For fast charging, it has been announced that the Cybertruck can recover up to 136 miles of range in 15 minutes, although it has experienced delays leading up to its anticipated launch. It will have up to 834 hp towing up to 11,000 lbs.
RAM 1500 REV
The RAM 1500 REV, scheduled for release in late 2024, has not yet had its pricing announced. It's expected to offer a notable range of 350 to 500 miles on a full charge, positioning it as a highly competitive option in the electric truck market. For fast charging, it can add 110 miles of range in just 10 minutes, indicating advanced charging capabilities that cater to both daily commuting and longer trips. The maximum payload will be 2700 lbs with maximum towing capacity at 14,000 lbs.
What are the disadvantages of EV Trucks:
Major drawbacks of EV trucks include their higher initial purchase price compared to traditional trucks, longer charging times compared to refueling with gasoline or diesel, reduced range when towing or in cold weather, and the current limited availability of fast-charging infrastructure in some areas. These factors can affect the practicality and convenience of using EV trucks for some users, especially those requiring vehicles for heavy-duty tasks or long-distance travel.
What are the advantages of EV trucks?
EV trucks offer several advantages, including lower operating costs due to cheaper electricity compared to gasoline or diesel, minimal maintenance needs since they have fewer moving parts, immediate torque and fast acceleration, potential tax incentives, reduced environmental impact as they produce zero tailpipe emissions, and the ability to charge at home for added convenience.
What are some interesting lighting features of EV Trucks?
EV trucks often feature advanced lighting technologies, including LED headlights for improved visibility, adaptive lighting systems that adjust based on driving conditions, ambient interior lighting for a customizable cabin atmosphere, and distinctive light signatures that enhance the vehicle's aesthetic and make it recognizable on the road. Some models also offer interactive lighting features, such as welcome lights that activate as the driver approaches, and functional lighting for cargo areas to enhance usability in low-light conditions.
As EV trucks roll onto the market, their novelty also brings an air of uncertainty regarding long-term reliability. With the technology still in its infancy compared to the tried-and-tested internal combustion engines, it may take several years before we have comprehensive data on the durability and reliability of electric trucks. This period of adaptation and discovery means that enthusiasts of traditional trucks have ample opportunity to enhance their vehicles. Upgrading with parts from RECON, for instance, offers an immediate enhancement in performance and aesthetics, keeping the spirit of truck customization alive while the EV segment matures.