3Get ready for the electric truck revolution! As an automotive engineer and green tech enthusiast, I’ll be your guide to the best electric trucks for 2024 and 2023. Discover their game-changing benefits and potential drawbacks to get valuable insights about the top electric pickup trucks available to purchase in 2024 and 2023.
Join me in exploring the electrifying future of pickup EVs and find out which electric truck is right for you.
Best Electric Trucks
Here are my picks for the best EV trucks 2024 / 2023 available today:
1. Ford F150 Lightning
BEST OVERALL
The F150 Lightning is Ford’s all-electric version of the best-selling F150 pickup. It offers up to 775 lb-ft of torque for strong towing capacity and acceleration. The Lightning also has a range of up to 320 miles on a charge.
Key features include the mega power frunk, intelligent range estimate, enhanced Pro Power Onboard, and Intelligent Backup Power for home energy in an outage. The Lightning has advanced technology like over-the-air updates and an available 15.5″ touchscreen.
The Ford F150 Lightning is the best electric truck available today in the US. I ranked the this pickup EV as the best option because it offers strong performance, range, towing and payload capabilities in an electric version of America’s best selling truck. All of this at a reasonable price.
Here are the key specs of the F150 Lightning electric truck:
| Range | 320 miles |
| Power | 452 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.8 seconds |
| Max Towing | 10,000 lb |
| Max Payload | 2,000 lb |
| Battery Capacity | 98-131 kWh |
| Price starting from | $49,995 |
Here’s a great video review of the Ford F150 electric truck:
Pros:
- Instant torque acceleration
- Onboard power generation
- Smooth quiet ride
- Cutting edge technology
- Available tax credits reduce cost
Cons:
- Range could be better
- Lower towing range
- Not as flashy as some rivals
2. Rivian R1T
A Close Second!
The Rivian R1T is an electric pickup with up to 400 miles of range, quad-motor AWD, and rapid acceleration. It offers an upscale, tech-focused interior and clever storage solutions like a front trunk and gear tunnel.
The R1T excels at blending utility and performance into an electric pickup packed with innovation. Wether you need to tow your RV or simply enjoy its off-road performance, the R1T electric truck has you covered!
The Rivian R1T earns a close second spot on my selection of the best electric pickup trucks. With its innovative features, styling, and increased electric range, this EV shines as one of the most popular options available in the US today.
| Range | 400 miles |
| Power | 533-835 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3-4.5 seconds |
| Max Towing | 11,000 lb |
| Max Payload | 1,760 lb |
| Battery Capacity | 105-180 kWh |
| Price starting from | $73,000 |
If you are wondering why I only ranked the Rivian R1T second, you should know that there are some issues that the company will hopefully fix soon. Those may not be a deal breaker for you, however, it’s good to be aware of them. Check out this interesting video from a Rivian R1T owner to know what those design issues are:
Pros:
- Thrilling yet smooth driving experience
- High-quality materials and build
- Lots of storage space
- Regular over-the-air updates
- Great for outdoor adventures
- Class-leading range
Cons:
- Expensive purchase price
- Short truck bed length
- Service center availability
- Some design flaws for heavy duty users
3. GMC Hummer EV
The Most Powerful
The GMC Hummer EV pickup is an insanely powerful off-road beast with 1,000 hp and a 3 second 0-60 time. It has excellent off-road capabilities thanks to features like adaptive air suspension and 4-wheel steering.
With outrageous power and torque, the Hummer EV is the ultimate electric performance truck. The main drawback is that with all of this power and weight, it uses quite a lot of electricity.
| Range | 381 miles |
| Power | 1,000 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3 seconds |
| Max Towing | 7,500 lb |
| Max Payload | 1,300 lb |
| Battery Capacity | 246 kWh |
| Price starting from | $90,695 |
Here’s a video review after using this electric truck for 6 months:
Pros:
- Fast acceleration
- Off-road capable
- Luxurious interior
- Advanced technology
- Smooth ride quality
- Camera also under the truck
Cons:
- Very heavy weight
- Expensive
- Low energy efficiency
4. Chevrolet Silverado EV
The Silverado EV is an all-electric version of Chevy’s popular full-size pickup. It offers up to 400 miles of range and fast charging capabilities.
The Silverado EV generates up to 754 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque from its electric powertrain. It can tow up to 10,000 lbs and has a multi-flex tailgate for extra cargo flexibility.
| Range | 400 miles (450 mi on the 2024 model) |
| Power | 754 hp |
| Torque | 785 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds |
| Max Towing | 10,000 lbs |
| Battery Capacity | 200 kWh |
| Price starting from | $50,000 |
Pros:
- Long 450 mile range (2024)
- Fast charging capability
- Powerful performance
- Spacious interior space
- Lower operating costs
Cons:
- Expensive
- Relatively low max payload capacity
5. Ram 1500 REV
BEST For Towing
The Ram 1500 REV is an upcoming all-electric truck with up to 500 miles of range, fast charging, and high performance. It will offer capability for towing, payload, off-roading, and charging other EVs.
The 1500 REV has an innovative frunk, luxury interior options, and advanced tech like hands-free driving assist. It will come in several trims when it launches in 2024.
| Range | 350-500 miles |
| Power | 654 hp |
| Torque | 620 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.4 seconds |
| Max Towing | 14,000 lb |
| Max Payload | 2,700 lb |
| Battery Capacity | 168-229 kWh |
Pros:
- Instant torque
- Low maintenance
- Impressive payload
Cons:
- Not on sale yet
- Expensive higher trims
6. Tesla Cybertruck
The Cybertruck has a futuristic design and promises up to 500 miles of range and 14,000 lbs of towing capacity. It offers excellent utility despite its polarizing looks.
It has up to 3,500 pounds of payload capacity and 100 cubic feet of exterior lockable storage, including a bed that can support weight on top.
With up to 3 electric motors, the Cybertruck will deliver strong performance when it hits the market.
This electric truck is expected to become available in 2024.
| Range (Expected) | 500 miles |
| Power | N/A |
| 0-60 mph | 2.9 seconds |
| Max Towing | 14,000 lb |
| Max Payload | N/A |
| Battery Capacity | N/A |
| Price (Expected) | $40,000-$70,000 |
Pros:
- Futuristic design
- Long range
- Excellent towing
Cons:
- Polarizing looks
- Specs still uncertain
7. Toyota Tacoma EV
Toyota has confirmed it is developing an electric pickup truck, likely a version of the Tacoma EV. The Tacoma EV is expected to launch around late 2024 – 2025 as part of Toyota’s plan to release 15 EVs by 2025.
The Tacoma EV will likely have an off-road capable design, similar to what Toyota showed with its Pickup EV concept in 2021. That concept had an aggressive stance, increased ground clearance, and all-terrain tires suggesting off-road intentions.
Performance details are unknown but the Tacoma EV should deliver strong acceleration and torque thanks to its electric powertrain. The range is uncertain but Toyota is improving its battery technology to avoid short range issues.
Pricing for the Tacoma EV is still unknown but it will likely start above $50,000. The Tacoma EV will compete with trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning when it will hit the market.
8. GMC Sierra EV
The GMC Sierra EV pickup offers up to 400 miles of range and 754 hp from its electric powertrain. It has excellent off-road capabilities thanks to 4-wheel steering and CrabWalk mode.
The Sierra EV features GM’s Ultium battery platform, fast DC charging, and advanced driver assist systems like Super Cruise. It comes in several trims including the luxurious Denali.
The GMC Sierra EV is expected to launch in 2024.
| Range | 400 miles |
| Power | 754 hp |
| Torque | 785 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds |
| Max Towing | 9,500 lb |
| Battery Capacity | 200 kWh |
| Price (Expected) | $50,000+ |
Pros:
- Excellent range
- Strong performance and torque
- Advanced driver assistance features
Cons:
- Not on sale yet
Why Consider an Electric Truck?
Electric trucks provide several key advantages over their gas-powered counterparts:
- Instant torque for incredible acceleration – Electric motors provide 100% of their torque instantly, allowing these trucks to rocket from 0-60 mph in 3-4 seconds.
- Quiet, smooth operation – No loud engine noise or vibration.
- Lower operating costs – Electricity is cheaper to fuel than gasoline, and EVs require less maintenance.
- Powerful onboard generators – Electric trucks can power tools, homes, and even entire construction sites.
- Environmental benefits – EVs produce zero emissions while on the go, which is better for the planet.
- More storage space – not having an engine, electric pickup trucks tend to offer more space to carry your things.
How Do Electric Trucks Work?
Electric trucks are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs that supply electricity to one or more electric motors. The motors provide torque directly to the wheels, often with a single-speed transmission. Most current models have either rear-wheel drive with a motor over the rear axle, or dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations.
Instead of refueling at a gas station, electric trucks are charged by plugging them into an EV charging station, also called a charger. You can also create one of those at home and power it using solar panels. Charging adds energy back into the battery pack. The time it takes to recharge depends on the size of the battery pack and the power level of the charging station.
Range and Charging Considerations
Range and charging capabilities should be top priorities when evaluating electric trucks. Consider:
- Usable range – How far can the truck drive on a full charge? Look for at least 250 miles of range.
- Charging options – Faster charging enables longer trips. Look for trucks that support DC fast charging of at least 150 kW.
- Public charging access – More public chargers along your common routes makes things easier.
Also, keep in mind that battery capacity decreases over time. In cold weather, range is reduced. And driving with heavy loads or while towing will significantly reduce range.
Choosing the Best Electric Truck for You
When picking the best electric truck for your needs, consider:
- Your budget – Electric trucks span from around $40,000 up to $110,000+.
- How you plan to use it – Towing, off-roading, hauling, daily commute, etc.
- Available tax credits and incentives – Can help reduce your purchase price.
- Your charging situation – Home, workplace, and public charging access.
Carefully weighing these factors will ensure you select the optimal electric truck for your lifestyle and budget.
Conclusion
Electric trucks are only getting better each year. We can expect longer ranges, faster charging, reduced costs, and advancements in battery tech in the near future. It’s an exciting time for electric vehicle lovers as these zero-emission trucks enter the mainstream.
So, what are the best electric trucks? Based on their overall capabilities and value, the Ford F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T, and GMC Hummer EV currently stand at the head of the pack. But new models from Tesla, Chevy, Toyota, and Ram are hot on their heels. The electric pickup truck segment will continue to grow more compelling with each passing year.
Have you made the switch to an eco-friendly electric truck yet? Now you have plenty of great options to choose from!