The Electric Truck War Is On
Electric pickup trucks aren’t prototypes anymore. They’re here, they’re fast, and in 2025 and 2026, competition is heating up with real-world models hitting driveways, job sites, and backroads across America.
From Ford’s Lightning to Tesla’s wild Cybertruck, from Rivian’s adventure-ready R1T to GM’s massive Silverado EV, today’s EV pickups are blending traditional truck utility with serious electric innovation. Some are towing 10,000 pounds. Others have over 700 horsepower. Many are offering more torque and faster 0-60 times than gas trucks ever could.
But they’re not all created equal — and specs on paper rarely tell the full story.
This blog breaks it all down: range, towing, price, charging, and real-life performance. Whether you’re hauling gear, road-tripping with a camper, or just want to make the switch without losing truck capability, this guide will help you pick the electric truck that actually fits your life.
Why Electric Pickups Are Suddenly Everywhere
We’ve gone from zero viable options just a few years ago to six+ electric trucks either on sale or arriving by 2026. Why the surge?
- Torque: Electric motors deliver 100% torque instantly — perfect for towing.
- Simplicity: No transmission, fewer moving parts, lower long-term maintenance.
- Tax credits: Most trucks qualify for $7,500 federal rebates (if built in the U.S.).
- Innovation: Lockable frunks, mobile power stations, vehicle-to-home backup power.
- Demand: Americans love pickups. Automakers are just giving them electric versions.
What to Look for in an Electric Truck (That Actually Matters)
Forget the hype — here’s what matters in the real world:
1. Range While Towing
Most truck buyers don’t care about theoretical range. They care about range with a trailer hooked up. Some trucks lose 50% or more of their stated range when towing.
2. Charging Speed
You’ll want at least 150–250 kW fast charging. Otherwise, you’ll spend 45+ minutes at a station waiting for juice.
3. Payload and Bed Size
Can it haul lumber? Does the bed have tie-downs, a plug, or a power tailgate? What’s the usable weight rating?
4. 4WD and Off-Road Capability
Every truck on this list is all-wheel drive. But not every truck has real off-road suspension or underbody protection.
5. Real Price After Incentives
Some trucks qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. Others don’t. Some are dealer-available. Others are still waitlist-only.
The Trucks (2025–2026)
Let’s go through each electric truck that matters — what it does well, where it falls short, and who it’s really for.
Ford F-150 Lightning
Available Now | Price: $54,995–$92,000 | Range: 240–320 mi | Towing: Up to 10,000 lbs
The F-150 Lightning is Ford’s bestselling EV and for good reason — it looks, feels, and drives like a real truck, because it is one. It’s built on the traditional F-150 frame, which means familiar controls, standard bed sizes, and no gimmicks.
Standout Features:
- Dual-motor 4WD standard
- Intelligent range calculator adjusts for payload/towing
- Largest front trunk of any pickup
- Pro Power Onboard system: run power tools, tailgates, or your house
Weaknesses:
- Range drops fast while towing (half or more)
- Interior feels dated next to Silverado EV or Rivian
- Slow to charge on older stations
Best for: Ford loyalists, contractors, and real work-truck use cases.
Tesla Cybertruck
Rolling Out Now | Price: $60,990–$99,990 | Range: 250–340 mi | Towing: 11,000 lbs
Tesla’s most controversial vehicle is finally here. It’s fast, polarizing, and filled with futuristic features. The Cybertruck is stainless steel, bulletproof, and completely rethinks the truck layout — no mirrors, steer-by-wire, and optional crab-walking.
Standout Features:
- Rear-wheel steering standard
- Up to 845 hp and 2.6-second 0–60 (Cyberbeast)
- Vaulted bed with motorized tonneau cover
- Built-in air compressor, outlets, and accessories
- Native access to Tesla Supercharger network
Weaknesses:
- Unconventional layout takes adjustment
- Limited dealer/service support in rural areas
- Large and heavy — tough to park
Best for: Early adopters, off-grid adventurers, and Tesla fans who want a truck.
Chevrolet Silverado EV
First Editions Arriving Now | Price: $72,905+ | Range: 393 mi (WT), 450+ mi (RST) | Towing: Up to 10,000 lbs
GM’s electric Silverado is a clean-sheet redesign — it shares zero parts with the gas version. This truck rides on the Ultium platform, just like the Hummer EV and Blazer EV, and it brings serious power, range, and technology to the table.
Standout Features:
- 450+ mile range on high trims
- Midgate expands bed into cabin
- Available 4-wheel steering
- 10.2 kW onboard power
- Real usable bed with standard tie-downs
Weaknesses:
- Heavy (over 8,500 lbs curb weight)
- WT (Work Truck) trim lacks luxury
- No Android Auto/CarPlay
Best for: Fleet buyers, cross-country haulers, and Chevy fans.
Ram 1500 REV
Coming 2025 | Price: ~$58,000+ (est.) | Range: 350–500 mi (est.) | Towing: 14,000 lbs (claimed)
RAM is gunning for the top spot in this segment with the upcoming 1500 REV. It promises insane specs on paper: a 500-mile extended battery pack, 14,000-pound towing, and up to 24 inches of water fording.
Standout Features:
- Massive frunk
- 800V architecture with 350 kW fast charging
- Multi-function tailgate
- Smart pass-through storage
Weaknesses:
- Not yet in customer hands
- Pricing not final
- May miss out on federal tax credit
Best for: Those willing to wait for big range and serious utility.
Rivian R1T
Available Now | Price: $69,900–$87,000+ | Range: 270–410 mi | Towing: 11,000 lbs
Rivian’s R1T was the first electric truck to market — and it’s still one of the most capable. It blends truck utility with off-road adventure, and it’s especially popular with outdoorsy buyers who like to camp, climb, or explore.
Standout Features:
- Real off-road suspension
- Quad-motor option: 835 hp, 0–60 in 3.0s
- 3.5-foot gear tunnel
- Camp kitchen and rooftop tent accessories
- Strong OTA update roadmap
Weaknesses:
- Pricey with options
- Charging network still growing
- Bed is small for serious hauling
Best for: Adventure travelers, overlanders, and gear haulers.
GMC Sierra EV Denali
Coming 2025 | Price: ~$74,000+ | Range: 400 mi (est.) | Towing: 9,500–10,000 lbs
GMC’s Sierra EV is mechanically similar to the Silverado EV, but styled and trimmed for luxury truck buyers. It’ll be packed with Denali-specific details and design, with heavy emphasis on interior and comfort.
Standout Features:
- SuperCruise hands-free driving
- Upscale interior and trim
- Power opening frunk
- Giant center touchscreen with split screens
Weaknesses:
- No official EPA numbers yet
- High starting price
- Slightly less range/tow than Silverado
Best for: Buyers who want a premium experience and classic GMC styling.
Comparison Table: Specs That Matter
| Truck | Starting Price | Max Range | Towing Capacity | Charging Speed | Onboard Power | 4WD Std | Tax Credit |
| Ford F-150 Lightning | $54,995 | 320 mi | 10,000 lbs | 155 kW | 9.6 kW | Yes | Yes |
| Tesla Cybertruck | $60,990 | 340 mi | 11,000 lbs | 250+ kW | Yes | Yes | No |
| Chevy Silverado EV | $72,905 | 450+ mi | 10,000 lbs | 350 kW | 10.2 kW | Yes | Yes |
| Ram 1500 REV | ~$58,000 est. | 500 mi | 14,000 lbs | 350 kW | Yes | Yes | TBD |
| Rivian R1T | $69,900 | 410 mi | 11,000 lbs | 220 kW | 1.5 kW | Yes | No |
| GMC Sierra EV | ~$74,000 est. | 400 mi | ~10,000 lbs | 350 kW | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Real-World Range While Towing
Here’s where most buyers get surprised. EV range drops fast when towing, especially at highway speeds.
In real-world tests:
- F-150 Lightning: 320 miles drops to ~150–160 towing 6,000 lbs
- Rivian R1T: 410 miles drops to ~200–220 at 7,000 lbs
- Cybertruck: Early reports show ~170 miles with 8,000 lb trailer
- Silverado EV: No public test yet, but expect ~230–250 miles when towing 8,000+ lbs
The point? If you’re towing regularly, buy the biggest battery pack available — and plan for frequent charging stops.
Charging Speeds and Network Access
Fast charging makes or breaks the EV truck experience. Here’s how they stack up:
- Tesla Cybertruck: Best network by far (Supercharger), up to 250 kW
- Ford Lightning: 155 kW max, decent Electrify America compatibility
- Rivian R1T: 220 kW, expanding Adventure Network
- GM Ultium Trucks: 350 kW, work well on public networks
- Ram 1500 REV: Promises 350 kW with 800V setup
Rule of thumb: Look for 10–80% charging under 35 minutes. Anything slower is tough on road trips.
Daily Life With an EV Truck
- Home Charging: You’ll need a 240V Level 2 charger. Expect 10–12 hours for a full refill.
- Snow + Winter Driving: EVs handle winter well — instant traction, low center of gravity.
- Frunks Are Game-Changers: The added front trunk is perfect for groceries, tools, or keeping valuables locked up.
- Apps and Tech: Rivian and Tesla lead with slick mobile apps, trip planning, and over-the-air updates.
- Maintenance: No oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative brakes that last longer.
Final Verdict: Which Electric Truck Should You Buy?
- Best Work Truck: Ford F-150 Lightning
- Best for Range: Chevy Silverado EV or Ram 1500 REV
- Best for Tech: Tesla Cybertruck
- Best for Off-Road/Adventure: Rivian R1T
- Best for Luxury Buyers: GMC Sierra EV Denali
- Best for Towing: Ram 1500 REV (if claims hold true)
Still unsure? Start with how you’ll use the truck — and check which ones qualify for the full tax credit. It can swing the price by thousands.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q: How much range do EV trucks lose while towing?
Up to 50%. A 320-mile rated truck might only get 150 miles when towing 6,000–8,000 lbs.
Q: Can EV trucks power tools or a house?
Yes. F-150 Lightning and Silverado EV offer 9.6–10.2 kW onboard power systems, enough to run job sites or backup power at home.
Q: Which EV truck has the most range?
As of 2025, the Ram 1500 REV claims up to 500 miles. The Silverado EV offers 450+ miles.
Q: Are EV trucks good in snow?
Yes. Most have AWD, instant torque, and traction control. The heavy battery lowers the center of gravity for great winter handling.
Q: What is the cheapest electric pickup truck?
The Ford F-150 Lightning Pro starts around $55,000 and qualifies for the $7,500 tax credit.
Final Thoughts
Electric trucks are no longer future promises — they’re here, and they’re serious contenders. Some are faster than sports cars. Others out-haul your gas truck. And every one of them is reshaping what a pickup can do.
But this isn’t just about torque or horsepower. It’s about which truck actually works for you. If you tow long distance, look at battery range under load. If you just want a daily driver that can handle weekend jobs and look sharp doing it, look for tech, comfort, and charging ease.
Whatever you need, there’s a 2025 or 2026 electric pickup that can handle it — without a gas pump in sight.
Stay ahead. Stay informed. Keep reading at BidForAutos.com.
