As fully electric pickup trucks face hurdles in the U.S. market, automakers are increasingly turning to Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) to bridge the gap between traditional combustion engines and pure electric power.
Challenges in the EV Pickup Market
Despite the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), fully electric pickup trucks have struggled to gain widespread acceptance in the U.S. market. Factors such as higher costs compared to gasoline-powered models and concerns over towing and hauling capabilities have made consumers hesitant to make the switch. For instance, Ford’s F-150 Lightning, while experiencing growth in sales, still represents a small fraction of the overall F-Series lineup. In response to these challenges, Ford has paused production of the F-150 Lightning and is investing more in hybrid vehicles.
The Rise of EREVs
To address consumer concerns and enhance the appeal of electric pickups, automakers are introducing Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs). These vehicles combine an electric powertrain with a traditional internal combustion engine that functions solely as an onboard generator to recharge the battery, ensuring that the wheels are driven exclusively by electric power. This design allows owners to charge the battery directly and provides a backup power source when charging infrastructure is unavailable.
Automakers Embrace EREV Technology
Several major automakers have announced plans to incorporate EREV technology into their vehicle lineups:
- Stellantis: The company is preparing to launch the Ram 1500 Ramcharger, an EREV pickup truck that promises a range of approximately 690 miles.
- Scout Motors: Backed by Volkswagen, Scout Motors plans to introduce the Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck in both pure EV and EREV versions. Notably, about 80% of early reservations have been for the EREV variants, indicating strong consumer interest.
- Ford: The automaker is developing EREV versions of its SUVs, crossovers, and the Super Duty pickup, with expected availability in 2027. Ford anticipates that these models will play a crucial role in making its EV business profitable.
Advantages of EREVs
EREVs offer several benefits that make them appealing to both consumers and automakers:
- Extended Range: The combination of a large battery and an onboard generator significantly increases the vehicle’s range, alleviating concerns about running out of charge during long trips.
- Flexibility: Owners can charge the battery directly when convenient and rely on the onboard generator when charging stations are inaccessible, providing greater flexibility in various driving conditions.
- Reduced Emissions: While not entirely emission-free, EREVs produce fewer emissions than traditional combustion engines, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Market Outlook
EREVs have already gained traction in China, with approximately 623,000 units sold in 2024. As automakers like Stellantis, Scout Motors, and Ford prepare to introduce EREV models in the U.S., this technology is poised to become a significant player in the American automotive landscape. By addressing key consumer concerns and offering a practical bridge between gasoline and electric power, EREVs may accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in segments where fully electric options have struggled to gain a foothold.
