Category: pickup truck

May 16

Kia’s Innovative Electric Pickup Set for 2026 U.S. Launch: A Sneak Peek

Introduction to Kia’s Electric Venture

Kia is poised to make a significant entrance into the American electric vehicle market with a new all-electric pickup truck, aiming to challenge the Honda Ridgeline by 2026. This vehicle, cloaked in heavy camouflage during its test runs in California, hints at a design inspired by the EV9’s aesthetics with the practical features of the Santa Cruz, suggesting a fusion of style and utility. The vehicle was captured on video sporting an eclectic mix of body panel colors and nondescript black wheels, indicating its prototype phase.

Technical Insights and Market Positioning

Projected to share the E-GMP platform with Kia’s acclaimed EV9, this electric pickup is expected to offer advanced automotive technologies including a front coil suspension and an independent rear setup, enhancing its driving dynamics. The prototype’s dimensions suggest it will directly compete with mid-size trucks like the Honda Ridgeline and, potentially, electric models like the Rivian R1T. Kia’s strategy includes diversifying its electric vehicle portfolio, reflecting a broader trend among automakers to leverage shared platforms for new models to optimize development costs and efficiency.

Kia electric mid-size pickup spotted testing in the United States (Source: KindelAuto / YouTube)Kia electric mid-size pickup spotted testing in the United States (Source: KindelAuto / YouTube)

Strategic Moves and Future Prospects

Kia plans to introduce not just this electric pickup but also another model specifically tailored for emerging markets by 2026, highlighting the brand’s ambitious expansion in the electric vehicle sector. While the test vehicle was seen with Michigan plates, its manufacturing location remains undisclosed; however, producing it within the U.S. could offer buyers significant incentives, including a $7,500 tax credit. Kia must navigate manufacturing and import policies wisely, as assembling the truck overseas could lead to missing out on U.S. federal incentives due to existing import tariffs on light trucks.

Beneficial Insights for Potential Buyers and Enthusiasts:

For those keen on transitioning to electric vehicles, especially in the pickup truck category, Kia’s upcoming model promises to blend utility with the environmental benefits of electric propulsion. The use of the E-GMP platform suggests high efficiency and potentially fast charging capabilities, aligning with the needs of truck users who may rely on their vehicle for both work and leisure. Furthermore, potential buyers should stay informed about the development of this vehicle, as its features, price point, and incentives will significantly influence its competitiveness in the burgeoning electric truck market.

Apr 22

BYD Shark Is China’s New Plug-In Hybrid Pickup Truck

The BYD Shark is a plug-in hybrid that may also get a fully electric version at some point.

BYD has confirmed the name of its first plug-in pickup truck that it plans to unveil at the Auto China 2024 expo (the Beijing Motor Show), which starts on Thursday. It will be called the BYD Shark, and at launch, it will be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, with the possibility that a fully electric variant will be announced at some point down the line.

The Shark will be about the same size as the Ford Ranger PHEV, which is also its only direct rival since there isn’t another plug-in pickup in this size class available in China, Europe or Australia where it will be sold. BYD has not announced the specifics of the Shark’s powertrain, but it shares its platform with the front-wheel-drive BYD Seal U SUV, which packs a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that, together with an electric motor, makes 194 horsepower.

BYD doesn’t plan to sell cars stateside but may build them in Mexico.

BYD is the Chinese automaker that overtook Tesla for total EV sales in Q4 2023 and the Shark is its first plug-in pickup truck.

The Seal U PHEV has an 18.3-kilowatt-hour battery pack that provides up to 68 miles of pure electric driving. There are also two fully electric versions of the Seal U, which are already available in China and will also be introduced in Europe, with 71.8 kWh and 87 kWh battery capacities and claimed WLTP ranges of 260 and 310 miles, respectively.

The Seal U’s charging power peaks at 115 kW, and it supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) bidirectional charging. Sharing its platform with the Seal U, the BYD Shark will likely have identical powertrains and very similar specifications.

BYD also teased the look of the Shark pickup, showing its squared-off design and front daytime running lights, which feature a full-width light bar that connects its headlights. This makes it look a bit like the Ford F-150 Lightning, although the lower part of the headlights’ LED signature is quite different in the BYD.

The Chinese automaker previously showed photos of a fully camouflaged Shark, which gave us a pretty good idea of what the final production vehicle would look like. There isn’t anything particularly unique about the way it looks, and it seems to draw upon elements from other existing pickup designs. Inside, it will feature a 15.6-inch infotainment display powered by an eight-core processor.

BYD has not announced plans to enter the US market, but it already sells cars in Mexico, where it is reportedly considering establishing a manufacturing location. The company wants to build a factory with a yearly output of 150,000 cars that could potentially be exported throughout the Americas.

Oct 18

Toyota’s Electric Pickup Truck Testing in Australia: What It Means for the U.S. Market

Toyota’s Electric Pickup Truck Progress

In December, Toyota showcased the Hilux Revo BEV Concept in Thailand, an electric pickup based on the popular Hilux model. Recently, this prototype has traveled to Australia for further testing and feedback from key Hilux fleet customers. According to Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s VP of Sales, the BEV prototype not only resembles the traditional Hilux but also performs impressively like a production-ready model.

U.S. Market Implications and Future Prospects

Toyota’s focus on markets like Australia and Thailand is understandable given the Hilux’s popularity, with impressive sales figures of 64,000 units in Australia and 145,000 in Thailand in 2022. However, its plans for the U.S. remain ambiguous. While electric truck adoption is gradual and faces challenges, such as high costs and limited production, Toyota is preparing to introduce its electric offerings, potentially including a U.S.-bound truck among its 10 new BEVs by 2026. This strategic move aims to address range anxiety and streamline manufacturing, ensuring a well-rounded and affordable electric truck when it finally arrives.

Aug 20

Can You Find a Reliable Used Pickup Truck for $20K?

The Reality of the $20K Used Pickup Market

Once upon a time, finding a dependable used pickup truck for $20,000 was entirely feasible. Today, however, that budget may only land you a high-mileage vehicle, if at all. With used car prices skyrocketing, finding a well-maintained truck for this price is increasingly rare, especially given that the Nissan Frontier is one of the few exceptions still averaging under $25,000.

Rising Prices and Mileage Challenges

The days of affordable used cars are largely gone, with only 12.4% of vehicles now listed for $20,000 or less, down from nearly half pre-pandemic. The increase in vehicle mileage is another concern, with recent data showing that cars aged 1-5 years have roughly 20% more miles than three years ago. This shift is driven by a shortage of new cars, causing many drivers to keep their old ones longer.

Affordable Pickup Truck Options

If you’re set on finding a used pickup truck for $20,000, your choices will be limited and may require compromise. The Nissan Frontier is a standout option in the under-$25,000 range, with 2017 models averaging around $21,671. For a bit more, you might explore midsize trucks like the Honda Ridgeline or Chevrolet Colorado, or full-size options such as the Ram 1500 Classic, though these often come with higher mileage or fewer features at this price point.

Making the Most of Your Budget

Finding a reliable truck under $20,000 will depend on patience and a bit of luck. Midsize trucks are more attainable at this price, while full-size models may be older or require some repair work. If you’re willing to consider trucks with salvage titles or higher mileage, there might be options that fit within your budget, but be prepared for potential maintenance challenges.

Jul 20

Which Pickup Truck Is the Most Efficient for Towing: Gas, Diesel, or Hybrid?

When choosing a pickup truck for towing, fuel efficiency is a crucial factor. While the EPA provides fuel mileage ratings for city and highway driving, many buyers are keen to know how these ratings hold up under the strain of towing. This article compares the towing efficiency of various powertrains—gas V8, turbocharged V6, turbodiesel, and hybrid—across some of the toughest driving conditions.

Comparing Towing Efficiency: Turbocharged V6 vs. V8

In the world of towing, both the turbocharged V6 and the V8 offer competitive fuel efficiency. For instance, the Ford F-150 models equipped with these engines perform similarly in terms of towing capability, but the V8 has a slight edge in maintaining better fuel mileage during heavy loads. During a rigorous test over Colorado’s “Ike’s Gauntlet,” the V8 managed to sustain 4.0 mpg, compared to the V6’s 3.5 mpg, demonstrating its superior efficiency when it comes to handling steep inclines and maintaining control.

Evaluating the PowerBoost Hybrid and Diesel Options

Ford’s PowerBoost Hybrid combines a turbocharged V6 with an electric motor, offering robust torque and towing power. While it delivered 3.8 mpg while towing a 10,000-pound trailer up a challenging mountain pass, its regenerative braking system helped improve overall efficiency on the descent. On the other hand, the GMC Sierra 1500 with the Duramax diesel engine stood out with an impressive 5.9 mpg while towing a 7,000-pound load, showcasing its efficiency and endurance in demanding conditions.

The comparison reveals that while diesel engines excel in towing efficiency, hybrids offer a balanced performance with added benefits like regenerative braking. Each powertrain has its strengths, and the choice depends on specific towing needs and personal preferences.

Jul 11

Is Now the Time to Buy? Midsize Pickup Truck Sales Slump in 2023

Declining Demand for Midsize Trucks

Midsize pickup trucks, offering a blend of utility and maneuverability, are experiencing a surprising dip in sales this year. The Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, Jeep Gladiator, and Ford Ranger—four prominent models in this segment—are all seeing diminished demand. This decline is unexpected, especially given the new Frontier’s debut, which might be suffering from supply chain issues or new model teething problems.

Factors Affecting Sales

The Jeep Gladiator, once a strong contender with rising sales figures, has seen a significant drop of 30% year-over-year in 2023. Despite its earlier successes, it is projected to sell under 55,000 units this year, a stark contrast to its peak performance. Similarly, Ford and Chevrolet are hoping that their new 2024 Ranger and Colorado models will reinvigorate interest, though buyers may be waiting to test these latest offerings.

Exceptions to the Trend

Not all midsize pickups are struggling; the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline are bucking the trend with sales increases. The Ridgeline, despite skepticism about its unibody design, has seen nearly a 40% increase in sales this year. The Tacoma remains a strong performer with a 7.5% sales boost, although the Frontier’s sales have decreased by over 20%.

Insights and Predictions

Interestingly, the Ford Ranger has faced a notable decline, falling almost 30% from the previous year’s figures. This drop contrasts with the increasing sales of the Ford F-150, which has risen by 10%. Meanwhile, smaller models like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick continue to gain traction, with both showing sales growth compared to last year.

As we approach the end of the year, it will be crucial to watch how these trends develop and whether upcoming model updates or market shifts will alter the sales landscape.