Electric pickups are arriving, spearheaded by the new Ford F-150 Lightning and GMC Hummer EV. This post will examine how these revolutionary electric trucks blend rugged capability with cutting-edge technology to preview the future of EVs.
Introduction
Electric vehicles are diversifying beyond just cars and SUVs – capable electric pickup trucks are coming to market from major automakers. These e-pickups allow buyers to enjoy benefits like instant torque and quiet operation while retaining hauled-hauling prowess and off-road talent.
The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning and 2023 GMC Hummer EV lead the way in reimagining pickups for the electric era. While different in size and personality, both deliver innovative features and performance that dispel myths about limitations of battery-powered trucks. This review will highlight the key attributes and advances offered by the F-150 Lightning and Hummer EV that should excite any pickup fan.
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning: The People’s Electric Truck
The F-150 Lightning slots right into Ford’s best-selling lineup as the EV version of America’s top-selling pickup for decades. With up to 563 horsepower in the top Platinum trim, the Lightning delivers sports car-like thrust while towing up to 10,000 pounds.
Key F-150 Lightning attributes:
- Mega Power Frunk – Massive front trunk provides durable, drainable storage
- Home Integration – Can power a house for up to 3 days during an outage
- Over-the-air updates – Allows for software improvements from the cloud
- BlueCruise – Enables true hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways
The Lightning brings Ford’s truck legacy into the electric age while enhancing capabilities. Its attractive starting price opens the EV truck market to mainstream buyers.
2023 GMC Hummer EV: Maximum Electrified Excess
In a total departure from its gas-guzzling military truck roots, the reborn Hummer EV exemplifies a no-compromise approach to EV truck engineering. Starting around $110,000, the Edition 1 model flaunts performance befitting its price.
Notable Hummer EV features:
- Watts to Freedom – Accelerates 0-60 mph in just 3 seconds using maximum power
- CrabWalk – Drives diagonally using rear wheel steering
- Extract Mode – Lifts 6 inches for extreme off-road clearance
- Infinity Roof – Transparent roof panels provide an open-air feeling
With outrageous acceleration, removable roof, and tailgate, the Hummer EV pushes the limits of electric truck capabilities.
Shared Strengths
Despite their differing personalities, the Lightning and Hummer EV share some key advantages over gas-powered trucks:
- Instant high torque – Full torque available instantly for smooth powerful acceleration
- Quiet, calm ride – Smooth, silent electric motors replace loud engines
- Advanced technology – Large driver information screens with cutting-edge interfaces
- Emissions-free – Help improve local air quality by eliminating tailpipe emissions
Both trucks dispel myths about EVs lacking brawn or towing skills compared to diesel and gas counterparts.
Conclusion
The F-150 Lightning and GMC Hummer EV usher in a new, electrified era for American pickup trucks. Blending workhorse capabilities with the perks of electric drivetrains, both trucks showcase why EV pickups are ready for primetime. As charging infrastructure expands across truck-focused regions, electric models from Ford, GMC, Rivian and eventually other brands will redefine expectations surrounding the pickup category. The future for work and play looks increasingly electric.
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