Detroit truck heavyweights RAM and Ford are dropping EV full-size pickups for a kind of hybrid called an extended-range EV. They are joined by the upcoming Volkswagen-backed Scout Motors, and Hyundai plans to make them, too. Despite the name, an EREV is really a type of hybrid but gets far more battery range than a typical plug-in.
The statement is accurate and reflects a real trend in the automotive industry as of early 2026. Major manufacturers are shifting away from (or supplementing) pure battery-electric full-size pickups toward **extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs)**—also called range-extended EVs. These are essentially series hybrids: the vehicle drives purely on electric motors powered by a battery, but a gasoline engine acts solely as a generator to recharge the battery when needed, rather than directly driving the wheels. This setup provides EV-like driving (quiet, instant torque, plug-in capability) while eliminating "range anxiety" for heavy-duty use like towing or long hauls, where pure EVs often see significant range drops. Here's a breakdown of the key players mentioned, based on current developments: - **RAM (Stellantis)**: The Ram 1500 REV (previously known as the Ramcharger) is a full-size pickup that's a true EREV. It features a battery for ~145 miles of all-electric range, plus a 3.6L V6 engine as a generator, delivering up to ~690 miles total range (battery + full gas tank). It boasts class-leading stats like up to 14,000 lbs towing and strong performance (around 650+ hp combined). Production is slated for the second half of 2026 as a 2027 model. RAM canceled its pure full-size EV plans in favor of this approach. - **Ford**: Ford has discontinued the all-electric F-150 Lightning (pure BEV) and is pivoting the next-generation F-150 Lightning to an EREV configuration. It promises electric torque and capability with an estimated 700+ miles total range via an onboard gas-powered generator. This addresses customer demands for a better range and towing without frequent charging stops. Deliveries are expected starting around 2026–2027, aligning with broader shifts toward hybrids and EREVs for larger trucks. - **Scout Motors (Volkswagen Group)**: The upcoming Scout Terra (pickup) and Traveler (SUV) offer both pure EV and EREV options. The EREV "Harvester" version uses a gas engine as a generator for over 500 miles total range (with ~150 miles electric-only from a smaller battery). Demand is strong—over 80% of reservations are for the EREV variant—showing buyer preference for the extended range. Production is targeted for 2027 in South Carolina, with EREV models likely launching first or being prioritized. - **Hyundai**: Hyundai plans to introduce EREVs starting in 2027, focusing on larger vehicles like SUVs and pickups. They promise EV-like performance with over 600 miles (about 960 km) total range through optimized battery-engine integration. This includes a mid-size pickup (potentially body-on-frame) in markets like North America and Australia, though details are still emerging. It's part of a broader push into EREVs for heavy-duty applications. This pivot stems from practical challenges with pure EVs in the full-size truck segment: towing/hauling can halve range, charging infrastructure lags for heavy use, and many buyers prioritize no-compromise capability over zero emissions. EREVs bridge the gap, often delivering better real-world usability while still offering plug-in electric driving for shorter trips. Other brands (e.g., potentially GM or others) may follow suit, as EREVs have gained massive popularity in markets like China. Overall, 2026–2028 looks set to bring a wave of these "no-range-anxiety" electrified trucks.