Trucks are the most popular type of vehicle purchased in the US. They capture so much of the market that the Ford F-150 has been the top-selling vehicle for decades. However, with climate change at the forefront of many people’s minds and the EV market ready to grow, electric trucks will be coming to a dealership near you in no time!
So how do you know which type of power—diesel, gas, or electric—makes for the best truck for you? Though that’s a question up for debate, since electric trucks aren’t quite a reality just yet, this article will give you some insights before they finally hit the showroom.
Are Diesel Trucks Better than Gas Ones?
Yes and no. Diesel trucks offer increased range, towing, torque, payload, and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) capacities. However, they’re still heavier, cost more to maintain, and release more greenhouse gasses as compared to their gasoline counterparts. On the other hand, gas trucks produce less particulate matter into the ozone. Unfortunately, gas trucks can’t compete with a diesel vehicle’s performance capabilities.
So what’s the better option? It depends on what you’re going to use your pickup truck for. Do you need to tow 35,000 lbs? Buy a diesel truck. Are you just an adventurous driver? Go with a gas truck.
Are Electric Trucks Better than Diesel or Gas Trucks?
Unfortunately, this question can’t be answered just yet. While we can offer some advice, electric trucks aren’t available to test just yet. Until they’re on the market and in the hands of drivers, we don’t know how they’ll perform against other trucks.
Will Electric Trucks Replace Diesel or Gas Trucks?
Since car manufacturers and users are both going green, electric vehicles may replace their diesel and gas counterparts in the near future. Without a drastic government measure, it would take some time.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Diesel, Gas, and Electric Trucks?
Everything has a trade-off. Continue reading for the pros and cons of gas, diesel, and electric trucks.
Gas
Pro:
- Cheaper to fill up, maintain, and find parts
- Good torque
- Great power
Con:
- Decreased payload torque
- Low GVWR, and towing capabilities
Diesel
Pro:
- Good range
- Excellent torque
- Top-rated GVWR and towing capabilities
- Great payload
Con:
- Spews harmful emissions
- Requires additional fluids
- Heavy
Electric
Pro:
- Consistent torque
- Better for the environment
Con:
- Unknown range for the foreseeable future