General Motors has shown a heavy-duty electric truck with a military flavour. Electrek reports that GM took the wraps off an electric-drive pickup built on a one-ton chassis with a dually rear axle, which the site describes as the truck commercial fleets have been waiting for. The catch is that the colour choices are very limited, since it can be had in any colour as long as it is Army green.
The photograph used with the Electrek article comes from GM Defense's presence at the AUSA exhibition, which suggests that this vehicle is aimed at defence customers, not the general public. I have only seen the summary, so I do not know the power output, battery size, range or whether a civilian version is planned, and readers should not assume that the truck will be available at dealerships.
Electric drive in heavy-duty trucks is attractive to militaries for several reasons. Electric motors can deliver strong torque, run quietly, reduce the heat signature and provide exportable power to run equipment in the field. At the same time, charging and battery logistics are challenges in remote environments. GM Defense has been developing a range of military vehicles, including concepts for autonomous ground vehicles.
The story also links to the broader debate about electric work trucks. Commercial customers want vehicles that can tow and carry heavy loads while keeping running costs low, but battery weight and range under load are concerns. Ford has said it will launch a cheaper electric pickup, and utilities are exploring using electric trucks as backup power for the grid. Watch for any announcement of a commercial version, specifications and orders from government customers.
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