After being rebuffed by Rivian which opted to partner with Ford, it looks like GM is now trying to control the message, announcing it will bring an electric pickup to market.
https://www.gminsidenews.com/articles/gm-ceo-confirms-electric-pickup-clams-timeline/
Confirming rumblings that General Motors has an EV truck in the works, the company’s CEO said in an earnings call Tuesday that the automaker will indeed offer such a vehicle.
Barra said GM is capable of building “industry-leading” trucks and EVs, and “will not cede our leadership on either front. We intend to create an all-electric future that includes a complete range of EVs, including full-size pickups.” Details were not forthcoming, with the CEO claiming her company will issue more information “when competitively appropriate.”
Whenever GM’s EV truck appears, don’t expect to see it offered in an el-cheapo base trim. In January, GMC brand boss Duncan Aldred hinted that an EV pickup would be a good fit for The General’s upscale truck division.
Until Ford and GM reveal their electric offerings, the only choice for buyers hunting a fuel-sipping electrified truck (mild-hybrid Ram 1500 aside) will be the
2020 Ford F-150 hybrid — though upstart Rivian hopes to get its R1T pickup into production for 2021.
Rivian plays a role in Barra’s announcement. After reported talks between Rivian and GM broke down earlier this year, Ford surprised everyone by
partnering with the Michigan-based company,
investing $500 million and announcing the development of a new vehicle based on Rivian’s “skateboard” EV architecture.
Ford has since stated it hasn’t changed its electric F-150 plans, leading many to assume the jointly developed EV will be a large SUV.
