Change of Course for Electric Pickups
For years, General Motors has claimed that electric pickups are the next great American migration. However, it now seems the convoy has missed its turn, as reports claim GM has indefinitely suspended development of its next generation of full-size electric trucks.
Plans for 2028 Canceled
Reportedly, the company was developing updated and cheaper successors for the electric Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Cadillac Escalade IQ, and the GMC Hummer EV lineup, with production previously planned for 2028. However, suppliers have been informed that the program is on hold, with no new timelines offered. Industry observers now do not expect new full-size electric pickups from GM until 2030, and they may appear much later.
We have not disclosed any potential plans or timelines for any next-generation electric trucks and will not engage in speculation
Current Models Continue
This does not mean GM’s current electric pickups are dead. Existing models will continue to roll out of the underutilized Factory Zero plant in Detroit-Hamtramck, and experts believe the Escalade IQ is important enough to Cadillac’s plans to keep it in production. However, it indicates that GM wants to spend more time and money on researching and developing products that customers are currently buying in greater numbers. Those that run on gasoline.
Shift Towards Traditional Technologies
The company is reportedly redirecting resources to its future T1-2 internal combustion engine truck platform, which is expected to power future full-size pickups and SUVs. The Orion Assembly plant, once intended for electric trucks and now thriving after switching to ICE versions, is reportedly being prepared for future gasoline models.
Hybrids and Range-Extender Vehicles
Sources also claim that plug-in hybrid versions of the Silverado and Sierra are being considered, while GM has discussed range-extender vehicle technology with suppliers. Competitors are already pursuing this idea. Ram is expected to be the first to launch a range-extender pickup, while Ford has hinted at similar plans after backing away from the idea of updating the fully electric F-150 Lightning.
Changing Regulatory Landscape
None of this is happening in a vacuum. Electric vehicle tax credits have been cut, emission rules softened, and demand for expensive electric pickups has not ignited sales charts. Large batteries and six-figure price tags remain a hard sell for many truck buyers.
GM still claims that the long-term goal is electrification, and that is likely true. But for now, Detroit’s most profitable vehicles are trucks, and trucks and their buyers cannot kick the gasoline habit. This move reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry, where manufacturers are forced to balance long-term environmental goals with short-term market realities and profitability. The success of electric pickups seems to depend not only on technology but also on economic affordability and infrastructure, which is developing more slowly than expected.