2020 Ford Raptor Hybrid: The Way To Pickup Truck Electrification (Op/Ed)

2017 ford raptor design sketch
2017 Ford Raptor design sketch (photo credit: Ford)

What’s next for the Ford Raptor off-road pickup truck? The 2nd-generation truck went on sale this year, and it is a highly advanced and luxurious off-road machine. It’s also the quickest 0-60 MPH truck that we have ever tested. The truck is a test-bed for latest performance technologies, as evidenced by its high-output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with a rating of 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque.

The Raptor will be due for mid-cycle refresh for the 2020 model year. Adding a high-performance gas/electric hybrid powertrain could be just the ticket to keep the Raptor at the top of its game. Ford announced the intent to produce a hybrid Ford F-150 by 2020. Here is the Ford electrified vehicles press release from January 2017 that outline the plan for a hybrid Ford F-150 and other vehicles by 2020.

Ford Raptor Hybrid: Pros

The additional power and torque of a hybrid system could make the Raptor quicker than ever. The extra torque is always good for low-speed off-roading. It could offer a limited driving range on electric power alone. Ford says a hybrid F-150 could serve as a mobile generator. This would be very cool for your next off-road adventure/camping trip.

Ford Raptor Hybrid: Cons

Undoubtedly, the hybrid system will add cost to an already expensive truck. It will also add weight to a truck that is already challenged in the payload and tow rating department.

Ford would have to enhance Raptor’s off-road suspension to improve or simply maintain Raptor’s payload and towing capability. What about the high price? The initial price and dealership markups of the 2017 Raptor have not stifled the sales of the iconic off-road truck. My bet is that a Raptor Hybrid will be welcomed by the customers, and it could kick-start the general consumer acceptance of gas/electric hybrid pickup trucks.