New Research Disproves the 'Pavement Princess' Stereotype Regarding EV Truck Owners | Carscoops

      Contrary to popular belief, EV truck owners utilize their vehicles in much the same manner as those who own internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks.

      22 hours ago

      by Stephen Rivers

      APT truck owners engage in off-roading and hauling at rates comparable to those of gas trucks, with only their towing habits differing slightly due to the limitations of current EV range. The stereotype that EV truck owners are urban adventurers is unfounded.

      We've all heard the stereotype: electric truck owners are tech-savvy individuals enjoying leisurely drives in Rivian R1Ts or Tesla Cybertrucks, looking the part of adventurers rather than actually being adventurous. This image conjures up thoughts of pristine trucks with unblemished tires, devoid of any mud. It’s true that many truck owners do not use their vehicles for their intended purposes.

      However, that’s a well-trodden topic we’ve explored before. Today, we delve into another aspect revealed by data. It turns out that it’s not only the traditional truck enthusiasts who are off-roading and hauling; EV truck owners exhibit behaviors remarkably similar to those of their petrol-powered peers.

      Additionally, more people are purchasing pickup trucks, but few are using them to their full potential.

      Carscoops acquired data from Strategic Vision, a firm that surveys around 250,000 individuals every year about their vehicle usage. This information clearly illustrates where truck owners take their vehicles, how they use them, and how their size and powertrain influence these patterns.

      Who’s Actually Getting Dirty?

      For instance, about one in three truck owners indulges in off-roading as a hobby. Approximately 31 percent of alternative powertrain (ATP) truck owners report engaging in light off-roading, such as driving on gravel or dirt roads, at least once a month.

      This is almost on par with the 29 percent of traditional truck owners (like Toyota Tacoma owners) who do the same. When it comes to full-size truck owners, 32 percent partake in off-roading once a month or more.

      Off-Roading Activity by Truck Type

      Even when faced with challenging terrain, the data remains largely unchanged. About 11 percent of ATP truck owners tackle serious off-road environments, such as rocks, mud, and streams, at least monthly. In comparison, 13 percent of standard truck owners and 15 percent of full-size truck owners report similar activities.

      In other words, electric truck owners are not overly protective of their vehicles; they are using them for weekend adventures just as frequently as those with ICE-powered trucks. Notably, heavy-duty truck owners show distinct patterns that set them apart from other types. These owners are notably more inclined to engage in both forms of off-roading mentioned.

      Truck Bed Utility and Driving Behavior

      Hauling Habits

      On the topic of hauling, we find further evidence that EV truck owners are not driving as though they are in a crossover or a car. The data indicates that 64 percent of them use their truck bed for hauling purposes at least once a month.

      Interestingly, they do this more frequently than standard truck owners at 58 percent and full-size pickup owners at 61 percent, although still less frequently than heavy-duty truck owners, who lead at 74 percent.

      Furthermore, driving for pleasure is common across all three main categories, with 89 to 90 percent of owners reporting that they do so regularly, while heavy-duty truck owners slightly trail at 82 percent.

      It is clear that APT truck owners tow less often than those with combustion engines, which is understandable given the significant challenges related to towing range, charging infrastructure, and charging speed. Nevertheless, in terms of everyday utility, APT pickup drivers are actively using their trucks.

      Electric, But Every Bit a Truck

      This data challenges one of the most enduring cultural divides in the pickup landscape. For years, EV truck buyers have been depicted as outsiders—new entrants who appreciate the aesthetic and lifestyle associated with trucks but shy away from the messiness that comes with it. The numbers tell a different story.

      Whether it’s a Ford Lightning transporting mulch, a Rivian R1T navigating forest service roads, or a Cybertruck owner heading for a campsite, electric truck drivers are demonstrating that capabilities are not limited by the engine type but are defined by how the truck is utilized.

      Therefore, while stereotypes may still persist in online discussions, the evidence is unequivocal: EV truck owners are not substituting trucks for toys. Instead, they are reinterpreting what it means to be a truck owner.

      Truck Owner Usage Summary