GM’s plans for a small pickup seem to be on ICE for now, but is that the right move? We wield our digital pen to imagine what a Maverick competitor could resemble
by Josh Byrnes
March 9, 2024 at 12:00
With the new Maverick proving to be a runaway success story for Ford, selling 94,058 units of the compact-sized pickup in 2023 and continuing its momentum in 2024 with 25,705 units shifted, marking an increase of 84.7% over the same period in 2023, one has to wonder why GM hasn’t entered the segment.
Interestingly, GM did explore entering the market, albeit in a different, more electrified direction. However, it seems this plan has been shelved. According to a recent report from Autoweek, General Motors has abandoned a compact electric pickup program that would have competed directly with Ford’s Maverick. This decision isn’t surprising, given the rumors circulating about issues with GM’s Ultium battery platform, softening EV demand, and delays in introducing new products to dealerships.
As a result, GM CEO Mary Barra has indicated the automaker will pivot in its strategy, focusing on plug-in hybrid powertrains in the near term rather than the original plan to transition directly from internal combustion to fully electric propulsion systems.
More: What If GM Made A New Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Sports Wagon For Us?
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Plugged in, but still on ICE
But does this mean GM’s small pickup program is dead in the water? It doesn’t have to be. One glance over to Dearborn and seeing Ford’s outstanding success with the Maverick is enough to tell anyone that they would be mad not to develop a small truck.
A smarter bet would be to develop a platform that is both PHEV and full battery-electric capable – if the demand for EVs were to accelerate again rapidly. Just look at Stallantis and what they’re doing with the highly flexible STLA Large platform for the new Dodge Charger with both EV and Hurricane inline-six options incoming.
We can look to China for what PHEV powertrain might be offered. In that market, the new Chevrolet Equinox uses a 1.5 liter turbocharged four-cylinder combustion engine with 170 hp (127 kW) and a 188 hp (140 kW) electric motor in tandem, alongside a lithium iron phosphate battery pack for electron storage duties.
Diminutively distinctive
Regarding emotional appeal, GM could smash Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz right out of the arena with a design that blends utility with excellent aesthetics. GM Design recently showcased a couple of fantastic sketches of how the EV version could look, and we’ve expanded on that further.
Drawing from its rich heritage of pickup trucks, we have translated Chevrolet’s artwork into a more production-intent proposition. Striking a balance between the conservative Blue Oval and expressive South Korean offerings, the front wears a bold shark-nosed face with a large contrasting grille, low-mount headlamps and thin upper DRLs.
The narrow hood almost looks like a fist-punch with its chamfered edges and hard creases, and the way the front fenders taper down and out harks back to Chevrolet trucks of a bygone era (subtle SSR vibes, anybody?). Smooth haunches, scalloped cladding and a contrasting floating roof, are key highlights, as is the unibody one-piece side stamping. The rear also sports a thin, full-width LED lightbar and integrated corner steps that form part of the contrasting bumper.
Style meets functionality
One intriguing feature proposed by GM Design is a “flip-down mid-gate” setup, providing extended storage space while maintaining the truck’s compact footprint, a great idea if you like that open-air motoring feel.
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Elsewhere inside, it would ideally be a geometrically-influenced affair with straight lines, chamfered edges and soft-touch furnishings in key touch points – think Hummer EV, but on a budget. A multi-tiered dash blends technology with utility (sorry, no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto folks) with a large OLED infotainment display, complimented by open storage trays and vertical ventilation elements.
So, that’s our wishful thinking. Should GM bring a small truck to fruition? We’d love to hear your views in the comments below.
Note: The illustrations in this story are not related to nor endorsed by GM.
