As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to revolutionize the automotive industry, electric trucks have become a compelling option for drivers looking for power, performance, and sustainability. If you’re in the market for an electric truck that excels at towing without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover the best electric truck for towing under $50,000, including their towing capacities, range, features, and overall value.
Why Choose an Electric Truck for Towing?
Electric trucks offer several advantages over their gas or diesel counterparts when it comes to towing:
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Instant torque: EVs deliver power immediately, making it easier to tow heavy loads.
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Lower operating costs: Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel.
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Fewer maintenance needs: No oil changes, fewer moving parts, and reduced wear.
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Environmental benefits: No tailpipe emissions means you’re towing cleaner and greener.
Now, let’s look at the best electric truck options under $50K that meet your towing needs.
Top Pick: 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro
Starting Price: $49,995
Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 lbs (Standard-Range Battery)
Range: Estimated 240 miles
Drive: Dual-motor AWD
Why It’s the Best for Towing Under $50K
The Ford F-150 Lightning Pro continues to stand out as the most capable and reliable electric truck under $50,000 for towing purposes. With a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, it can easily handle medium-sized trailers, boats, and equipment. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system ensures strong traction even in off-road or rough conditions.
It also includes Pro Power Onboard, allowing you to power tools and appliances directly from the truck — a huge plus for contractors and adventurers alike.
Key Features:
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Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
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Over-the-air software updates
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Built-in navigation and towing assistance
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High-strength steel frame
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Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assistance suite
Other Notable Mentions
While the F-150 Lightning Pro is our top pick, there are a few other electric trucks that are competitive but may require incentives or used market shopping to fall under $50K.
1. Chevrolet Silverado EV WT (Work Truck)
Starting Price: Around $52,000 (Look for local/state EV incentives)
Towing Capacity: Up to 8,000 lbs
Range: Estimated 250–300 miles
The Chevy Silverado EV WT offers an impressive towing capacity and range, although the base model might exceed the $50K mark slightly. With federal and state rebates, you may be able to bring it down under $50,000 effectively.
2. Rivian R1T (Used Market)
Used Price: Around $48,000 – $50,000 for older trims
Towing Capacity: Up to 11,000 lbs
Range: 260–300 miles
Rivian R1T is a powerhouse with exceptional towing capacity, but the new models are priced much higher. However, you can find used 2022–2023 Rivian R1T models in the used market under $50K depending on mileage and condition.
Things to Consider Before Buying
1. Towing Capacity vs. Payload
Make sure to differentiate between towing capacity and payload capacity. Towing is how much weight your truck can pull behind it, while payload is the weight it can carry in the bed and cab.
2. Real-World Range When Towing
Electric trucks tend to lose range when towing — often by 30–50%, depending on the load and terrain. Always opt for a truck with a higher range buffer than what your daily driving or towing demands.
3. Charging Infrastructure
Make sure there’s a reliable charging network along your regular towing routes. Fast chargers (DC Fast Charging) are preferable if you plan to tow over long distances.
4. Available Incentives
Federal tax credits and state/local incentives can significantly reduce the purchase price, potentially bringing a $52K truck down below the $50K budget.
Best Electric Truck for Towing Under $50K: Summary Table
| Truck Model | Starting Price | Towing Capacity | Range | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford F-150 Lightning Pro | $49,995 | 7,700 lbs | 240 miles | AWD |
| Chevrolet Silverado EV WT | ~$52,000* | 8,000 lbs | 250–300 mi | AWD |
| Rivian R1T (Used) | ~$48,000–$50K | 11,000 lbs | 260–300 mi | AWD |
*May qualify for federal/state incentives to reduce effective price.
FAQs About Electric Trucks for Towing
1. Can electric trucks tow as much as gas or diesel trucks?
Yes, in many cases, electric trucks can tow just as much or more than traditional gas or diesel trucks due to their high torque and dual-motor setups.
2. Does towing reduce the range of electric trucks?
Yes. Towing significantly impacts range — often reducing it by 30–50% depending on the weight, terrain, and speed. Always plan for more frequent charging if you’re towing regularly.
3. Are there affordable EV trucks with decent towing power?
Absolutely. The Ford F-150 Lightning Pro is a great example, offering strong towing power for under $50K, especially if you qualify for tax credits or fleet pricing.
4. Is it safe to tow long distances with an electric truck?
Yes, electric trucks are safe and stable when towing long distances, but it’s crucial to map out charging stations and account for the reduced range during towing.
5. Which electric truck offers the best value for towing?
The Ford F-150 Lightning Pro stands out due to its balanced combination of price, performance, range, and technology — making it the best value in the under $50K category.
Final Verdict
If you’re shopping for an electric truck that can tow efficiently without blowing your budget, the 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro is your top contender. It provides excellent towing capacity, modern tech, solid range, and most importantly, comes in at just under $50,000. With the rise of EV incentives and a growing used market, there are more options than ever before to find a capable electric truck for less.
As the electric truck market continues to evolve, keep an eye on upcoming models, updated pricing, and EV tax incentives that could further stretch your budget.
Disclaimer: Prices and availability are accurate as of June 2025 and may vary by region or dealer.
