Pickup Trucks Still Dominate the U.S. Automotive Market Despite Tesla's Massive Electric Car Sales

A few years from now, vehicles running on gasoline will be banished from the new car market. Fuel-powered cars have dominated the roads for many years. However, it will be replaced soon by models with fully electric engines.

Manufacturers have to change or upgrade some of their factories. More money is being invested in modernizing the facilities of vehicle manufacturers in order to fully transition to making new electric cars. Tesla is one of the well-known brands that offer EVs and fully embrace the modernity of the automotive industry. But despite the massive sales, it seems that their electric cars cannot beat pickup trucks.

Tesla enters the top 10

According to the data and analytics firm Motor Intelligence, the Tesla Model Y crossover was the sixth bestselling vehicle in America in 2022. It has beaten the Honda CR-V crossover, GMC Sierra pickup, and other longstanding best-sellers.

Tesla was reported to have delivered about 1.25 million Model 3 vehicles and Model Y globally in 2022. The data has been estimated since the company did not show its regional or individual vehicle sales report. Motor Intelligence pointed out that Tesla’s Model 3 got the 13th spot because it sold 211,641 units.

Michelle Krebs, the executive analyst for Cox Automotive said in a CNBC report that it is no surprise that Tesla ranks high. Krebs explained that Tesla dominates the EV market and the luxury market, though there were some controversies and news about the company. The company got a lot of that strength from the Model Y, she added.

Cybertruck still missing in action

Tesla has created an unconventional vehicle they plan to enter the truck market—the Cybertruck. However, even though it managed to create hype when it was released in 2019, it is still missing in action.

Tesla pushed back the production of its electric truck a few times. The company has released an announcement that it will push through the 2023 target to commence the initial production. In May 2022, Tesla stopped taking Cybertruck orders outside North America.

Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, claimed that the company got more orders than it could fulfill for the years after the start of its production. A lot of reservation holders have to wait longer than expected before the deliveries start. Cybertruck’s manufacturing process is said to officially start at the end of 2023. Those excited to get their hands on the Cybertruck should keep their fingers crossed so it won’t get delayed again.

Pickup trucks remain top-selling

The coronavirus era has shaken up the automotive industry. A lot of popular models are among them. Even though Tesla broke into the top ten list for the first time, pickup trucks remained America’s top-selling vehicle.

Despite posting the lowest sales since 2012, Ford’s F-Series is still the top-selling vehicle in the country for the 41st year. It is also America’s best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years. In the second spot, Chevrolet Silverado and Ram trucks often go neck and neck. But Silverado regained its longstanding second-place spot after surpassing the sales of Ram pickups in 2021.

The manufacturing of truck parts has been affected by supply chain problems due to the onset of the Covid pandemic. Many automakers went through sporadic plant shutdowns at various times, which led to a change in sales rankings for the past couple of years.

Analysts have seen so much fluctuation in inventory and sales. According to the Cox automotive executive, 2022 started with a high demand for vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. However, things shifted by the end of the year, softening the demand a bit while inventory was rising.

Pickup trucks are America’s favorite

Competition is at an all-time high for pickup trucks in the United States. Trucks are extremely popular in rural states as they are reliable rigs for commercial purposes. They used to be good farm or work companions. They are also great for hauling an oversized load or a tow vehicle for a trailer. Additionally, trucks are a nice vehicle for personal use, especially if you plan to explore a campsite or want to transport furniture and other items.

These days, compact unibody pickup trucks have been gaining attention from young buyers and consumers living in urban areas. They do not have a lot of towing capacity and only have shorter beds. However, they come with some impressive features. The Ford Maverick comes with a hybrid variant and other engine options. Few engine options are available for Hyundai Santa Cruz, but the standard all-wheel drive with a 2.5-liter turbo-4 engine is the popular choice.

Stephanie Brinley, the senior analyst of IHS Markit said that if you own a pickup, you’re the type of person who can get things done. Pickup trucks show the ability to do it yourself, which is a uniquely American perspective. They demonstrate an independent and powerful image compared to other vehicles. Driving a truck makes you seem unafraid to get into the mix to do gritty and tough jobs.

The United States can be considered a Pickup Nation. For trucks with dually wheels, Ram 3500 is one of the top-selling. Ford F-series, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ram 1500 are three of the best-selling full-size pickups.

Versatility wins

Versatility pushes a lot of consumers into pickup trucks. They were once only known as workhorse vehicles used for many tough jobs. But as many years progressed, trucks in America have been improved with a combination of technical improvements and style.

Tyson Jominy, the vice president of J.D. Power’s data and analytics said that amenities and interior space of pickup trucks are highly attractive to consumers. Buyers view trucks not just as work vehicles, but as comfortable transport. Trucks have become more spacious and comfortable with better legroom than a sedan. The measurement of modern pickup trucks has become larger over the years, so consumers won’t feel claustrophobic inside the cab.

Pickup trucks are one of the vehicles that often go under modifications. Aside from adding personal touches to boost the looks, trucks can be customized based on preference for aesthetics or performance.

A lot of owners are fond of improving the looks or performance of their trucks. Some individuals put on new tires, change the stock rims using aftermarket brands like Ion wheels, and installation of other interior mods. Some people do more extreme mods, such as s installing lift kits, grille guards, and more.

Trucks continue to dominate

Tesla has successfully made a mark for its electric cars. However, the company has to work harder to climb higher to the top spot of the American automotive market. Without the Cybertruck, they cannot enter truck domination.

Pickup trucks have been deeply ingrained in the life and culture of many Americans. A lot of people view them as American icons. From a humble workhorse of generations born on the farm, pickup trucks have turned into tech-driven yet comfortable vehicles these days. are great for both personal and commercial purposes, making them an extremely strong contender in the auto market in the United States.