Ford Maverick: Affordable Hybrid Pickup Truck - Under $20,000

Ford Introduces the Maverick Compact Hybrid Pickup

On Tuesday, Ford officially presented the Maverick, a novel compact hybrid pickup truck designed to appeal to a segment of drivers who may not have previously considered owning such a vehicle.

Its reduced dimensions and accessible starting price of $19,995 are specifically targeted towards first-time truck buyers.

These customers desire the versatility associated with SUVs or trucks, alongside the practicality of effortless maneuvering and parking within congested urban environments.

Electrification Strategy

Although not a fully electric truck like the forthcoming Ford F-150 Lightning, the Maverick is integral to Ford’s expanded commitment to electrification.

The company intends to invest $30 billion in electric vehicle technology by the year 2025.

Notably, the Maverick features the first electric motor that was entirely designed, engineered, tested, and produced internally at Ford’s Van Dyke Transmission Plant.

Performance and Capabilities

The combination of the electric motor and a 2.5-liter engine generates 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque.

This powertrain configuration allows for a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

While this may not satisfy those needing to tow substantial trailers, the Maverick’s projected EPA fuel economy of 40 mpg in city driving is expected to attract a significant customer base.

An alternative EcoBoost engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, is also available.

This option delivers 250 horsepower, 277 pound-feet of torque, and increases the towing capacity to 4,000 pounds.

Trim Levels and Drivetrain

The Maverick will be offered with standard front-wheel drive and across three trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat – mirroring the structure of the F-Series lineup.

An all-wheel drive system is available as an upgrade.

Here's a quick overview of key features:

• Base Price: $19,995
• Horsepower (Hybrid): 191 hp
• Torque (Hybrid): 155 lb-ft
• Towing Capacity (Hybrid): 2,000 lbs
• Fuel Economy (City): 40 mpg (targeted)

Ford anticipates strong demand for this uniquely positioned vehicle.

The Maverick represents a new approach to the pickup truck market.

The Maverick: A Truck Bed Designed for Creation

The pickup bed of the Ford Maverick measures 4.5 feet in height and 4 feet in width. This is slightly smaller than the F-150’s 5.5 by 4.3 foot bed, but intentionally so, prioritizing adaptability.

Ford has officially named this adaptable space the “flexbed” to emphasize its versatility. It’s engineered to accommodate a diverse array of tasks and projects.

Designed for the DIY Enthusiast

While the F-150 series focuses on robust power and storage for professional tools, the Maverick is specifically targeted towards drivers who enjoy do-it-yourself projects.

The flexbed incorporates 12 strategically placed anchor points and slots. These allow owners to easily customize and organize the space according to their individual requirements.

Powering Your Projects is made simple with the inclusion of two prewired 12-volt 20-amp sources. Additionally, two 110-volt outlets are provided for powering devices like laptops or supporting recreational activities.

Enhanced Functionality

The Maverick’s tailgate offers multipositional adjustment. This allows drivers to secure it at any angle, optimizing loading and unloading, and effectively extending the bed’s usable length.

The compact size of the bed contributes to its accessibility. Designers ensured that items within the bed are easily reachable, even for individuals representing the fifth percentile in female height.

This focus on ergonomic design enhances usability for a wider range of users.

Exploring the Technology within the Maverick

Modern vehicles are increasingly defined by their connectivity, and the Maverick is no exception. This pickup truck provides a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot capable of supporting up to ten connected devices.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard features, enhancing the driving experience through smartphone compatibility.

Vehicle owners can leverage the FordPass application by connecting their smartphones.

This app facilitates remote vehicle functions, including remote starting, door locking/unlocking, vehicle location tracking, and fuel level monitoring.

Advanced Driver-Assist Systems

The Maverick incorporates the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of technologies, prioritizing driver safety and convenience.

Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking provides alerts via both audible and visual cues, helping to mitigate potential accidents.

Automatic high beam headlamps activate when no oncoming traffic is detected, maximizing visibility.

A blind spot information system warns drivers if a vehicle is present in their blind spot, enhancing lane change safety.

Lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control further contribute to a more relaxed and secure driving experience.

Drive Mode Selection

The vehicle’s technological capabilities extend to its driving dynamics, offering five standard drive modes.

These modes – Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul – allow drivers to optimize performance for various conditions and driving needs.

A Look at the Maverick's Interior

The cabin of the pickup truck incorporates vibrant color highlights to emphasize areas designed for interaction. This is evident in features like the central mat, which includes a charging pad, and the air vents.

Instead of utilizing imitation leather or wood trim, the Maverick distinguishes itself with stone-like textures and a speckled plastic finish.

Ford has included Integrated Tether Slots, providing customers with the flexibility to personalize their interior with various accessories.

These accessories can range from additional cupholders to an iPad mount for rear-seat entertainment.

The fuel tank’s placement behind the passenger area, rather than beneath the bench, significantly increases underseat storage capacity.

This expanded space is substantial enough to accommodate items like ice buckets, as highlighted in Ford’s earlier promotional materials.

A notable design choice in the Maverick is the removal of door armrests and rear door speakers.

This alteration creates more room for larger items, such as popular S’well water bottles.