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A New Truck Chapter
Hyundai’s venture into the U.S. pickup segment with the Santa Cruz hasn’t been entirely fruitful, but the company isn’t giving up on trucks. A new body-on-frame midsize pickup is in the works and will rival models such as the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. Details remain scarce, but the brand's upcoming Australian truck could offer a possible preview.
According to Carsales, Hyundai’s dual-cab pickup – or ute, as it is called in Australia – could use either a plug-in hybrid or range-extender powertrain. Hyundai Australia COO Gavin Donaldson acknowledged that the automaker would be “late to the party,” but said it still aims to make a grand entrance, with the right powertrain playing a key role.
Torque Is Only Half the Story
Given that Hyundai’s targets, the Ford Ranger and BYD Shark 6, are both available with plug-in hybrid powertrains in Australia, this setup could be ideal for its pickup. An electric motor would provide instant torque, which could help when towing a trailer from a stop. However, the high-voltage battery and electric motor would add weight, potentially affecting payload and towing capacity. That's a similar case with an EREV powertrain, except its wheels would be driven exclusively by electric motors. These compromises help explain why Toyota remains cautious about launching a plug-in hybrid HiLux.
Beyond its mechanical benefits, an electrified truck could help Hyundai comply with Australia’s tightening New Vehicle Efficiency Standard.
To make the project happen, Hyundai is considering working with General Motors or using the ladder-frame architecture underpinning the Kia Tasman. However, industry sources reportedly believe GM is the frontrunner. Despite arriving late to the segment, the Korean marque sees strong regional demand for pickups. As Donaldson explained, “There’s no doubt the recognition of the ute market, not just inside Australia but inside the Asia Pacific corridor, is very high up on HMC’s ranking. Very high up.”
Hyundai’s Truck Plan Takes Shape
The report states that the new Hyundai pickup could arrive by late 2027, with the regional pickup market considered a strategic priority.
Although it is unlikely to be the same model headed to the U.S., it could provide more context for Hyundai’s still-developing pickup strategy. Reports say the brand's U.S.-bound midsize truck will draw inspiration from the Boulder concept and will be built in-house in America.
