Diesel Pickups, SUVs Gaining Share

Sales of diesel engine options in full-size and commercial pickup trucks as well as SUVs have increased so far in 2020, according to the most recent quarterly sales data and analysis by Diesel Technology Forum (DTF).

Second quarter sales data shows diesels in full-size trucks and SUV were up from 0.6% in 2019 to 1.0% of total sales so far in 2020, while in the commercial diesel model segment (Class 2 and 3 vehicles) sales are up to 3.4% YTD 2020 from 2.2% in 2019.

Meanwhile, plug-in, full battery electric, and fuel cell vehicles, which trailed the overall market, while diesels and hybrids performed better than the overall market, according to sales data and analysis are supplied to DTF by Alan Baum, Baum & Associates.

Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 have reduced overall sales, which in June were down over 25% from a year ago, with sales down just under 25% year-to-date.  For June and year-to-date,

DTF points to the popularity of the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel and the Chevy Silverado 1500 Duramax diesel models and cites new models coming later this year. In the compact pickup category, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator will be available with a 3.0L EcoDiesel option.

In the SUV segment, new diesel options for the 2021 model year include Chevrolet Suburban and Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade. The 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel that powers the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will be available for GM’s SUVs.

There are nearly 50 diesel-powered choices available in the U.S. in 2020, ranging from light- and heavy-duty pickup trucks and vans to sport utility vehicles. More details on alternative-power vehicle sales in the United States are available at DTF’s U.S. Vehicle Sales Dashboard.