So, you have decided to take the plunge and get an electric pickup truck. From the Ford Lighting to the high-end Rivian to the futuristic Tesla Cybertruck, there is a lot to choose from. But if you want an upscale electric pickup that offers a more traditional truck experience, the choice becomes clearer - the 2026 GMC Sierra EV.
Out since 2024, the Sierra EV is an electric pickup that comes standard with a dual-motor four-wheel-drive powertrain. It comes configured as a crew-cab pickup with a bed measuring 5 feet, 11 inches in length. At first glance, it looks like any other GMC Sierra, but the smooth and aero-efficient bodywork and extensive LED lighting make the Sierra EV stand apart.
Prior to this year, the Sierra EV was only available in the range-topping Denali trim. For 2026, GMC has added two more trim levels - the base Elevation and the midlevel off-road focused AT4.
The Sierra Elevation enters the lineup as the base model, but it is anything but. It packs a huge 16.8-inch infotainment screen along with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, digital key and a 400-watt inverter with 120-volt bed outlet. Also new is the AT4, which fits the Sierra EV with all-terrain tires, a 2-inch lift and more gadgets like a heads-up display and SuperCruise. The Denali continues as the ultimate Sierra, with rear-wheel steering to improve maneuverability, an air suspension and all-out leather interior.
When it comes to power, all Sierra EVs have plenty of horses packed within, but exactly how much depends on the trim and battery options. The Elevation and Denali Standard Range models make 645 horsepower, while the AT4 Extended Range generates 625 horsepower. A Max Range is available on the AT4 and Denali - on the AT4 it bumps power up to 725 horses and on the Denali, power increases to a very impressive 760 horsepower.
As for range, again trim level and battery options play a big role. The Elevation and Denali Standard Range models can travel up to 283 miles. The Extended Range increases that to 410 miles, while the AT4 can travel 390 miles. The Max Range stretches the range to 478 miles.
The tester is a Sierra Denali with the Max Range, so it packs the most horses and can travel the furthest on a single charge of the trio. It has an MSRP of $103,715. Prices for the Sierra EV Elevation start at $64,495.
Dominating the cabin if the Sierra EV is huge portrait-oriented infotainment systems. It's simple to use and features Google built-in, including the capability to run Google apps, however there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility or integration. A nice row of big, physical buttons at the bottom of the screen let you quickly adjust the climate controls. GM's Super Cruise is also included in the Sierra EV, allowing hands-off driving - and it now works when towing.
In typical GMC fashion, the Sierra EV offers excellent seating both front and rear and plenty of room. And the Sierra EV doesn't forget it's a truck, either. It has a 10,000 pound towing capacity as well as a folding midgate that allows you to extend the bed to inside the cabin, for extra utility.
While the Sierra EV Denali isn't as quick as the Rivian R1T, Lightning or Tesla Cybertruck, zero to 60 times in the mid 4 second range is nothing to slouch at - the big, electrified Sierra is plenty quick. Still, if you want to impress your neighbors, just show them the CrabWalk in the Sierra EV Denali, where its rear-wheel steering allows the truck to move diagonally at low speeds. Cool stuff indeed!
GMC packs a lot of technology and utility into the Sierra EV. And while the EV pickup truck remains somewhat of a niche market, GMC has a very competitive offering to its large customer base - many of which are looking for nothing more than a high-end luxury pickup truck. And that is exactly what the Sierra EV is.