Electric trucks under $20,000 are rare, but used models and smaller vehicles exist in that range

A brand-new electric truck from a major manufacturer will cost more than $20,000 — most start around $35,000 to $55,000. However, you have options if that is your budget. Used electric trucks from recent model years sometimes fall into the $15,000 to $25,000 range, depending on mileage and condition. You can also look at smaller electric vehicles that function like trucks — compact pickups, electric vans, or work-focused EVs designed for light hauling rather than heavy towing.

The key is understanding what "truck" means to you. If you need something that hauls heavy loads or tows a trailer, a $20,000 budget is tight. If you need a vehicle for light cargo, local deliveries, or personal use with some hauling capacity, your options open up considerably.

Key Takeaways

  • Used electric trucks from 2018 to 2022 sometimes appear in the $18,000 to $24,000 range, though inventory is limited and prices vary by region.
  • Smaller electric vehicles like the Chevy EV600, Ford E-Transit, or used Nissan e-NV200 vans offer truck-like cargo space at lower prices than full-size electric pickups.
  • Battery condition and remaining warranty coverage matter more for used EVs than for gas vehicles, so inspection reports and service history are essential.
  • Charging infrastructure in your area and your access to home charging affect the real cost of ownership, since public charging adds time and sometimes money to every trip.

Used electric trucks in your price range

The Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning are the main electric trucks on the market, but both are new-vehicle prices above $50,000. Used models are starting to appear as leases end and early buyers trade in, but they are still scarce and often priced above $30,000. Your best bet for a used electric truck in the $20,000 range is looking at 2018 to 2021 models from smaller manufacturers or regional markets, or waiting for more used inventory to build up over the next two to three years.

When you do find a used electric truck, check the battery health report — most dealers can run this through the manufacturer's diagnostic system. A battery that has degraded to 70 percent of its original capacity is still usable but will reduce your range by roughly 30 percent. Ask for the original purchase date and charging history if possible; a truck that was fast-charged constantly will have more degradation than one charged mostly at home.

Smaller electric vehicles that work like trucks

If you expand your definition slightly, several vehicles under $20,000 offer truck-like cargo capacity. The Chevy EV600 is a compact electric van designed for small business use, with about 200 miles of range and a flat cargo floor. Used models from 2021 onward sometimes appear in the $18,000 to $22,000 range. The Ford E-Transit is larger and more expensive new, but used versions may fall into your budget depending on mileage and local availability.

The Nissan e-NV200, sold in some US markets, is a smaller electric van with roughly 150 miles of range and a lower price point than larger commercial vans. Used examples can be found for $15,000 to $20,000. These vehicles are not traditional pickups — they have enclosed cargo areas rather than open beds — but they haul cargo, carry tools, and work for delivery or light commercial use.

Another option is a used Tesla Cybertruck or Hummer EV from a private seller, though this is unlikely in your price range for several years. Instead, look at used compact electric pickups from Chinese manufacturers if they become available in your region, or consider waiting for the Chevy Equinox EV or Volkswagen ID.Buzz, which may offer lower-priced variants.

What battery range and charging mean at this price point

Most electric trucks and truck-like vehicles in the $20,000 range will have 150 to 250 miles of range per charge. That is enough for daily commuting and local work, but not for long road trips without planning. If you drive 30 miles a day, you can charge once a week at home. If you drive 100 miles a day, you will need to charge every other day or use public charging regularly.

Home charging is the biggest money-saver. A Level 2 charger (240 volts) installed at your house costs $500 to $2,000 and adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. If you do not have a garage or driveway, or if your landlord does not allow charger installation, public charging becomes your routine, which adds time and sometimes $3 to $8 per charge depending on the network. This cost difference can add up to $1,000 to $2,000 per year.

Depreciation and resale value of used electric trucks

Electric vehicles depreciate differently than gas vehicles. A used EV loses value faster in the first three years because battery technology improves quickly and buyers worry about long-term battery health. However, after that initial drop, depreciation slows. A truck you buy for $20,000 today might be worth $15,000 to $17,000 in three years, depending on mileage and battery condition.

The advantage is that electric trucks have lower maintenance costs — no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking means brake pads last longer. Over five years, you will likely spend $500 to $1,000 on maintenance versus $2,000 to $3,000 for a comparable gas truck. This offsets some of the depreciation loss.

Where to find used electric trucks and vans

Used electric trucks are not yet common on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, though that is changing. Your main sources are dealer inventory (both new-car dealers and used-car lots), auction sites like Copart and IAA, and manufacturer certified pre-owned programs. Chevy, Ford, and Tesla all have CPO programs with warranty coverage and inspection standards, though CPO vehicles are usually priced higher than private-party sales.

Regional availability matters. Electric vehicles are more common in California, the Northeast, and the Pacific Northwest, so you will find more inventory and lower prices in those areas. If you live in a region with fewer EVs, you may need to expand your search to neighboring states or wait for inventory to build.

Incentives and tax credits for used electric vehicles

Federal tax credits for used electric vehicles became available in 2024, though the rules are specific. You may be able to claim up to $4,000 on your tax return if you buy a used EV that meets certain conditions: the vehicle must be at least two years old, priced under $25,000, and sold by a licensed dealer. Your income must also fall below certain limits (roughly $55,000 for a single filer, $110,000 for a married couple filing jointly).

Some states offer additional rebates or tax credits for used EV purchases. Check your state's energy office or environmental agency website for current programs. These credits reduce your out-of-pocket cost but do not lower the purchase price — you claim them when you file taxes, so you need cash upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow a trailer with a $20,000 electric truck?

Most used electric trucks and vans in this price range have limited towing capacity — typically 3,500 to 5,000 pounds. Towing drains the battery faster and reduces your range by 20 to 40 percent. If you need to tow regularly, you will want a newer, more powerful model, which costs more.

What happens if the battery fails on a used electric truck?

Battery replacement costs $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the vehicle and capacity. Most used EVs still have some manufacturer warranty coverage on the battery (often 8 years or 100,000 miles), so check the warranty status before buying. After warranty expires, battery failure becomes your responsibility.

Is it cheaper to own an electric truck than a gas truck?

Over five years, an electric truck typically costs less to operate because electricity is cheaper than gas and maintenance is lower. However, the upfront purchase price is higher, and you need access to charging. If you drive 12,000 miles a year, you will save roughly $1,500 to $2,000 annually on fuel and maintenance.

Should I buy used or wait for prices to drop?

Used electric truck prices have stabilized after dropping sharply in 2023. Waiting another year or two will bring more inventory and potentially lower prices, but you lose the benefit of driving an EV now. If you need a vehicle today and have $20,000, buying used is reasonable; if you can wait, more options will exist in 2025 and 2026.

What if I cannot charge at home?

You can own an electric truck without home charging, but it is less convenient and more expensive. You will rely on public charging networks, which means longer stops and per-charge fees. If you drive short distances daily, public charging works. If you drive 100+ miles daily, home charging becomes nearly essential.