Pickup trucks are the most popular form of automotive transportation in America, so it is not surprising that the surging interest in all-electric rides has generated a raft of EV trucks and wannabe trucks. Today, there are only three production EV trucks on our streets, the lifestyle Rivian L1T, crab walking GMC Hummer, and working man’s Ford F150 Lightning. In the wings are pickups from mainstream manufacturers and startups alike who have models that may, or may not, go into production in the next two years.

If we included them all, it would look like a list of brands from the late 19th century when the first horseless carriages replaced the one to four-horsepower buggies with completely new vehicles capable of incredible speed and no poop to pick up. But because most of those brands disappeared after a short run, we will stick to models that appear likely to hit the road, in one form or another, in the next 24 months.

The Three EV Pioneers

First to the marketplace are three EV trucks that are really competing for three different (albeit wealthy) audiences. Being first greatly enhances brand awareness, but it also gives the makers two years of actual field experience to tweak, refine, and improve their rides before serious competition arrives. So let’s take a quick look at each:

GMC Hummer

Welcome to a new class of pickup. This one has an Ultium 24-module battery that generates 1,000 horsepower spread through three motors for a combined axel torque of 11,500 lb-ft. Three amazing driving modes, including Crab Walk and Watts to Freedom (aka launch mode), allow for all-wheel steering and supercar acceleration (0 to 60 in 3 seconds). But at the heart of this beast is the new Ultium platform and battery chemistry that gives this truck a range of 320 miles, 7,500 lb. towing and 1,00 payload, superfast DC charging capability, and a host of abilities including one-pedal driving and autonomous features no other truck has ever been able to do. Of course, all this tech comes at a cost. Starting at $108,700, the Hummer currently has commanded over $200,000 in some markets.

Rivian L1T A “lifestyle” vehicle with a luxurious, tech-packed cabin, the R1T comes loaded with some serious off-road cred, including the ability to climb at a 450 angle. Range and performance depend on the battery installed. The standard pack offers up to 230 miles of range, 402 horsepower, and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the extended range battery provides 314 miles of range, 754 horsepower, and 826 lb-ft of torque. Rivian claims a 0 to 60 time of 3 seconds. An adjustable air suspension system and super low center of gravity give this ride surprising maneuverability on sketchy terrain. Smaller than a full-size but larger than a mid-size, the L17 comfortably seats five and carries a starting price of $68,575 but can quickly get to $100,000+.

Ford F150 Lightning

There are really two versions of the new EV F159. The entry trim Pro has an excellent package and an after-federal tax credit cost of about $32,000 that will sell like hotcakes to fleets, and the XLT trim and up trims compete for off-road enthusiasts and can run $70,000 and up. The Lariat is a two-motor model with an extended range battery that has a range of 300 miles, 585 horsepower, tows 10,000 lbs., and hauls 2.250 lbs. of payload. The multi-purpose frunk offers over 14 cu ft of secure storage plus 120v and 220 v outlets perfect for charging power tools. An optional power takeoff can even power the average home for three days during a power outage.​​​​​​​

What the Next Two Years Are Likely to Provide

While there is a raft of proposed electric pickups, here are a few that have overcome basic challenges and most likely will produce some form of vehicle in the next two years.

Tesla Cybertruck

Redefining what a pickup appears to be the primary goal of this “supertruck”. With an exoskeleton of hard rolled steel and Tesla Armor Glass and a design that is definitely “next world,” the Cybertruck purportedly has a tri-motor drivetrain that can go 500 miles, tow14,000 lbs., and get to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds. And that’s just the beginning. Prices start at $49,900.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

Built on the same platform and in the same plant as the GMC Hummer, the Silverado will be a dual motor drivetrain that generates 400 miles of range, can tow 10,000 lbs. and carry 1,300 lbs. Priced from $42,000 to $107,000, this Chevy is expected to be stiff competition for the F150 EV.

Lordstown Endurance

Sporting a unique four-motor hub system, the Endurance claims a range of 250 miles, 600 horsepower, and a towing capacity of 7,500 lbs. This five-passenger crew cab ride is little known other than it has undergone some serious financial and legal problems. Scheduled for release in 2023, the Endurance will be priced at $52,500.

There are many more EV trucks in development, including models from mainstream manufacturers like Toyota and RAM, but we will have to wait and see what actually hits the streets.

If you’re looking to give your vehicle a more aggressive stance, while also giving it extra ground clearance and performance capabilities, then a Rough Country lift kit available at American Wheel and Tire in Houston is just what you need. Rough Country is one of the leading manufacturers of lift kits, suspensions, and other off-road products, offering high-quality suspension systems for nearly all makes and models of trucks and SUVs.

The best part about a Rough Country lift kit is that it doesn’t require any welding or cutting for installation. All of the parts come in a pre-packaged kit and include detailed instructions to make the installation process quick and easy. When installing a lift kit from Rough Country, you can be sure that your vehicle will have the ultimate in performance and looks.

Rough Country lift kits come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find the perfect match for your specific vehicle. You can choose from milder lifts that just provide extra ground clearance, or more extreme lifts that provide added performance capabilities. You can also choose between complete suspension systems and just the components you need to customize your ride.

Not only do Rough Country lift kits give your vehicle a mean look, they also provide improved performance on and off-road. The increased ground clearance allows you to navigate terrain more confidently, while the adjustable coil spring rates let you fine-tune handling and adjust ride height to match your desired driving style. Plus, all of their suspension products are backed by manufacturer warranties so you know that you’re getting a quality product that will last.

So if you’re looking for a way to take your vehicle’s performance and appearance to the next level, consider investing in a Rough Country lift kit. With their complete line of suspension products and detailed instructions for easy installation, you’ll be able to give your vehicle the full transformation you’ve been dreaming of in no time! If a self installation sound like to much work, come on into American Wheel and Tire and have one of our experts install it for you.

If you’re the proud owner of a car, truck, SUV or motorcycle, chances are that you love the look and performance of your wheels. But with any wheel comes the risk of damage, which can be anything from minor dents and scratches to major cracks or bends. That’s why it’s essential to take good care of your wheels and have them repaired when necessary. Wheel repair is a great way to protect your investment, improve the look and performance of your vehicle, and keep it running safely for years to come.

Wheel repair doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming. At American Wheel and Tire, our experienced technicians can provide fast, efficient repairs for all kinds of wheels, from standard steel to custom alloy. With advanced equipment and techniques, we’re able to provide a range of services that include straightening bent rims, welding cracks, and refinishing to beautify even the most severely damaged wheels. We also offer professional tire service and balancing to ensure that your wheels are ready for the road as quickly as possible.

At American Wheel and Tire Wheel Repair, we take pride in our commitment to quality and customer service. We understand the importance of keeping your vehicle looking and driving its best, so we make sure to use only top-notch materials and tools when repairing your wheels. We also back our work with a satisfaction guarantee, so you can trust that your wheels will be repaired correctly and efficiently.

If you’re looking for quality wheel repair services at an affordable price, look no further than American Wheel and Tire Wheel Repair. Our certified technicians have decades of experience in wheel repair, so you can trust that your wheels will be in safe hands. Contact us today for a free quote on all your wheel repair needs!

Whether you like racing across desert sand a la Baja, the disorienting experience of driving slowly, methodically, and thoughtfully over boulders the size of buffalos, or something in between, off-roading is your passion. But let’s not make it sound so noble. At the heart of it is the thrill of getting away with something logic says you shouldn’t do. That rutted trail with logs and rocks strewn across it or that mud hole or sand dune were not intended as roads for ordinary vehicles, but you drive over them anyway. It’s kind of like sneaking into the neighbor’s pool when they are gone. You shouldn’t do it, but you do. 

The biggest challenge to fulfilling your need for off-road adventure is finding and gaining access to the terrain and climate you want. Thanks to the ever-growing off-road community, you can find commercial and government-sanction off-road trails in virtually every state. Even New Jersey, the densest populated state in the union, has dozens of off-road trails. 

Of course, some states, primarily big states, offer more off-roading opportunities than others. With that in mind, its easy to see why we here in Texas have access to some of the best off-road country anywhere in the US.

Texas Off-Road Trails

In the Lone Star State, off-roading is referred to as overlanding, and there are hundreds of trails and roads on public lands and national parks where you can test out your 4×4 skills. But before you head out, visit Texas Parks & Wildlife and purchase an OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) tag so you can legally travel the state trails.

The massive Great Bend National Park is the daddy of all off-road trail sites in Texas. Within the boundaries, you will find trails, tracks, and roads that range from beginner to technically challenging. For example, Jeep thinks so much about Black Gap Road it awarded the trail their Badge of Honor award. In addition, incredible tracks serve up vistas of the Chisos Mountain Range and the Chihuahuan desert. Also in the park are notable trails like River Road OHV Trail, and Old ORE OHV Road.

If you want to ride where the sand meets the Gulf, Mustang Island Beaches is the place for you. The 13-mile beach is relatively easy to negotiate, but if you want to spend a day at the beach and play in the surf, this stretch of sand is perfect. The island is also home to some of the best shallow water fishing that you will find in the Texas area, as well as paddling trails, and secret coves that most tourists wouldn’t be able to find in an average sedan. If you’re looking to explore this unspoiled barrier island park we would recommend checking out the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s guide to the area

Our final pick was tough. The lone star state is the second largest state in the US and covers 268,597 square miles, and is covered with beautiful scenery and rugged terrain. However, if you’re in the San Antonia area then you have to check out the iconic Hill Country Trail. The Texas Hill Country Route consists of 148 miles of dirt and gravel trails winding through hills, mesas, and valleys. It is a beautiful country, and while the trails are relatively easy to navigate, there are some tricky creek fordings that come into play. With a trail this massive you could spend days exploring all of the small offshoots, small towns, and natural caves on this beautiful road, we would recommend checking out this extensive guide on Overland Trail Guides

Virtually every state has off-road trails and parks. Our best recommendation is to visit your state’s Department of Natural Resources to learn locations, maps, licensing requirements, and types of off-road vehicles allowed. Enjoy!

Full vehicle wraps have become an increasingly popular way for car owners to express their personal style while also protecting their vehicles. At American Wheel and Tire in Houston, Texas, full vehicle wraps are available for cars, trucks, and SUVs of all makes and models. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of full vehicle wraps and why American Wheel and Tire is the perfect choice for your next vehicle customization project.

What is a Full Vehicle Wrap?

A full vehicle wrap is a vinyl material that is applied to the entire surface of a vehicle. This material is designed to adhere to the surface of the car and can be easily removed without damaging the paint. Full vehicle wraps are available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, including matte, glossy, metallic, and more. They can also be custom designed with graphics or images, making them a unique and eye-catching way to personalize your vehicle.

Benefits of Full Vehicle Wraps

There are many benefits to installing a full vehicle wrap on your car, truck, or SUV. One of the biggest advantages is the protection it provides for the vehicle’s paint job. The vinyl material acts as a protective barrier against scratches, dings, and other forms of damage. This means that the original paint job of the vehicle will be preserved, which is especially important for those who plan on reselling their vehicle in the future.

Another benefit of full vehicle wraps is that they are an affordable way to change the look of a vehicle. Rather than spending thousands of dollars on a custom paint job, a full vehicle wrap can achieve the same effect for a fraction of the cost. Additionally, full vehicle wraps can be easily removed, making it a great option for those who like to change the appearance of their vehicle frequently.

Why Choose American Wheel and Tire?

At American Wheel and Tire, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and services. Our team of experienced professionals has been in the vehicle customization industry for over 30 years, and we have the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve your vision for your vehicle.

We use only the highest quality vinyl materials and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your full vehicle wrap is installed perfectly. Our team of experts takes pride in their work and will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your full vehicle wrap is exactly what you envisioned.

In addition to full vehicle wraps, we also offer a wide variety of other vehicle customization services, including window tinting, suspension upgrades, and custom wheels and tires. We have a large selection of products available in our showroom, and our team is always available to help you find the perfect customization options for your vehicle.

Full Vehicle Wraps at AWT

Full vehicle wraps are a great way to protect your vehicle’s paint job while also expressing your personal style. At American Wheel and Tire in Houston, Texas, we offer a wide variety of full vehicle wraps for cars, trucks, and SUVs of all makes and models. Our team of experts has the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve your vision for your vehicle, and we use only the highest quality materials and equipment to ensure that your full vehicle wrap is installed perfectly. Contact us today to learn more about our full vehicle wrap options and other vehicle customization services.

With the popularity of off-roading rapidly increasing, wheel styles have never been more important for recreational and competitive off-roaders. Whether you’re a rock crawler, mudder, or trail rider, your wheel styles can make or break your off-road vehicle.

As wheel technology continues to advance, and the competition for trendy wheel styles rises, here are the top five off-road wheel types, features and styles for 2023. 

1. Beadlock Wheels: If you’re serious about your off-roading then beadlock wheels are essential for optimal performance. Beadlock wheels feature extra mounting points around the circumference of the wheel that not only helps to keep the tire securely in place, but also adds an aggressive look to your vehicle. 

2. Forged Aluminum Wheels: Forged aluminum wheels are lighter and stronger than cast aluminum wheels, making them ideal for off-roading. This type of wheel is designed to provide maximum traction on any terrain while also looking great. 

3. Deep Dish Wheels: With a thick rim and deep dish profile, deep dish wheels look amazing on any off-road vehicle. Their design offers a striking look while providing enhanced resistance to impacts when driving over uneven terrain.

4. Split-Spoke Wheels: Split-spoke wheels are becoming increasingly popular among off-roaders thanks to their eye-catching design and extra strength compared to traditional spoked wheels. Splitting the spokes into two parts increases the strength of the wheel without adding extra weight. 

5. Flow Form Wheels: Flow form wheels are constructed using a process called “flow forming” which involves extreme pressure and heat being applied to an aluminum wheel blank during manufacturing. This process results in a wheel that is lighter and stronger than a traditional cast wheel, but with a look that is just as attractive. 

These five wheel manufacturing types, features and styles are sure to be popular among off-roaders in 2023 and beyond! Whether you’re looking for something lightweight and strong, something with a striking design, or something that can take on rough terrain with ease, there’s sure to be something here that meets your needs.

If you’re looking for off-road wheels for your vehicle, then look no further than American Wheel and Tire in Houston, Texas. They have a large selection of quality off-road wheels for all types of vehicles. Whether you’re looking for beadlock wheels, forged aluminum wheels, deep dish wheels, split-spoke wheels, or flow form wheels, you’re sure to find something you love. With competitive pricing and excellent customer service, you can trust American Wheel and Tire to provide you with the off-road wheels you need to take your vehicle to the next level.

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