Gas vs. Diesel vs. EV – Truck Options For Towing Your Airstream
If you tow an Airstream, you’ve likely been involved in the debate about the best type of truck to pair with your travel trailer. With today’s options ranging from gas and diesel to even EV electric trucks for towing an Airstream, the choice can be overwhelming. We spent a lot of time reading forums to learn about the experiences of experienced truck owners. We learned there are pros and cons to just about every truck choice. After conducting extensive research, we ultimately decided to go the diesel route.
In this post, we aim to delve deeper into the data and explore whether there is an objective best choice among gas, diesel, and electric trucks. We’ll look at various factors to help you explore the options related to the Airstream tow vehicle that will best fit your situation and preferences.
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Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Towing and Hauling Considerations
Gas Trucks – Towing
Gas trucks have been a popular choice for towing due to their widespread availability and general affordability. They offer decent towing capacities and are usually sufficient for smaller to mid-sized Airstream models.
Gas trucks, while often boasting higher towing capacities due to their payload, fall short in torque compared to diesel trucks. This difference in weight and torque makes them more prone to external forces like wind or passing semis, making them less stable on the road. On windy days, the contrast between driving a diesel truck and a gas truck becomes quite noticeable.
Pros:
- Availability: Easier to find at dealerships.
- Lower Initial Cost: Generally less expensive upfront compared to diesel.
- Quicker Acceleration: Faster off-the-line performance.
Cons:
- Lower Torque: Less torque than diesel engines, which can impact heavy towing loads.
- Fuel Economy: Typically, the fuel economy is poorer under load.
- Higher RPMs: Operate at higher RPMs, which can lead to more engine wear over time.
Diesel Trucks – Towing
Diesel trucks are often viewed as the gold standard for towing due to their superior torque and fuel efficiency under heavy loads. These attributes have cemented their status as a preferred choice for RVers, particularly those with heavy rigs or who embark on long-distance journeys. Diesel trucks are particularly well-suited for larger Airstream models and longer hauls.
We chose a Ford F250 Diesel to tow our 27-foot Airstream International trailer. Time has proven this to be an optimal combination for us.
Pros:
- High Torque: Superior torque for effortlessly towing heavy loads.
- Fuel Efficiency: Better fuel economy under load compared to gas trucks.
- Longevity: Generally have a longer lifespan due to the robust construction of diesel engines.
Cons:
- Upfront Cost: Higher initial purchase price.
- Maintenance Costs: Can be more expensive compared to gasoline-powered trucks.
- Emissions: Higher emissions unless equipped with modern emission control systems.
EV Trucks – Towing
Electric vehicles are the newest entrants in the towing market. While still relatively new, they are gaining traction due to their environmental benefits and low operational costs. Electric trucks combine substantial torque similar to diesel with a quieter, more environmentally friendly operation. However, their range under heavy towing conditions is still evolving, making them a better choice for shorter trips until battery technology advances further. The future of electric trucks in the towing market looks promising as innovations continue to improve their efficiency and capabilities.
If you plan to tow your Airstream on shorter-distance trips that are relatively close to home, an EV truck may be a viable choice. As the expected range of an EV truck can drop by half when towing a trailer, you’ll want to think through a day-in-the-life of towing when you have to charge after 100 miles or so.
Pros:
- Instant Torque: Electric motors provide instant torque, which is beneficial for towing.
- Low Operating Cost: Lower cost per mile compared to gas or diesel.
- Eco-Friendly: Zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Cons:
- Range Anxiety: Limited range, especially when towing heavy loads.
- Charging Infrastructure: Charging stations may not be as readily available in remote camping areas.
- Upfront Cost: Generally have a high initial purchase price.
Towing and Hauling Winner: Diesel Trucks
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Vehicle Purchase Cost
Regarding upfront costs, gas trucks generally have the lowest price tags, followed by diesel and EV trucks. However, we must consider the long-term value and operating costs, which we will explore further.
Gas Trucks – Purchase Cost
Gas trucks average $30,000 to $50,000, making them a more affordable option than diesel trucks. A potential buyer can save thousands of dollars by choosing a gas truck over a diesel truck. This lower upfront cost may make it a more attractive choice for those on a budget or looking for a simple towing solution. However, it’s essential to consider the long-term costs of owning and operating a gas truck before making your final decision.
Diesel Trucks – Purchase Cost
Diesel trucks have an average cost of $40,000 to $70,000, which is significantly higher than gas trucks. This is due to their heavier construction, increased towing capacity and torque, and more complex emissions reduction systems. Diesel engines are known for longevity and can often surpass 100,000 miles with proper maintenance. This longer expected lifespan can contribute to a higher resale value compared to gas trucks.
EV Trucks – Purchase Cost
EV trucks are still relatively new to the market, and there are currently limited options compared to gas or diesel trucks. The average cost of an EV truck is around $50,000 to $70,000, making them more expensive than gas trucks but on par with diesel trucks. However, it’s important to note that this price may be reduced by federal tax credits and state incentives for purchasing an electric vehicle.
It’s also worth mentioning that some of the most popular EV trucks, such as the Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T, have long wait times for purchase due to high demand relative to a limited supply. This can be a significant factor for those looking to make a quick purchase or needing a truck for immediate towing needs.
Purchase Cost Winner: Gas Trucks
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Long-Term Costs
When it comes to long-term costs, there are several factors to consider. These can include fuel
economy, maintenance costs, and potential resale value. Let’s look at how each type of truck stacks up in these categories.
Gas Trucks – Long-Term Costs
Gas trucks usually have lower upfront costs but may cost more in the long run due to their lower fuel efficiency under load. As mentioned earlier, they also generally have shorter lifespans compared to diesel engines, which can result in costs over time, especially if a replacement vehicle needs to be considered sooner than would be the case with an alternative vehicle. However, gas trucks hold their resale value relatively well.
Diesel Trucks – Long-Term Costs
Diesel trucks retain their value better than gas trucks. Yet, the gas vs. diesel debate continues to
inspire discussions. Historically, diesel trucks were the clear frontrunners regarding total cost of ownership (TCO).
However, the rising cost of diesel fuel and long-term maintenance has complicated these figures. More recent studies show that while diesel vans remain more cost-effective than gas, their TCO is not better overall than their gas counterparts. On average, the lifetime ownership cost of a diesel truck was about $2,000 more than a gas equivalent.
EV Trucks – Long-Term Costs
The landscape changes even further when electric vehicles (EVs) are considered in the mix. EV
electric trucks typically have higher upfront costs than gas and diesel trucks. However, they offer lower operational and maintenance costs over their lifecycle. EVs benefit from fewer moving parts, which reduces the frequency and cost of repairs and maintenance.
One of the significant advantages of EV trucks is their efficiency and the increasing availability of
renewable energy sources, which contribute to reducing operational costs. Additionally, government incentives often make EVs a more attractive option financially. When calculating the TCO for EV trucks, many find that although the initial purchase price is higher, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance can be substantial.
While diesel trucks may offer better resale value and gas trucks present lower upfront costs, EV trucks align better with future cost-saving expectations due to their reduced operational expenses and potential incentives. The decision will ultimately depend on your specific use case, mileage, and long-term financial strategy.
Long-Term Cost Winner: Gas
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Getting the Best Rate to Buy Your Truck
Securing a good deal on your truck involves a few strategic steps:
- Do Your Research: Compare prices across multiple dealerships and online platforms.
- Consider Timing: End-of-year sales and holiday promotions often offer better deals.
- Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price or ask for additional features at no extra cost.
- Financing Options: Explore various financing options to get the best interest rates.
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Depreciation Costs
Depreciation is a significant factor to consider, as it affects the long-term value of your vehicle.
Understanding depreciation is crucial when considering the long-term costs associated with owning a truck. Let’s take a closer look at how gas, diesel, and electric trucks (EVs) compare in terms of depreciation.
Gas Trucks – Depreciation
Gasoline-powered trucks generally have a lower upfront cost compared to diesel and electric models. However, their depreciation rate can be somewhat higher. This is primarily due to the market perception that gas engines may not be as durable as diesel engines, especially regarding heavy-duty usage. Additionally, gas trucks require more frequent maintenance, which can further impact their resale value. Despite these factors, the market for gas-powered trucks remains strong, partly because of their lower initial purchase price and more straightforward maintenance requirements. Owners may find that while depreciation takes a toll, the overall lifecycle cost remains manageable.
- Depreciation Rate: Generally, gas trucks depreciate faster than diesel trucks but slower than most EVs.
Diesel Trucks – Depreciation
Diesel trucks are often touted for their durability and fuel efficiency, translating to higher resale values. This has been particularly evident since 2020, as the market for diesel trucks has surged. Studies have shown that diesel trucks can retain significantly more value over time compared to their gas counterparts. For instance, a University of Michigan study conducted in 2012-2013 found a 35% spread in value between gas and diesel trucks at auction. However, the higher upfront cost and increased maintenance expenses of diesel trucks can offset these resale benefits. While they generally depreciate at a slower rate, the overall cost of ownership may only sometimes favor diesel trucks once all factors are considered.
- Depreciation Rate: Diesel trucks tend to hold their value better due to their durability and towing capacity.
Electric Trucks – Depreciation
Electric trucks are the new players in the market, and their depreciation rates are still being established. Generally, EVs tend to depreciate faster than traditional gas and diesel trucks, primarily due to concerns about battery lifespan and the rapid pace of technological advancements. However, electric trucks offer lower operating and maintenance costs, which can be a significant advantage. As the infrastructure for electric vehicles improves and technology stabilizes, we may see a shift in depreciation patterns. Potential buyers should weigh the environmental benefits and lower running costs against the current higher depreciation rate.
- Depreciation Rate: EVs can depreciate quickly, but this changes as they become more mainstream and technology improves.
In conclusion, each type of truck—gas, diesel, and electric—has pros and cons regarding depreciation. Gas trucks tend to depreciate faster but offer a lower initial investment. Diesel trucks hold their value better but incur higher upfront and maintenance costs. Electric trucks, although experiencing rapid depreciation, promise lower operational costs and are an environmentally friendly choice. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision based on your needs and financial situation.
Depreciation Cost Winner: Diesel
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is crucial for long-distance towing, affecting your overall travel budget.
Gas Trucks – Fuel Economy
Gas trucks have an average fuel economy of 10-15 miles per gallon (MPG) when towing, which is significantly lower than diesel trucks. This means that gas trucks will consume more fuel and require more frequent stops to refuel while on the road. In contrast, diesel trucks have a much higher fuel efficiency when towing, with an average MPG of 15-25. Over time, this can result in significant cost savings for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
Compared to EVs, gas truck fuel costs are also higher per mile.
- Average MPG: 10-15 MPG when towing.
- Fuel Cost: Higher per mile compared to diesel and electric.
Diesel Trucks – Fuel Economy
Diesel trucks are known for their fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for long-distance towing. When pulling a trailer, diesel trucks typically get an average of 15-20 mpg, which is higher than gas vehicles. However, this can vary depending on the weight and size of the trailer being towed.
Diesel fuel is generally more expensive than gasoline, but diesel engines are more efficient and can travel further on a gallon of fuel. Another factor to consider is that diesel trucks require DEF (diesel exhaust fluid), which adds an extra expense to operating costs.
Regarding towing, fuel economy is crucial to the overall travel budget. The better the mpg, the fewer fuel stops are needed, making it a significant consideration for long-distance towing with diesel trucks. Overall, the fuel economy of diesel trucks is a strong selling point and can save owners money in the long run.
- Average MPG: 15-20 MPG when towing.
- Fuel Cost: Lower per mile than gas but higher than electric.
EV Trucks – Fuel Economy
Electric trucks have a significant advantage over gasoline and diesel trucks when it comes to fuel economy. With an average equivalent of 100 MPG, EVs are much more cost-effective in energy consumption. However, this may vary depending on the price of electricity and driving habits.
One major issue for EVs regarding long-distance towing is the limited range per charge. While they can typically travel 200-300 miles on a single charge, this can significantly diminish when towing a heavy trailer such as an Airstream.
Additionally, there is currently a lack of infrastructure for recharging EV batteries while on the road, which can be problematic for those planning to tow trailers with their electric trucks. Manufacturers and governments will need to address this in order for EV trucks to become a more viable option for long-distance towing.
Overall, while EVs may have the best energy economy, some hurdles still need to be overcome for them to be a practical choice for those who frequently tow heavy loads. However, as technology continues to improve and infrastructure catches up, we can expect electric trucks to become an even more attractive option for long-distance towing.
- Average Range: 200-300 miles per charge (varies significantly with towing).
- Cost Per Mile: Significantly lower, but range can be a limiting factor.
Fuel Economy Winner: EV
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Maintenance
Maintenance costs and requirements vary significantly between gas, diesel, and electric trucks.
Gas Trucks – Maintenance
Regarding maintenance, gas trucks hold a distinct advantage over diesel trucks despite the need for regular spark plug replacements.
- Maintenance Frequency: Regular (oil changes, spark plugs, etc.)
- Cost: Moderate
Diesel Trucks – Maintenance
Diesel trucks, while lacking spark plugs, often face higher long-term maintenance costs due to their intricate emissions systems. Diesel engines incorporate parts like the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system that, although designed to reduce harmful emissions, can become clogged over time and require expensive replacements. We know from personal experience that service on the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) can be very expensive. You can watch our video here about this issue.
Additionally, servicing diesel engines necessitates specialized knowledge, making it challenging to find qualified mechanics.
On the bright side, diesel trucks typically require fewer oil changes—every 7,000 miles compared to 5,000 miles for gas trucks—though each change is more costly due to larger oil capacities. Still, since diesel trucks hold more oil, you’ll pay more for each oil change. We use synthetic oil when we change the oil on our Ford F250.
- Maintenance Frequency: Less frequent but more expensive (fuel filters, DEF fluid, etc.)
- Cost: High
EV Trucks – Maintenance
Electric vehicles (EVs) revolutionize the maintenance landscape by eliminating many common issues associated with internal combustion engines. EV owners can say goodbye to oil changes and smog checks. EVs also eschew traditional belts and timing belts, replacing them with electric systems that power accessories, thereby reducing wear-and-tear replacement costs. Regenerative braking systems in EVs further lessen the reliance on mechanical brakes, cutting down the frequency and cost of brake maintenance as they utilize the electric motor to aid in slowing the vehicle while recharging the battery.
Despite these advantages, it’s important to note that EVs are not entirely maintenance-free. One
Surprisingly, EVs tend to wear out tires faster than their gasoline counterparts due to the added weight of the battery. This increased weight accelerates tire wear, necessitating more frequent replacements. Moreover, some EVs utilize a liquid-cooled battery system with hoses and radiators, similar to traditional coolant systems in gas vehicles, requiring periodic inspection and
fluid changes. Routine items like windshield wiper blades and cabin air filters also need regular attention, just as in any other vehicle.
However, even with these maintenance needs, EVs typically incur lower overall costs than gas-powered vehicles. According to the federal Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, maintaining an EV costs approximately 6 cents per mile, whereas a gas-powered car costs about 10 cents per mile. While these figures are averages and can vary based on driving habits, location, and vehicle type, it’s clear that EVs offer a more cost-effective solution for long-term maintenance.
- Maintenance Frequency: Minimal (battery health checks, brake fluid)
- Cost: Low
Maintenance Winner: EV
Gas vs Diesel vs EV for Towing an Airstream
Expected Vehicle Lifespan
The expected lifespan of a vehicle is a crucial consideration for long-term investment.
Gas Trucks – Lifespan
Gas engines in modern trucks have seen substantial improvements, capable of towing heavy loads with impressive torque. However, gas engines typically wear out faster under extensive towing and heavy hauling compared to their diesel counterparts. Despite this, gas trucks benefit from lighter engine components, which can result in a higher payload capacity within the overall Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). While not as long-lived as diesel engines in demanding conditions, gas trucks can still provide extended service life under more balanced usage scenarios. This comprehensive understanding of gas trucks’ lifespan and performance under different conditions is crucial for making an informed decision about long-term investment in trucks.
- Lifespan: 150,000 – 200,000 miles
Diesel Trucks – Lifespan
Diesel engines are renowned for their exceptional durability, often surpassing 200,000 miles with ease. Enthusiasts frequently view the first 100,000 miles as merely the break-in period, with the engine’s peak performance just beginning. Thanks to robust engine blocks and rugged internal components built to endure high compression ratios, diesel engines can last significantly longer. Additionally, diesel fuel’s less corrosive nature compared to gasoline helps extend the life of the exhaust system. As a result, diesel trucks often command higher resale values, particularly at high mileage.
- Lifespan: 200,000 – 300,000 miles
EV Trucks – Lifespan
The expected lifespan of an EV truck is highly dependent on the battery’s health and capacity. Most manufacturers offer a warranty for their batteries, typically around 8 years or 100,000 miles. This means that the battery should maintain at least 70-80% of its original capacity within this time frame. With proper maintenance and care, EV batteries can last much longer, with some estimates suggesting they can retain up to 90% of their capacity after 10 years or more of use. This potential for longevity in EV truck batteries, coupled with the continuous advancements in electric vehicle technology, paints an optimistic picture for the future of electric trucks as a cost-effective and efficient long-term investment for fleet owners.
- Lifespan: Battery life is a significant factor, typically 8-15 years before a significant decrease in range.
Expected Lifespan Winner: Diesel
Which Type of Truck is Best for Towing an Airstream?
Choosing the best truck for towing an Airstream depends on your specific needs and priorities:
If You Value Cost-Efficiency:
- Best Choice: Gas Truck
- Why: Lower upfront costs and widespread availability make gas trucks a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.
If You Need Superior Towing Capacity:
- Best Choice: Diesel Truck
- Why: Diesel trucks provide the highest torque and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for towing heavier Airstream models over long distances.
If You Prioritize Sustainability:
- Best Choice: EV Truck
- Why: With zero emissions and lower operational costs, EV trucks are an excellent choice for eco-conscious RV enthusiasts, provided you plan your trips around charging stations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right truck is a very personal decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you opt for a gas, diesel, or electric vehicle (EV) truck, it’s essential to consider how you plan to use the vehicle and what features are most important to you.
Diesel trucks offer durability and power for heavy-duty towing, making them ideal for those who need long-lasting performance. On the other hand, gas trucks provide excellent value and versatility, perfect for lighter towing and everyday use. Meanwhile, EV trucks are rapidly emerging as a viable option, especially for those prioritizing sustainability and lower operating costs. These trucks are becoming increasingly capable, providing impressive torque and efficiency.
In our comparison of various factors, each type of car has an advantage in at least two areas. That makes the choice difficult. In addition to the areas we explored in this article, a big factor will also be the size and weight of your Airstream, how far you plan to tow your trailer, and the type of terrain you expect to travel.
Ultimately, your choice should reflect your budget, travel style, towing requirements, and willingness to handle potential maintenance. Happy travels, and may you find the perfect vehicle to meet all your adventures on the road.
Julie & Art
The Places Where We Go
