Automotive

Major US automakers revive V8 engines as federal regulations ease

Automakers are expanding V8 lineups following changes in federal climate and efficiency rules, Business Insider reports.

Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 18:30 UTC1 reports

The short version

General Motors, Ram, and Ford are reviving or retaining V8 engine options across truck and sports car lineups.[Business Insider]
The product shifts follow relaxed federal emissions rules, the removal of companywide fuel-efficiency fines, and the end of federal EV tax credits.[Business Insider]
GM invested hundreds of millions of dollars to restart and expand truck V8 production, while Ram reintroduced its Hemi engine.[Business Insider]
Hybrid vehicles also gained market share, reaching 15.9% of vehicle sales in July according to JD Power.[Business Insider]

Federal regulators have relaxed emissions standards, eliminated companywide fuel-efficiency penalties, and ended the federal electric vehicle tax credit.[Business Insider]
GM introduced two new V8 engines for the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra after investing approximately $830 million in propulsion facilities.[Business Insider]
GM halted EV battery production at a Western New York facility and invested $888 million to resume V8 engine manufacturing for trucks.[Business Insider]
Ram brought back its Hemi V8 engine and relaunched the V8-powered TRX pickup model.[Business Insider]
Ford retained a 5.0-liter V8 in its updated 2027 F-150 and planned a faster SC trim for the V8 Mustang Dark Horse.[Business Insider]
Hybrids accounted for 15.9% of vehicle sales in July, up 2.5% compared to the prior year according to JD Power.[Business Insider]

The extent to which growing consumer adoption of hybrids will affect long-term sales and production targets for revived V8 truck lines remains unstated.[Business Insider]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.