Stellantis Pumps the Brakes on Ram 1500 REV Launch, Citing Market Trends
Electric truck hopefuls will have to wait a bit longer for the Ram 1500 REV. Stellantis, the automaker behind Ram Trucks, announced a delay in the all-electric pickup’s launch, pushing it back to 2026. The company cites softening demand for fully electric trucks in the half-ton segment as the primary reason for the shift, as stated in their official press release (Stellantis North America, December 18, 2024). Originally slated for a first-half-of-2025 release, the Ram 1500 REV joins a growing list of electric vehicles facing production delays or adjustments.
Ramcharger Takes Center Stage
In a surprising twist, Stellantis will prioritize the launch of the Ram 1500 Ramcharger, an extended-range electric truck boasting a targeted range of up to 690 miles. This extended range is achieved through a unique (yet not entirely new) approach: combining a 92 kilowatt-hour battery pack with an on-board 130 kW gas-powered generator. This information was confirmed by Stellantis in their press release.
This prioritization reflects a broader trend within the legacy auto industry. Several automakers, including Ford and GM, have faced slower-than-anticipated demand for high-priced electric vehicles. This has led to production slowdowns and even divestments, as seen with GM selling one of its battery factories to LG Energy Solutions.
Consumer Interest Drives Ramcharger Push
According to Stellantis, the decision to prioritize the Ramcharger stems from “overwhelming consumer interest,” as highlighted in their official announcement. Pre-orders for the Ramcharger are expected to open in the first half of 2025, followed by the Ram 1500 REV launch in 2026.
How Does the Ramcharger Work?
Unlike a hybrid truck, the Ramcharger features a 92-kWh battery with a portion of that contributing to an estimated 145 miles of electric range. This battery is complemented by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that functions as a 130 kW gas generator. The engine generates mechanical power that’s then sent to the generator, which is directly mounted. This generator converts the mechanical power into electricity, which can be used for two purposes: charging the battery pack or powering the two electric drive modules (EDMs). EDMs, which combine the motor, gearbox, inverter, and all-wheel-drive capability, are located on both the front and rear axles. The Ramcharger also boasts vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-home bi-directional charging capabilities.
The result, according to Ram engineers, is a powerful truck capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.4 seconds. It’s also expected to generate a significant 663 horsepower and over 615 lb-ft of torque. The Ramcharger is also targeting best-in-class towing of up to 14,000 pounds with a class 5 hitch, and a best-in-class maximum payload capacity of 2,625 pounds.
Production Plans Remain Steady
Stellantis assures that its Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan will continue to be the primary production hub for Ram 1500 trucks, encompassing both electric and internal combustion engine models.
Looking Ahead: Ram’s Electrified Future
The delay of the Ram 1500 REV is a noteworthy development in the electric truck landscape. While the Ramcharger’s extended range may appeal to certain segments of the truck market, its reliance on a gas generator presents a unique approach to electrification. Whether this approach resonates with consumers and aligns with long-term EV trends remains to be seen. One thing’s for certain: Ram’s commitment to electrification remains on track, albeit with a revised roadmap.
(Source: Stellantis North America Press Release, December 18, 2024)
