Ram 1500 Ramcharger: Extended Range EV

author: FutureCar Staff    

Stellantis is set to introduce a new electric-propelled Ram truck that combines a large EV battery pack with a gasoline engine to offer extended range for long trips without frequent charging stops. The upcoming pickup, known as the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, claims to have a range of up to 690 miles on a full tank and charge.

The Ramcharger operates on dual electric motors, with a 250kW motor in the front and a 238kW motor in the rear, making it effectively an EV. However, in terms of functionality, it operates more like a plug-in hybrid. Similar to Chevy's discontinued Volt, which had around 50 miles of pure electric range before the gas engine kicked in, the Ramcharger functions in a similar manner. Essentially, it can be seen as a larger version of the Volt.

Despite its hybrid nature, the Ramcharger still offers the benefits of an EV, including fast acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. It can also cover significant distances on its 92kWh battery without using any gasoline. According to Car & Driver, the Ramcharger has a usable battery capacity of 70.8kWh and can travel up to 145 miles solely on electric power.

Unlike other all-electric pickup trucks, the Ramcharger does not feature a spacious front trunk. Instead, it houses a 3.6-liter V6 engine in the front, which activates when the battery is low. This engine powers a 130kW onboard generator that keeps the Ramcharger's electric motors running. It's important to note that the engine does not directly drive the powertrain. When running on gasoline, the truck has a power output of 174 horsepower, but with a charged battery, it can achieve a peak output of 663 horsepower, according to Stellantis.

Earlier this year, Stellantis also announced the Ram 1500 REV, a fully electric pickup with a much larger 229kWh battery that promises a range of 500 miles on a single charge. Despite the hybrid setup of the Ramcharger, both trucks have similar towing and payload capabilities. The Ramcharger is rated to tow up to 14,000 pounds and carry a payload of up to 2,625 pounds.

Currently, Ford is the only legacy automaker offering a work-oriented electric pickup truck on the market. However, when fully loaded, its driving range decreases significantly, from around 278 miles (as tested by AAA) to 210 miles, a reduction of almost 25 percent. To cover longer distances, it would require stops at electric vehicle chargers. In contrast, the Ramcharger has the advantage of being able to continue running on fossil fuels for extended periods.

Inside the Ramcharger, there is a focus on technology. It features a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a large 14.5-inch infotainment screen, and a 10.25-inch display for the passenger, which supports HDMI input for devices like video game consoles. The driver also benefits from a heads-up display and a digital rearview mirror. Owners can even use a digital key on their smartphone to unlock and start the vehicle, and there is also an NFC-based keycard available as a backup.

It's worth noting that despite having a gas engine, the Ramcharger is still a vehicle that relies on being charged. As long as the battery is kept charged, preferably at home, it can be used for short trips without the need to stop at gas stations. However, due to its large size and the weight of the battery, gas engine, and fuel tank, it may not be the most suitable option for a primary daily driver.

FutureCar Staff