The forthcoming Ram 1500 pickup aims to implement a comprehensive approach, incorporating a refreshed range of three gas engines, the anticipated Ram REV battery-electric truck, and the innovative Ramcharger model. The latter will seamlessly integrate a battery system and an engine-generator, ensuring sustained battery power and extended driving distance.
In contrast, the Ram REV, an all-electric vehicle, will provide customers with the option to select between two battery capacities, 168 or 229 kWh, while the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger will function as a plug-in series hybrid, equipped with a 92-kWh battery enabling around 145 miles of range. Additionally, it will incorporate a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that serves as a generator, delivering an additional 545 miles for a notable total range of 690 miles.
Constituting integral components of an electric drive unit, each motor, along with the gearbox and power electronics, can generate either a continuous output of 130 kW (174 hp) or a peak output of 190 kW (253 hp). Yet, specific operational details about the engine’s charging mechanism, including the revolutions per minute and frequency, remain undisclosed by Ram, although the option to disconnect the front motor exists to optimize efficiency.
Built upon the newly introduced STLA Frame platform, the Ramcharger shares its framework with the Ram REV but will undergo minor modifications to accommodate the front engine. The battery, centrally positioned within the frame, will be placed in front of a 27-gallon gas tank, a strategic design choice to maintain the engine’s sole focus on recharging the battery, preventing any direct link to the wheels.
With its cutting-edge suspension system, the Ramcharger will boast a front short-long arm geometry, integrating cast-aluminum lower control arms, and a multilink independent rear suspension, complete with adaptive dampers and air springs, allowing for a versatile adjustment of ground clearance by as much as five inches, while the truck will be outfitted with durable LT tires firmly secured on eight-lug wheels.
Propelled by a 250-kW motor in the front axle and a 238-kW motor in the rear, the Ramcharger will feature all-wheel drive, delivering a combined power of 663 hp and 615 lb-ft of torque, which translates to remarkable performance, including a rapid 0-60 mph acceleration in just 4.4 seconds, a substantial payload capacity of 2,625 pounds, and the capability to tow loads weighing up to 14,000 pounds.
Giving drivers the flexibility to choose from normal, max-regen, or one-pedal driving modes via a convenient switch on the steering wheel, the Ramcharger will also feature adjacent buttons to the electronic shifter, offering three distinct powertrain drive modes: Electric+, E-Save, and Eco.
Operating in the Electric+ mode, the Ramcharger will draw power from the battery, functioning in tandem with the engine-generator, initially relying solely on electric power for a distance of 145 miles, following which the engine will engage to replenish the battery.
Activating the E-Save mode will engage the engine in charging the battery while allowing the vehicle to continue its operation, whereas the Eco mode will prioritize highly efficient driving, focusing on electric-only propulsion and fine-tuning pedal mapping and climate control to maximize the vehicle’s overall range. Additionally, Ram will offer Auto, Sport, Snow, Tow, and Off-road driving modes for various driving conditions.
The Ramcharger features a 12-volt battery to mitigate radio interference and supports an 11 kW charging rate on a 240-volt outlet, while a DC fast charger can provide an extra 50 miles of range in just 10 minutes due to its 400-volt electrical system. The vehicle’s bidirectional charging capability enables vehicle-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-home charging, and the truck bed includes a power panel offering 3.8 kW for 110-volt tools and 7.2 kW for 240-volt devices like circular saws.
Its design closely mirrors that of the Ram REV, characterized by LED headlights extending into the prominent grille with horizontal elements and taillights seamlessly integrated into the tailgate, creating a distinctive lighting pattern.
Ram has not yet disclosed the complete model lineup, but they have confirmed that the Ramcharger will be available in the high-end Tungsten trim, catering to those seeking elevated luxury in their trucks. Every Ramcharger will come equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch portrait-style center touchscreen, and the option for a 10.3-inch front passenger screen.
For driver assistance, the Ramcharger offers two active systems: one necessitates the driver’s continuous interaction with the steering wheel, while the other allows limited hands-free driving, with both requiring the driver’s attention to the road. The vehicle also features an automatic parking function.
The Ramcharger is scheduled for release in late 2024 or early 2025, although Ram has not confirmed its eligibility for the EV federal tax credit. Further details on pricing, the full model lineup, and comprehensive specifications will be available closer to the launch date.
