Stellantis recently revealed two formidable versions of its next-generation, full-sized pickup truck: a standard Ram 1500 and an electric Ram 1500 Ramcharger equipped with an onboard generator. These additions, coupled with the previously announced fully electric Ram 1500 REV, position Ram to boast one of the most diverse truck lineups for the 2025 model year.
The Ford F-150 Lightning pioneered the electric truck movement, outpacing the Tesla Cybertruck to market by a couple of years. General Motors is set to join the competition soon with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 EV and the GMC Sierra 1500 EV. Now, Ram is introducing another level of electrification beneath the fully electric version showcased earlier this year: the Ramcharger. This model incorporates motors powering the wheels and can be charged conventionally or self-charge using a V6 engine, reminiscent of the functionality in the Chevrolet Volt. Notably, there’s no direct mechanical link between the engine and the drive wheels. Combining both the charge and a full tank of gas, the Ramcharger pledges an impressive range of 690 miles.
Irrespective of the setup, both Ram models boast significant power, large screens, abundant creature comforts, and the latest cutting-edge features, detailed below.
The debut of the next-generation Ram 1500 is slated for the first quarter of 2024, followed by a 540-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine Ram 1500 arriving in the third quarter. Subsequently, the fully electric 1500 REV is anticipated by late 2024, followed by the extended-range Ramcharger in 2025. Pricing specifics and detailed specifications will be announced closer to their respective release dates.
Competing against models like Chevrolet Silverado 1500/Silverado EV, Ford F-150/F-150 Hybrid/F-150 Lightning, GMC Sierra 1500/Sierra EV, and Toyota Tundra, the powertrain options for the Ram lineup are extensive:
- 305-hp, 3.6-liter V6 engine; 8-speed automatic transmission; rear- or four-wheel drive
- 420-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine; 8-speed automatic transmission; rear- or four-wheel drive
- 540-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six; 8-speed automatic transmission; rear- or four-wheel drive
- 663-hp, dual electric motors; all-wheel drive; onboard gas generator
Price Range: Estimated between $48,000 to $82,000
Expected On-Sale Dates: Ram – Winter 2024; Ram REV – Fall 2024; Ramcharger – 2025
CR’s Insight
The Ram 1500 has long been recognized for its comfort and practicality. While all modern trucks are highly capable, the Ram stands out for its superior ride quality, driver comfort, and user-friendly controls. Amidst the surge of redesigns and the introduction of electric versions in the full-sized truck market, Ram aims to stay competitive with its robust powertrain options and advanced features. The focus remains on maintaining its other notable strengths.
The decision to skip a traditional hybrid in favor of an extended-range electric vehicle, complemented by an engine for on-the-go recharging, presents a pragmatic solution. This approach addresses range anxiety while facilitating towing capabilities, which can be challenging for a fully electric vehicle. However, activities such as heavy cargo hauling or substantial trailer towing can significantly impact the range. Even if halved, the range remains at a respectable 345 miles. Notably, the engine charges the truck while in operation, a feature to be scrutinized further during our testing.
The truck is brimming with innovative technical features. The anticipated exploration of innovations, such as the passenger-side infotainment screen and hands-free driving at all speeds (known as L2+), is eagerly awaited. Nevertheless, the absence of standard blind spot warning (BSW) on a truck of such magnitude surprises us.
Exterior Highlights
The Ram’s design evolution showcases a reshaped, forward-leaning grille and prominent LED headlamps as its noticeable alterations. The bold “RAM” badge on the front reinforces the truck’s identity. Similarly, the tailgate presents notable functionality enhancements, including the option to lower it via the key fob, offering added convenience. Its versatile split functionality (two-thirds and one-third) facilitates easier bed loading, particularly in confined spaces or when dealing with specific trailers.
The Ramcharger closely resembles the Ram 1500, featuring distinct taillights and badging. Following Ford’s strategy with the F-150 Lightning, Ram opts for evolutionary design continuity over the unconventional approach seen in Tesla’s Cybertruck.
Continued Features
The RamBox, providing lockable storage within the bed walls, persists, offering weatherproof storage for tools and emergency gear. Additionally, the bed features grooves for division, cleats, and a rail system for cargo security.
The Ram integrates an onboard power inverter, featuring two covered bed outlets to power camping gear and tools.
Available Exterior Colors
- Billet Silver
- Bright White
- Delmonico Red
- Diamond Black
- Flame Red
- Granite
- Hydro Blue
- Patriot Blue
Interior Insights
Drivers can now access the trucks using their smartphones as keys, allowing remote control of various functions like unlocking doors and starting the engine, especially useful when the key fob is unavailable. This functionality holds particular promise for commercial applications, ensuring access at job sites or in case of a misplaced key.
Once inside, the Ram showcases its commitment to the ongoing infotainment screen evolution. It boasts a digital driver’s instrument screen alongside a 12 or 14.5-inch center screen housing the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. While UConnect systems have been user-friendly in the past, the UConnect 5’s expanded features might pose a slight learning curve. Additionally, the passenger’s 10.25-inch touchscreen with entertainment, navigation, and exterior vehicle camera display is a noteworthy addition. This screen remains concealed from the driver and includes an HDMI port for external device connectivity, enabling internet browsing or video playback for the passenger.
To ensure the driver remains engaged, an available color head-up display projects essential information onto the windshield, including navigation directions, speed, speed limit, gear, and safety alerts.
Dual wireless phone chargers are available to keep devices powered during travel.
The Ramcharger adds information screens to monitor energy flow, battery level, consumption history, and offers “one-pedal driving,” allowing drivers to control acceleration and deceleration with the “gas” pedal, leveraging regenerative braking to significantly slow the vehicle upon pedal release.
The top-tier Tungsten trim level features a standard 1,228-watt Klipsch stereo with 23 speakers, brushed metal accents, a suede headliner, and highly customizable quilted-leather front seats offering 24-way adjustments, memory functions, massage settings, and both heating and ventilation capabilities. Various other trim levels like Laramie, Big Horn, Lone Star, and Rebel feature distinct upholstery and accents.
Performance Highlights
Historically, full-sized trucks have competed based on impressive horsepower, cargo capacity, and towing capabilities, a trend that continues with the Ram lineup.
The base engine retains the familiar 305-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 found in the current truck and various other Stellantis models, known
