Ram 1500 REV Electric Ute: Delayed Launch and Exciting Features
The highly anticipated Ram 1500 REV electric ute and its range-extender counterpart, the Ramcharger, are now scheduled for a 2025 US launch, marking a delay from the previously announced late-2024 timeline. Despite the setback, the Ram 1500 REV remains poised to make a significant impact in the growing electric ute market.
Why the Delay?
Stellantis, Ram's parent company, attributed the delay to a cautious approach in product validation and the immense workload involved in developing the vehicles.
- CEO Carlos Tavares explained the need for "prudence" to ensure the highest standards in execution amid challenges facing the automotive industry.
- This announcement follows similar delays from competitors, such as Ford’s F-150 Lightning, which halted production for six weeks in late 2024 to balance sales and profitability.
Built on the STLA Frame Platform
Both the Ram 1500 REV and the Ramcharger are based on Stellantis’s new STLA Frame platform, purpose-built for large vehicles and offering exceptional versatility:
- Powertrain Options: Supports internal combustion, range-extender, full-electric, hydrogen fuel-cell, and petrol-electric hybrid systems.
- Capabilities:800km EV range on select models.1.2-tonne payload capacity and up to 6350kg towing capacity.400- and 800-volt architectures with 350kW DC fast charging, enabling rapid recharge times.
- 800km EV range on select models.
- 1.2-tonne payload capacity and up to 6350kg towing capacity.
- 400- and 800-volt architectures with 350kW DC fast charging, enabling rapid recharge times.
Ram 1500 REV Highlights
The 1500 REV blends familiar styling with groundbreaking technology:
- Battery Options:Launching with a 168kWh pack, surpassing rivals like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Tesla Cybertruck, and Rivian R1T.A 229kWh extended-range battery, debuting in 2026, will offer 800km range unladen—the largest battery capacity of any electric vehicle to date.
- Launching with a 168kWh pack, surpassing rivals like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Tesla Cybertruck, and Rivian R1T.
- A 229kWh extended-range battery, debuting in 2026, will offer 800km range unladen—the largest battery capacity of any electric vehicle to date.
- Design: Maintains the bodywork of the petrol-powered Ram 1500, with unique front and rear styling.
- Variants: Available in five trims—Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited, and Tungsten.
Introducing the Ram 1500 Ramcharger
The Ramcharger takes the REV platform a step further by incorporating a range-extender powertrain:
- 3.6-litre V6 Engine: Acts as a generator to recharge the battery on the go.
- Battery and Power:Equipped with a 92kWh battery and a 130kW generator.Produces 494kW and 834Nm of system output from dual electric motors.Accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds.
- Equipped with a 92kWh battery and a 130kW generator.
- Produces 494kW and 834Nm of system output from dual electric motors.
- Accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds.
This setup ensures extended driving capabilities without the need for frequent charging stops, making the Ramcharger ideal for long-haul or off-grid use.
Future of Stellantis Platforms
The STLA Frame platform is just one of five architectures Stellantis is rolling out as part of its electrification strategy:
- STLA Small and Medium: Designed for compact and midsize vehicles in Europe, derived from existing Peugeot and Citroën platforms.
- STLA Large: Targeted at North America, debuting with the new Dodge Charger and Jeep Wagoneer S.
Australian Availability
While the Ram 1500 REV could potentially be converted to right-hand drive for the Australian market, there’s no official confirmation yet. However, the possibility of offering such an advanced electric ute Down Under is likely to generate significant interest.
Looking Ahead
The Ram 1500 REV and Ramcharger represent a bold step into the future of electric utility vehicles, offering innovative features, impressive range, and unmatched versatility. Despite the delay, these models are set to challenge rivals like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck, making them worth the wait for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
As we approach the 2025 launch, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Ram’s electric revolution. Stay tuned for updates on pricing, availability, and performance specifications!