Stellantis' Ram brand introduces the Ramcharger, a groundbreaking pickup truck that aims to alleviate "range anxiety" commonly associated with electric vehicles. With an impressive electric range of 145 miles, the Ramcharger features a 3.6-liter V6 gas-powered engine connected to a generator that can recharge the battery while the truck is in motion. This innovative powertrain offers a solution for consumers who require a truck for hauling or towing purposes.
The growth of electric vehicle sales has been slowing down, leading automakers to reconsider their significant investments in the transition from internal combustion to electric powertrains. Limited range, too few charging stations, and high costs are among the top reasons cited by consumers for their hesitation towards electric vehicles. Tim Kuniskis, the CEO of the Ram brand, acknowledges these concerns and believes that the Ramcharger addresses them effectively.
Stellantis, known for its slower introduction of fully electric vehicles in the United States, plans to expand the new powertrain to other vehicles. A tentative contract agreement with the United Auto Workers suggests that Stellantis intends to incorporate the same power system in the Jeep Wrangler small SUV in 2028, as well as the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer large SUVs in 2025.
The Ramcharger is expected to arrive in showrooms towards the end of the following year. Boasting 663 horsepower, the truck can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 4.4 seconds. Furthermore, with a fully charged battery and a full 27-gallon gas tank in the generator, the Ramcharger can achieve an impressive range of up to 690 miles. Additionally, the truck has a towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds, surpassing the current Ram pickup with a V8 engine.
Charging options for the Ramcharger include home charging and direct-current fast-charging stations, where the battery can gain approximately 50 miles of range in just 10 minutes. The truck's charging capabilities extend beyond powering the vehicle itself. With a two-direction home charging station, the Ramcharger can also provide power to homes during storms or tools on job sites.
While other companies offer gas-electric hybrid trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, the Ramcharger stands out due to its unique powertrain. The gas engine solely serves the purpose of generating electricity to charge the battery, rather than directly propelling the wheels.
Meeting upcoming U.S. government fuel economy and emissions requirements necessitates that over 20% of Ram sales be partially or fully powered by electricity. Stellantis aims to achieve this target and improve its fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standing, which was reported as the worst among major automakers by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2022.
The Ramcharger caters to a specific segment of truck shoppers who desire the performance of an electric vehicle without compromising on range or towing capabilities. Sam Abuelsamid, an analyst at Guidehouse Insights, highlights the importance of offering the Ramcharger at a reasonable price to attract consumers who have been deterred by the high prices of electric pickups from competitors such as Ford, General Motors, and Rivian. Abuelsamid views the Ramcharger as a compelling option that combines electric powertrain performance with the confidence to go on long trips and tow heavy loads, with the ability to refuel with gas as needed.
The demand for electric vehicles in the United States has begun to level off after experiencing significant growth in recent years. In August, electric vehicle sales accounted for 8.3% of the total market, with almost 111,000 units sold. However, in September, sales dropped to 7.9% of the market, with just under 106,000 units sold. Although there has been a year-over-year growth rate decline from 60% in August to 56% in September, analysts believe that the increasing inventory and dropping prices of electric vehicles contribute to a more stable market.
The Ramcharger is part of a refreshed lineup of Ram pickups set to debut in early 2023. Alongside the electric version, the trucks will also feature enhanced interiors, suspensions, and bodies, with a redesigned RAM badge positioned higher on the grille. Notably, the Ram 1500 pickup will offer a new optional twin-turbo 3-liter straight-line six-cylinder engine capable of delivering up to 540 horsepower, surpassing the performance of the Hemi V8 engine it replaces.
