Ram has announced its new lineup for the next generation Ram 1500 pickup, which will feature three gas engines, the previously announced Ram REV battery-electric truck, and the all-new Ramcharger model. This marks the first time that Ram has confirmed the Ramcharger model.
The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger will be a plug-in series hybrid, powered by a 92-kWh battery that will provide up to 145 miles of range. To extend the range, a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine will act as a generator, charging the battery and adding an additional 545 miles of range, for a total range of 690 miles. The engine can deliver 130 kW (174 hp) of continuous output or 190 kW (253 hp) of peak output. It is not yet clear how the engine will run to charge the battery, including at what revs and how often it will operate. The front motor can be disconnected for improved efficiency.
The Ramcharger will be built on the new ladder-frame STLA Frame platform, which it shares with the Ram REV. However, the platform will be modified to accommodate the front engine in the Ramcharger. The battery will be located in the middle of the frame, in front of a 27-gallon gas tank. The design of the hybrid system is similar to that of the Chevrolet Volt, with the engine acting solely as a generator to charge the battery, and the battery always supplying power to the wheels.
In terms of suspension, the Ramcharger will feature a short-long arm geometry up front with cast-aluminum lower control arms, a multilink independent rear suspension, adaptive dampers, and air springs with up to five inches of ground clearance. It will also be equipped with sturdier LT tires mounted on 8-lug wheels.
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The Ramcharger will offer impressive performance with a 250-kW motor at the front axle and a 238-kW motor at the rear, providing all-wheel drive and a total of 663 hp and 615 lb-ft of torque. According to Ram, the Ramcharger will be capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, with a payload capacity of 2,625 pounds and a towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds.
Drivers will have the option to choose between normal, max-regen, or one-pedal driving modes through a switch on the steering wheel. The powertrain will offer three drive modes: Electric+, E-Save, and Eco. Electric+ mode uses power from the battery and works in conjunction with the engine-generator. The first 145 miles will be electric-only, after which the engine will come on to charge the battery. E-Save mode runs the engine to charge the battery, while Eco mode prioritizes electric-only driving for maximum efficiency. Ram will also provide a range of other driving modes, including Auto, Sport, Snow, Tow, and Off-road.
The Ramcharger will come with a 12-volt battery to prevent radio interference. Its lithium-ion battery can charge at a rate of 11.0 kW on a 240-volt outlet or add 50 miles of range in just 10 minutes on a DC fast-charger. The vehicle also supports bidirectional charging, allowing it to provide power to other vehicles or even a home. Additionally, a power panel in the bed of the truck can provide power for tools, with a rate of 3.8 kW for 110-volt items and 7.2 kW for 240-volt items.
The styling of the Ramcharger is reminiscent of the Ram REV, with LED headlights extending into the grille and taillights that extend into the tailgate, creating a unique light signature.
Though Ram has not yet released details about the full model lineup, it has confirmed that the Ramcharger will be available in the top-end Tungsten trim level, which will offer luxurious features for customers who desire the highest level of luxury in their trucks. Each Ramcharger will come equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch portrait-style center touchscreen, and an optional 10.3-inch front passenger screen.
Safety features include two active driver-assist systems, one of which requires the driver’s hands to remain on the steering wheel, and another that allows for limited hands-free driving while still requiring the driver to pay attention to the road. The Ramcharger will also offer automatic parking.
The Ramcharger is expected to be available in late 2024 or early 2025. Pricing, a complete model lineup, and full equipment details will be released closer to the launch date. It remains to be determined if the Ramcharger will qualify for the EV federal tax credit.
