Stellantis has taken significant strides forward with the recent unearthing of their STLA Frame platform, which is set to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) production for the company’s Jeep and Ram brands. This eagerly anticipated platform, unveiled on Tuesday, promises to deliver impressive specifications, positioning Stellantis to capture more of the booming EV market. With expectations of offering up to 500 miles of range and the ability to support various powertrains, the STLA Frame platform's launch is being hailed as a pivotal moment for the automaker.
The new platform will serve as the backbone for the next generation of all-electric models from Ram and Jeep, including the much-anticipated Ram 1500 REV and the Ram 1500 Ramcharger. Stellantis outlined ambitious goals for the STLA Frame, aiming to provide "best-in-class capabilities" across multiple metrics including towing capacity, payload ratings, and of course, range. The company has stated their target for the platform includes up to 14,000 lbs of towing capacity and payloads reaching 2,700 lbs.
At the core of the STLA Frame platform lies its sophisticated battery design, featuring liquid-cooled battery packs ranging from 159 kWh to over 200 kWh. Such extensive battery specifications are engineered to maximize performance and efficiency. The platform’s design will facilitate ultra-fast charging at up to 350 kW, allowing vehicles to replenish up to 100 miles of range within just ten minutes—a substantial benefit for users on the go.
Notably, the STLA Frame platform also supports bi-directional charging, enabling the vehicles not only to draw power from the grid but potentially to send it back as well. This could allow owners to use their EVs as temporary power sources for their homes, enhancing the utility of these vehicles significantly.
The first models planned to utilize the STLA Frame platform include the Ram 1500 REV, which will mark Ram’s debut electric pickup, and the Ramcharger, which is expected to deliver both electric and range-extended hybrid variants. Previously slated for late 2024, the launch of these models has been pushed to the first half of 2025, largely attributed to Stellantis taking the necessary time to validate the safety and performance standards of their new technology. CEO Carlos Tavares mentioned the challenges posed by the extensive workload as the company aims to transition effectively toward electrification.
The new platform is engineered with versatility at its core, making it suitable for various types of vehicles including traditional internal combustion engines, hybrid models, and hydrogen-powered vehicles, showcasing Stellantis's commitment to diversifying its electrification strategy alongside traditional motor vehicles.
Stellantis also revealed intriguing details about the dimensions of vehicles on the STLA Frame. Models are expected to range between 216 inches and 234 inches, aligning closely with the size specifications of existing models like the Ram 1500 Crew Cab. The vehicle widths will also vary, providing ample space for performance and comfort.
This is not Stellantis's first foray within the electric vehicle market. Earlier this year and last, the company released their STLA Medium and STLA Large platforms aimed at other segments of their vehicle lineup. Each platform is part of Stellantis's broader strategic vision to electrify their offerings, evidenced by continuing advancement with their battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).
If all goes as planned, we could see the first Jeep models utilizing this innovative platform within the near future, including the upcoming electrified Jeep Recon and the luxury Wagoneer S, both optimized for off-road performance and daily usability.
The market for full-size electric pickups is becoming increasingly competitive, with manufacturers like Ford and GM already making significant investments and launching their respective models. Stellantis, with the introduction of the STLA Frame platform, appears to be making well-calibrated moves to maintain its share within this lucrative market. With electric trucks and SUVs rising swiftly to take the forefront of consumer preferences, the success of the STLA Frame will be closely watched by industry analysts and enthusiasts alike.
While the excitement surrounding the STLA Frame platform builds, industry observers point out the need for Stellantis to effectively communicate the advantages of their vehicles compared to competitors. Continuous innovation will be key, but so will timing, as consumers' demand for high-performance electric trucks escalates.
Stellantis aims not only to compete but to lead the conversation about electric vehicle technology. The onus will be on them to deliver on their commitments and demonstrate the capabilities of the STLA Frame platform as they gear up for the next phase of automotive electrification.
Overall, as Stellantis unfurls their new STLA Frame platform, the eyes of the automotive world will undoubtedly focus on both the forthcoming models and the impacts they may have on the industry's progress toward electrification. Can Stellantis hit all the marks they have set out as they enter this new era? Only time will tell.
