Stellantis, the Franco-Italian automotive powerhouse, has recently announced a delay for the eagerly awaited Ram electric pickup trucks, pushing the launch from this year to the first half of 2025. This postponement has raised eyebrows within the automotive community, especially among those eager for the new generation of electric vehicles (EVs) amid growing competition. The Ram 1500 REV, alongside the Ramcharger extended-range model, is set to debut on Stellantis' new STLA Frame platform, which integrates capabilities for gasoline, hybrids, and full electric vehicles.
Chief Executive Officer Carlos Tavares addressed the media during an online event, emphasizing the company's commitment to quality assurance. "We are just facing a very significant amount of workload, and we want to be very prudent in the way we validate the products. It’s important to take our time and make sure we manage the peak,” Tavares explained, highlighting the need to prioritize product validation over rapid rollout.
The upcoming electric pickups mark Stellantis' first major entry aimed directly at the growing electric truck market, which is led by competitors like Ford and Tesla. The Ford F-150 Lightning has already made waves, and the Tesla Cybertruck is on the horizon. By delaying the launch, Stellantis aims to fine-tune the vehicles to meet high expectations.
Initially scheduled for late 2024, the Ram 1500 REV and Ramcharger were expected to leverage the cutting-edge STLA Frame platform, which is described by the company as multi-energy capable. This means it can support internal combustion engines, hybrid technology, and various configurations for battery electric models. The platform is anticipated to deliver up to 500 miles of range and utilizes innovative design elements focused on efficiency.
While Tavares indicates the company is working diligently on the electric trucks, he acknowledged other projects—namely the Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S EVs—which are set for release by the end of this year. The strategy appears to prioritize these existing models before fully transitioning efforts to the Ram series.
Stellantis' roadmap indicates ambitious plans to ramp up electric vehicle offerings, poised to achieve 50% electric passenger car and light-duty truck sales by 2030 within the U.S. market. This is particularly significant as global trends shift toward electrification, driven by environmental concerns and consumer demand.
The Ram 1500 REV is promised to deliver notable capabilities, with expectations of class-leading range potentially reaching 690 miles for the Ramcharger variant. The integration of characteristics from combustion engines could offer customers greater flexibility, ensuring usability during longer trips where charging stations may be sparse.
The challenges Stellantis faces are compounded by shifting political landscapes around EV incentives. Incoming political figures like President-elect Donald Trump have signaled intentions to roll back various incentives supporting electric vehicle adoption. Reports suggest Trump's transition team may eliminate the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicle buyers, which could impact consumer enthusiasm and uptake.
Despite this uncertainty, Tavares stated their intention to adapt to whatever regulatory environment emerges. "We will adapt. We want to be prepared for the next generation of vehicles,” said Tavares, displaying confidence amid industry fluctuations.
The automotive industry as a whole seems to be grappling with demand forecasting, as some manufacturers have aggressively ramped up production capabilities, only to see slower-than-expected demand for electric models. Stellantis is now aligning its operations with the reality of fluctuated buyer interest, refining its planning process to balance production with market needs.
The STLA Frame platform will not only be limited to electric trucks but will also support models utilizing hydrogen and plug-in hybrid technology. At launch, the Ram 1500 variants will boast various configurations, including different battery sizes, with the largest set at 229 kWh expected to hit the market by 2026, ensuring the Ram brand continues to innovate.
Starting with five distinct variants—Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited, and Tungsten—the REV and Ramcharger are built to appeal to diverse consumers, from work-focused to luxury-oriented buyers. The strategic position within Stellantis' portfolio could potentially rejuvenate sales figures during challenging market conditions.
While Stellantis’ shares have suffered, dipping around 40% this year, the automaker’s shift toward electrification is seen as necessary for its long-term survival. With impressive towing capacities and impressive payload options, the revival of the Ram brand within the EV segment is pivotal.
Undoubtedly, the progression toward electric vehicles will require adaptability, swift decision-making, and perhaps most significantly, time to refine not only products but also consumer perceptions of electric capabilities versus traditional combustion engines. With excitement brewing for the Ram 1500 REV, all eyes will be on Stellantis as they navigate these turbulent waters and aim to re-establish themselves as leaders within the electric truck market.
