In a major strategic shakeup, Ram has officially scrapped its plans for an all-electric 1500 REV pickup—once touted as a rival to Ford’s F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet’s Silverado EV. The decision, announced by parent company Stellantis, reflects a growing sense of caution across the auto industry as full-size electric trucks face underwhelming demand and mounting technical hurdles.
But this isn’t a total retreat from electrification. Instead, Ram is shifting gears toward a more flexible solution: the Ramcharger, a range-extended hybrid pickup that combines electric driving with a gas-powered V6 generator. Interestingly, this model will now take on the “Ram 1500 REV” nameplate, even though it isn’t a pure battery-electric vehicle (BEV).
EV Dreams Delayed—Or Reimagined?
What started as a bold play to electrify America’s favorite vehicle segment has hit a roadblock. Stellantis cited “a reassessment of consumer demand” as the driving force behind its decision. According to company insiders, the appetite for fully electric trucks isn’t as robust as anticipated—especially in North America, where truck buyers continue to prioritize range, power, and utility.
The now-canceled electric Ram 1500 REV had been in the pipeline since early 2023, but delays kept piling up—from a 2025 target to 2026, and eventually mid-2027. Now, it’s off the table entirely.
What Is the Ramcharger (Now Called the Ram 1500 REV)?
At first glance, the rebranding may seem confusing. But here’s the breakdown: Ram is now putting its chips behind a series hybrid truck. The updated Ram 1500 REV—formerly known as the Ramcharger—uses a battery to power the wheels for daily electric driving. Still, it also includes a gasoline generator that kicks in when the battery runs low, effectively eliminating range anxiety.
This hybrid approach could resonate with traditional truck buyers who want the perks of electrification—like instant torque and quiet driving—without compromising on long-distance towing or refueling convenience.
Ram claims this model will set new benchmarks for towing, payload capacity, and real-world usability—critical metrics for the pickup segment.
Why Stellantis Pulled the Plug
This move isn’t just about one truck. It reflects deeper struggles within Stellantis’ electrification roadmap. Dodge and Jeep EVs have also received lukewarm responses, hampered by limited range and slow charging speeds. The auto giant is clearly recalibrating.
On top of that, battery costs remain stubbornly high, and technical challenges—especially when it comes to towing heavy loads—make full-size EV trucks a tough sell in today’s market. Unlike compact EVs designed for city driving, pickups are expected to haul, tow, and last for hundreds of miles—something current EV technology struggles with at scale.
And with U.S. fuel economy regulations less aggressive than in other regions, Stellantis doesn’t face the same urgency to go all-electric just yet.
Elsewhere in the Stellantis Universe…
- Cybersecurity Concerns: Stellantis recently reported a cybersecurity breach involving a third-party provider connected to its North American customer data. The company is currently assessing the full impact while working to secure its systems.
- Battery Breakthroughs: On a more optimistic note, Stellantis unveiled new-generation battery technology designed to reduce charging time and slash production costs—an essential step toward making EVs more accessible and profitable.
- Toyota’s Woven City Moves Forward: Over in Japan, Daisuke Toyoda is steering Toyota’s mysterious Woven City project—a high-tech, experimental community aimed at reimagining mobility, though details remain largely under wraps.
A Strategic Pivot—Or a Detour?
Ram’s decision to pivot from a full EV to a range-extended hybrid might be the sweet spot for today’s truck buyers. It offers a bridge between combustion and electric—delivering many benefits of EV tech without the limitations.
Still, critics argue this could signal a lack of confidence in Stellantis’ ability to compete in the fully electric arena. Whether this is a smart, consumer-focused decision or a step backward in the EV race remains to be seen.
For now, the Ram 1500 REV lives on—not as a symbol of electric revolution, but as a hybrid compromise in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
For more information about the Ramcharger, visit their official website.
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Hey, I’m Badal! I’m super passionate about cars—especially electric ones. Whether it’s EVs, electric trucks, bikes, or anything with a battery and wheels, I’m all in. I love writing blogs and articles that break things down for fellow enthusiasts and curious readers alike. Hope you enjoy the ride as much as I do!
