Ram has unveiled its updated 2025 Ram 1500 (DT) lineup, featuring the all-new Ram 1500 Ramcharger. Previously referred to as the Ram 1500 REV XR, this model represents a significant advancement in electric pickup technology, addressing current market challenges.
So, how does this electrified Ram 1500 differ from the new Ram 1500 REV?
The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger boasts a cutting-edge performance system, combining a liquid-cooled 92 kWh battery pack with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with a 130 kW generator. This powertrain drives 250-kW front and 238-kW rear Electric Drive Modules (EDMs), which integrate the motor, gearbox, and inverter, and enable all-wheel-drive capability. Notably, the front EDM features an automatic wheel-end disconnect for enhanced efficiency under specific conditions, allowing the front wheels to rotate freely. Additionally, the rear axle houses a second EDM, complemented by an optional electronic-locking rear differential.
The power flow is orchestrated sequentially: the Pentastar V6 engine powers the onboard 130 kW generator, converting mechanical power to electrical energy. This electrical power serves multiple purposes, from recharging the battery when depleted to augmenting the high-voltage bus where the EDMs draw power to propel the vehicle. Notably, there is no direct mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels.
The Pentastar V6 engine is custom-tailored for its role as a generator, with specialized packaging to accommodate the front EDM. The onboard generator is directly mounted to the engine, while a power inverter module is situated on the vehicle and linked to a junction box.
The 92-kWh battery pack, benefiting from liquid cooling, is ingeniously designed in a parallel configuration using pouch cell technology. Positioned beneath the truck’s floor in the center, it preserves a flat cargo area. Ram offers a convenient recharging solution, allowing for an impressive 50 miles of all-electric range in just about 10 minutes with 400-volt DC fast charging up to 145 kW.
Performance-wise, the Ramcharger aims for a swift 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, delivering a remarkable 663 horsepower and over 615 lb.-ft. of torque. It also leads its class with an impressive towing capacity of up to 14,000 lbs. using a class 5 hitch, and a best-in-class maximum payload capacity of 2,625 lbs.
What Lies Underneath…
The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger is built on the cutting-edge STLA Frame platform, purpose-designed for full-size electric vehicles with a body-on-frame architecture. This new platform incorporates advanced materials, balancing lightweight construction, stiffness, and durability. Notably, the frame is wider in the middle to seamlessly integrate the battery pack while ensuring enhanced protection from the frame rails.
The driving experience is elevated with class-leading ride quality and handling, thanks to a multi-link independent rear suspension with a standard, segment-exclusive, active-level, four-corner air suspension system. This adjustable air suspension offers five distinct modes: Entry/Exit, Aero, Normal, Off-Road 1, and Off-Road 2.
The Ramcharger also boasts an impressive Autonomous Drive Assist System (ADAS) with features like Hands-free Highway Assist (L2+), enabling hands-off driving at all speeds and lane centering on approved roadways. It includes predictive speed reduction in tight curves, seamless driver override, and ensures the driver remains attentive. The truck also offers autonomous parallel and perpendicular parking assist, leveraging a suite of sensors, including radars and cameras, for precise maneuvering.
A Blended Exterior Design…
In terms of exterior design, the Ramcharger seamlessly blends elements from the gas-powered Ram 1500 and the Ram 1500 REV all-electric vehicle. It exudes Ram’s signature bold presence with a modern aesthetic, featuring a forward-leaning grille with distinctive R-A-M badging. The front fascia, in body color, sets it apart from the rest of the light-duty lineup while retaining Ram’s iconic design elements.
A distinct body-side character line creates a cohesive horizontal profile, connecting the front, cab doors, and bed fenders. The bed and cab are designed to reduce aerodynamic disruption. The charge port is thoughtfully located on the driver’s side front quarter panel, with the R-A-M badge pulsating to indicate charging status. An audible signal confirms that charging has commenced. The charge port accommodates both Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging on the top half, and DC fast charging on the bottom half.
At the rear, the Ramcharger boasts an all-new power tailgate and a contemporary R-A-M badge exclusive to the lineup. The rear features a unique, premium LED taillight design for electric Ram trucks.
The truck bed remains highly functional and can accommodate large items like plywood and drywall. The Ramcharger also offers the segment’s premier lockable bed storage with the innovative RamBox, which includes a 115-volt outlet. This illuminated, weatherproof, and versatile storage solution is equipped with drain plugs for added convenience.
No Comprise Interior Design…
The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger continues the tradition of setting the standard for pickup truck interiors, offering comfort and durability with premium, authentic materials. The interior design team has meticulously curated a palette of premium textures, colors, and materials, elevating functionality to unexpected levels of luxury. Elements like carbon fiber, metal accents, and supple leather combine to create a level of opulence that defines the Ram truck experience.
The cabin hosts cutting-edge technology features, including the advanced Uconnect 5 system with a stunning 14.5-inch touchscreen, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. A segment-leading 10.25-inch passenger screen, digital rearview mirror, Head-up Display (HUD), and an awe-inspiring Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system enhance the driving experience.
Additional refinements include an e-shifter with intuitive P/R/N/D functionality, featuring new buttons for eco mode, e-save, and electric+. Regen buttons choose between normal and max regen, enabling one-pedal driving. A redesigned starter button now boasts an illuminated power symbol. For added convenience, a push-button trailer steering knob and an accessory switch bank, integrated with the 14.5-inch touchscreen, provide easy access to essential functions.
Performance-tuned software empowers drivers to select from five dynamic modes – Auto, Sport, Tow, Snow, and Off-Road – each tailored to specific driving needs and environmental conditions. These modes individually govern the drive system, accelerator response, regen level, suspension, and steering.
The new Ram 1500 Tungsten trim exemplifies ultra-premium craftsmanship while honoring the hardworking ethos of the Ram 1500. Its Indigo/Sea Salt interior boasts platinum patina/semi-bright dual-textured metal accents with intricate diamond knurling. A suede-wrapped headliner, A- and B-pillars, and visors exude luxury. At the same time, the heated and ventilated premium quilted Natura Plus leather seats offer a host of adjustments, including 24-way power, memory settings, and a massage function. Power lumbar support and four-way powered headrests further enhance comfort.
Tungsten’s attention to detail is evident in features such as the inlaid metal lettering and diamond-knurled Tungsten badge on the center console, proudly displaying the vehicle identification number (VIN). Brushed platinum patina aluminum litho bezels, a distinctive crystal-effect shifter center cap, and a state-of-the-art Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system with 23 speakers contribute to the exceptional quality and appearance of the interior.
Redefining Technology…
Some notable highlights of the Uconnect 5 system include:
- 12- and 14.5-inch reconfigurable touchscreen displays with split-screen capability for dual application operation. These touchscreens utilize Full Array Local Dimming technology, resulting in a higher contrast ratio than conventional edge-lit screens.
- A new 10.25-inch passenger screen, exclusively visible to the front passenger, featuring dynamic touchscreen controls. It serves three primary functions: co-pilot duties such as navigation and device management, entertainment through HDMI connectivity, and the ability to view exterior vehicle cameras.
- EV Pages that provide critical information:
- Power Flow: visualizes the power distribution throughout the vehicle in kilowatts (kW).
- Range Impact: offers guidance on reducing energy consumption and maximizing range.
- Driving History: presents a power/charge bar chart displaying energy usage and regeneration over various intervals.
- Charge Schedules: allows users to select the optimal charging timetable.
- Max Battery Level: provides the option of an 80% charge for daily or towing needs, optimized for battery performance, or a 100% charge for long-distance travel.
- Charging Level.
- The Driver’s Digital Cluster Display encompasses one-pedal driving capabilities that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop. Additional EV gauges include current power, regen (regenerative braking), and estimated range.
- A full-color HUD, customizable up to 10 inches, presenting multiple content areas simultaneously, including Lane Departure, Lane Keep Assist, adaptive cruise control, turn-by-turn navigation, current speed, current gear, and speed limit information. All HUD settings can be personalized and saved within driver profiles.
- Tailored to the Ram 1500 Ramcharger’s electric capabilities, the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster introduces a new screen displaying charge schedules, estimating charge times for both Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, as well as one-pedal driving. It offers a comprehensive menu with nearly two dozen options, encompassing driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control, active driving assist, drowsy driver detection, and speed limit traffic sign display.
Furthermore, Ram owners can now enjoy the convenience of a digital key, accessible via their smartphone or watch. By enrolling in Ram Connect and downloading the Ram app, users can create and store digital keys in their smartphone’s wallet, enabling them to access and start their vehicle without removing the phone from their pocket. Digital keys can also be shared with other compatible devices, while owners maintain full control over access. As a backup, an NFC-based smart card is provided, allowing vehicle unlocking and startup in instances where the smartphone is not available. This digital key option provides increased flexibility in how owners access and utilize their Ram 1500 Ramcharger. Traditional key fobs remain standard, offering an additional layer of convenience.
So, What Is The Point?
Many might question the choice of an electric truck like the Ram 1500 Ramcharger, especially when it incorporates an internal combustion engine (ICE) as a generator. Wouldn’t it be simpler to stick with a traditional Ram 1500? The answer lies in addressing a common concern – range anxiety, which often plagues purely electric pickups. The Ramcharger is a pioneering solution to this issue by eliminating worries about towing capacity and long-distance travel. It does so by seamlessly transitioning between electric power for local commuting during the week and utilizing the generator for extended journeys.
The key advantage of the Ram 1500 Ramcharger lies in its ability to offer the best of both worlds: the environmental benefits of electric power and the peace of mind that comes with extended range when needed. This dual-mode functionality provides versatility that conventional half-ton trucks can’t match. By plugging in at home, drivers can enjoy emission-free, cost-effective driving for their daily routines. Simultaneously, they can embark on long-distance journeys without the constraints typically associated with purely electric vehicles.
In addition to addressing range anxiety, the Ram 1500 Ramcharger offers another substantial advantage in the form of increased towing capability. With an impressive maximum towing capacity of 14,000 lbs., it outperforms the conventional Ram 1500 ICE models. These traditional models are set to have a maximum towing capacity capped at 11,560 lbs., marking a 1,190 lb. decrease from the outgoing 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 models. This highlights that the Ramcharger not only addresses concerns about range but also enhances its overall towing performance, making it a compelling choice for a wide range of truck enthusiasts.
As for the question of cost, it’s essential to consider that plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have historically offered a more budget-friendly entry into the world of electric vehicles than full-fledged electric pickups. The Ramcharger presents a promising opportunity to access the benefits of all-electric driving without sacrificing range, potentially making it a cost-effective choice. However, the ultimate success of this new model will depend on various factors, including government regulations and the broader adoption of electric vehicle technology in our daily lives.
The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is set to offer a diverse range of trim levels to cater to varying preferences and needs. These options span from the practical and work-ready Tradesman to the top-of-the-line ultra-premium Tungsten model. Anticipated to debut in 2025, specific pricing details will be announced closer to the launch date. However, for those eager to secure their place in line, Ram has opened pre-ordering slots on RamREV.com for a deposit of $100 USD. This allows enthusiasts to be among the first to experience the groundbreaking Ram 1500 Ramcharger upon its release.
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