After numerous delays, we are finally seeing the 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger testing on public roads. Shown in the ultra-premium Tungsten trim, this prototype was spotted testing outside the Chrysler Technical Center (CTC) in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Notably, the prototype was missing the expected 1500 Ramcharger badging, instead sporting a Ram 1500 eTorque badge on its hood.
What sets the Ramcharger apart from the standard Ram 1500 is a few different design elements. The first is the R-A-M text. There is a new text font that is exclusive to the electrified Ram pickups, which is less commercialized and more edgy. The R-A-M text on the grille is outlined with light. There are also 20-inch aerodynamic wheels with an 8-lug bolt pattern. The new R-A-M font is also added to the badging on the lower part of the front doors of the Ramcharger, and the Ramcharger also gets a different taillight design that is incorporated into the tailgate design, similar to the Ford F-150 Lightning.
Ram has engineered the 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger to set a new benchmark in range and capability. The Range-Extending Electric Vehicle (REEV) boasts an unprecedented targeted range of up to 690 miles, ensuring unparalleled convenience for drivers. It is powered by a 92-kilowatt-hour (kWh) liquid-cooled battery pack, supplemented by a 130-kW onboard generator paired with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This innovative powertrain delivers a combined output of 663 horsepower and 615 lb.-ft. of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds.
The Ramcharger is equipped with vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-home bi-directional charging capabilities, allowing it to power another Stellantis EV or serve as a backup power source for homes. An onboard power panel in the truck bed provides up to 7.2 kW of power, making it an excellent choice for tailgating, camping, or job site applications. The truck also supports 400-volt DC fast charging at up to 175 kW, adding up to 5 miles of all-electric range per minute.
Built on the STLA Frame platform, the Ramcharger features a body-on-frame design constructed from high-strength steel, ensuring both durability and lightweight efficiency. The multi-link independent rear suspension, coupled with a segment-exclusive, active-level, four-corner air suspension, offers five adjustable ride modes: Entry/Exit, Aero, Normal, Off-Road 1, and Off-Road 2. These features contribute to a smooth and controlled ride, enhancing the truck’s versatility across various terrains.
The exterior of the Ram 1500 Ramcharger incorporates modern design cues, including a forward-leaning grille, an aerodynamically optimized body, and an all-new power tailgate. The charge port, located on the driver’s side front quarter panel, features an illuminated, pulsating R-A-M badge to indicate charging status.
Inside, the Ramcharger redefines pickup truck luxury with an ultra-premium cabin featuring carbon fiber, metal, and leather materials. A host of cutting-edge technology includes:
Uconnect 5 system with a 14.5-inch touchscreen
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
10.25-inch passenger screen
Head-up Display (HUD)
Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system
The new Tungsten trim level also introduces a high-end experience with an Indigo/Sea Salt interior, semi-bright metal accents, quilted Natura Plus leather seats with 24-way power adjustment, and a massage function.
The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger is not just another pickup; it is a revolutionary entry into the segment, combining best-in-class towing capacity of 14,000 pounds, a maximum payload of 2,625 pounds, and an industry-leading range with innovative technology. With features such as Hands-free Highway Assist (L2+) and autonomous parking assist, the Ramcharger stands as a testament to Ram’s commitment to delivering disruptive, cutting-edge technology to its customers.
Robert S. Miller is a diehard Mopar enthusiast who lives and breathes all that is Mopar. The Michigander is not only the Editor for MoparInsiders.com, 5thGenRams.com, and HDRams.com but an automotive photographer. He is an avid fan of offshore powerboat racing, which he travels the country to take part in.
There was an interview with one of the chief engineers (Mr. Tolkacz) for the ReEV (RE-EV, EREV, ERBEV, or whatever flavor you want) and he spoke about the details of the vehicle. He also mentioned that he is driving on in the Metro Detroit area and suggested there are other fast-feedback vehicles.
Production schedules were planned for April start time for public production vehicles and run for about a month or so before switching over to 2026 model year. That appears to have changed given some of the '26 MY statements from leadership.
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