RAM 1500 EV, the electric pickup that drives farther than a diesel

The advantage of a pickup is that it has plenty of space to spare. Unveiled at the 2023 New York Auto Show, the RAM 1500 EV features XXL batteries, and its range is seriously impressive.

Contrary to what their sometimes monstrous appearance suggests, pickups are not as intimidating as they might seem. Their primary purpose is to transport and tow better than any car. They are also known for their durability, and their comfort has continually improved over the years. Moreover, many models from the United States have quickly adopted bioethanol E85 and LPG, making them more “green” in the eyes of the majority.

Today, a major pickup specialist, American RAM (the utility branch of Dodge, now part of Stellantis Group), is introducing a new model that will turn heads. The RAM 1500 EV aims to complement traditional combustion engines (remember the famed 5.9 Magnum V8), with a 100% electric offering that boasts very attractive technical specs.

Let’s start with the battery capacity. It boasts 229 kWh, a value never seen before on the market. A big battery means… great range! According to EPA standards used in the USA, the range of the RAM 1500 EV pickup would be 800 km. This standard is less optimistic than our WLTP, so we could dream of a range of about 850 km under European conditions.

For those who prefer a Paris-Avignon trip over Paris-Nice, know that an intermediate battery version is also planned. Its capacity is still 168 kWh, which would allow for a range of just under 600 km.

Very Fast Charging

What about recharging? Will you have to wait two days to charge your RAM 1500 EV? Powered by an 800 Volt platform, the US pickup is capable of charging at 350 kW. If you find ultra-fast charging stations, it could be possible to regain 175 km of range in less than 10 minutes.

For professionals, the RAM 1500 EV can tow up to 6.3 tons, and besides its huge bed, it also features a front trunk with a capacity of 425 liters.

And what about performance? The electric motors can develop up to 654 horsepower. A real powerhouse capable of accelerating the electric vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds.

No need to dig into your checkbook just yet. The RAM 1500 EV will not arrive at dealerships until the fourth quarter of 2024. But it may well become popular in Europe, where demand for this type of vehicle is high. Its competitors are already known: Ford F-150 Lightning, Hummer EV, and Tesla Cybertruck.

Also read: Comparison Test: Ford Kuga Hybrid FlexiFuel vs. Peugeot 3008 Hybrid 225