Stellantis, the transatlantic automaker, has announced a delay in the launch of its fully electric Ram pickup truck, pushing it from the end of this year to the first half of 2025. The decision comes as the company prioritizes rigorous testing to ensure product quality, according to CEO Carlos Tavares.
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During an online media event, Tavares refrained from providing specific details about the delay but emphasized that the postponement was necessary for the vehicle’s final validation. “We are facing a very significant amount of workload, and we want to be very prudent in the way we validate the products. It’s better to take a few more weeks to validate properly than to rush and risk quality mistakes,” Tavares explained.
The Ram electric pickup was initially scheduled to launch by the end of this year, followed by the Ramcharger, a range-extended version with both an electric generator and a gas engine, in the first quarter of 2025. However, Stellantis has not provided an updated timeline for the Ramcharger’s release.
Tavares also noted that the company needs to complete work on other electric vehicles, including the Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S EV, both expected to debut by the end of this year, before turning its focus to the new trucks.
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Stellantis’ upcoming electric pickups will be the first built on the company’s new STLA Frame platform, designed for larger trucks and Jeep SUVs. This multi-energy platform supports internal combustion engines, hybrids, and fully electric models powered by batteries, fuel cells, and extended-range electric propulsion systems.
The Ramcharger, in particular, will operate as a zero-emissions electric vehicle until its battery depletes, at which point an onboard electric generator powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 27-gallon tank will take over to power the vehicle. Stellantis has reconfirmed that the Ram REV will have a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge, while the Ramcharger is expected to lead its class with a range of up to 690 miles.
“We are managing the peak of multiple product launches coming to the U.S. market in the next few months,” Tavares stated. “This is a huge product blitz, and we are being cautious to ensure everything meets our standards.”
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Stellantis’ push for electric vehicles in the U.S. comes at a challenging time, as President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to lower or repeal many of the Biden administration’s policies and funding for EVs. Reports indicate that Trump’s transition team is considering eliminating the $7,500 federal tax credit for EV purchases as part of broader tax reform efforts. This move aligns with Trump’s campaign promise to cut such incentives and EV programs.
Although Tavares has previously criticized government regulations for EVs, he has also recognized their benefits. In response to potential policy changes, he affirmed, “We will adapt to any new rules set by the Trump administration.”
Stellantis’ delay in launching the Ram electric truck underscores its commitment to quality in an increasingly competitive EV market. As the company leverages its new STLA Frame platform and prepares for multiple launches, it must navigate not only industry challenges but also shifting regulatory landscapes. Despite the obstacles, Stellantis aims to position itself as a key player in the evolving electric vehicle market.