Stellantis announced that it is renaming its Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) Ramcharger pickup to Ram 1500 REV. The company stated this vehicle would set a new standard in the half-ton segment by offering exceptional range, towing capability, and payload performance.
The name plate, however, will live on.
This decision came after CEO Carlos Tavares resigned following a significant decline in the automaker’s sales. Stellantis has faced criticism for devaluing its US brands and not introducing more affordable models.
Both the Ramcharger and the Rev were expected to utilize Stellantis’ STLA Frame body-on-frame platform, which can accommodate electric, gas, hybrid, and hydrogen powertrains. This platform would allow the Ramcharger gas-extended EV to achieve a range of up to 690 miles on a full charge and tank.
This year, Stellantis became the latest automaker to delay or abandon its EV plans, as the federal government removes tax credits and other incentives that spurred higher sales. Many automakers are postponing production plans, anticipating a decline in sales following the end of federal incentives.
Electrifying large, heavy trucks has proved challenging, as they need larger, heavier batteries than typical EVs, increasing costs for manufacturers. Sales for EV trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T, and Tesla Cybertruck have been slower than expected. Trucks also tend to lose range when towing or carrying heavy loads, making them less appealing to customers who expect their electric trucks to perform traditional truck functions.
