Stellantis Postpones Launch of Electric Ram Pickup Trucks to 2025

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
19/11/2024 19h09

Originally expected to hit the market this year, the launch has now been rescheduled to the first half of 2025. The decision comes as the automaker continues rigorous testing on the new vehicles.

Chief Executive Officer Carlos Tavares refrained from providing explicit reasons behind the delays or specific timelines during a media event on Tuesday. The planned electric trucks include an all-electric model named "REV" and another version, the "Ramcharger," which combines an electric generator with a gas engine.

“We are facing a significant workload and want to be prudent in validating our products. It's better to take extra time than to rush and compromise on quality,” Tavares affirmed. He also noted that current focus is on completing work for the Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S EVs, both expected to be released by the end of this year.

The new electric pickups will be the first constructed on Stellantis’ “STLA Frame platform,” which is designed for larger trucks and Jeep SUVs. This versatile platform supports multiple energy sources, ranging from internal combustion engines and hybrids to fully electric models, including those powered by batteries and fuel cells.

The Ramcharger, in particular, is an extended-range electric vehicle that operates as a zero-emissions EV until the battery is depleted. At that point, an onboard generator powered by a 27-gallon, 3.6-liter V6 engine takes over. Stellantis reaffirmed the REV’s capability of achieving 500 miles on a single charge, while the Ramcharger is expected to lead its class with a range of up to 690 miles.

Tavares mentioned a "huge product blitz" slated for the U.S. market in the coming months, though he acknowledged it comes at a challenging time. The automaker is bracing for potential policy shifts, with President-elect Donald Trump planning to lower or repeal many of the Biden administration's all-electric vehicle goals and funding. Specifically, the $7,500 consumer tax credit for EV purchases might be eliminated, affecting incentives for electric vehicle buyers.

Despite expressing criticism of government regulations on EVs, Tavares emphasized that Stellantis would adapt to any forthcoming changes under the Trump administration. The company remains committed to navigating these hurdles while moving forward with its ambitious electric vehicle plans.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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