Ramcharger May Prove EREVs are the Next Big Thing

According to PitchBook’s Consumer Technology Outlook, released December 18, 2024, extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are expected to become the fastest-growing drivetrain category in Western automobile markets by 2025. EREVs are electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with an onboard gasoline or diesel generator, which acts as a range extender, providing additional power when the vehicle’s electric battery is depleted. This hybrid system helps address the common concern of limited driving range that electric-only vehicles face, making EREVs an appealing option for consumers who are looking for the environmental and cost-saving benefits of EVs but are also concerned about range anxiety.

The growth of the EREV category reflects a broader shift toward hybrid technologies as automakers seek to balance the benefits of electric drivetrains with the convenience of traditional internal combustion engines. As consumers and manufacturers continue to embrace cleaner technologies, these vehicles could play a crucial role in the transition to a more sustainable automotive market.

What’s an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle?

Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are gaining traction, particularly in China, where they are becoming the fastest-growing propulsion system for cars. Unlike battery electric vehicles (BEVs), EREVs are a type of plug-in hybrid (PHEV), but with a key distinction: in an EREV, only the electric motor drives the wheels, while the internal combustion engine (ICE) functions solely as a generator to recharge the battery when needed, rather than directly powering the wheels. This design allows for both a smaller battery and a more compact gas engine, contributing to lower manufacturing costs.

In terms of performance, EREVs offer a compelling balance. While they rely on electricity for most driving, the gas engine recharges the battery when it is depleted, extending the vehicle’s range significantly. Notably, in China, the Li Auto LI L6 SUV EREV has become a top-selling vehicle, with a typical range exceeding 350 miles. Some Chinese automakers, like BYD, have pushed the boundaries even further, with models offering a combined gas and electric range of up to 1,300 miles.

Another advantage of EREVs in markets like China is their affordability. On average, an EREV is priced about $4,220 less than a comparable battery electric vehicle (BEV). This price difference, combined with their extended range and lower cost of ownership, has made EREVs increasingly popular in the Chinese market, contributing to their rapid growth in sales.

The All-New Ram 1500 Ramcharger is a groundbreaking EREV pickup truck designed to offer exceptional performance and efficiency. It features a liquid-cooled 92-kilowatt-hour battery pack paired with a 130-kilowatt generator, along with a 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine that generates mechanical power. This power is converted into electrical energy by the onboard generator, ensuring optimal efficiency. Additionally, the generator can provide extra power to the motor and gearbox when more intense performance is required, making the Ramcharger ideal for demanding tasks.

In terms of performance, the Ram 1500 Ramcharger sets new standards for electric pickup trucks. It boasts an impressive 690-mile driving range, the longest in its class, allowing for longer trips without the need for frequent recharging. The truck delivers 663 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque, providing substantial power for a variety of uses. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, demonstrating its speed and responsiveness.

Additionally, the Ramcharger offers best-in-class towing capability of 14,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 2,625 pounds, making it an excellent choice for both heavy-duty towing and carrying substantial loads. These impressive specifications position the Ram 1500 Ramcharger as a game-changer in the world of electric pickup trucks, combining cutting-edge electric technology with the power and capability expected from a full-size truck.

The price of the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Hybrid is expected to start around $60,000 and go up to $78,000 depending on the trim and options. Car and Driver reported the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger will be available to order in the first half of 2025, while the Ram 1500 REV is slated to go on sale in 2026. Both trucks are reported to be built in Ram’s factory in Sterling Heights, Michigan, alongside the rest of the brand’s half-ton lineup.