Stellantis Delays Electric Ram 1500 to 2027, Shifts Focus to Hybrid Ramcharger

Stellantis has postponed the launch of its all-electric Ram 1500 pickup to summer 2027, marking the second delay for the battery electric vehicle (BEV) initially unveiled in 2023, according to a memo to suppliers reported by Crain’s Detroit Business. The automaker is adjusting its strategy amid sluggish demand for electric half-ton pickups, prioritizing the extended-range hybrid Ramcharger, now set for a first-quarter 2026 launch.

Strategic Shift in Response to Market Trends

The electric Ram 1500, originally slated for 2024 and later 2026, will now debut as a 2028 model year. Stellantis cited slowing consumer interest in BEV pickups as a key factor, with spokeswoman Jodi Tinson stating, “Stellantis continues to reassess its product strategy in North America to align it with our competitive advantage with the Range Extended Ram and in light of slowing consumer demand for half-ton BEV pickups.” This delay reflects broader industry challenges, as electric vehicle (EV) sales have not met the high expectations set a few years ago.

In contrast, the Ramcharger, a range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), is being prioritized to meet market demand for flexible powertrain options. Its launch, initially planned for 2025, was pushed to early 2026 to extend the “quality validation period,” ensuring “the highest build quality for segment exclusive REEV technology,” Tinson noted. This hybrid approach allows Stellantis to hedge against EV market uncertainties while offering consumers varied options.

Production Flexibility at Sterling Heights

Stellantis’ decision to produce electric, hybrid, and gas-powered Ram 1500s at the same facility—the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan—sets it apart from competitors like Ford and GM. Last September, the automaker invested $235.5 million (approximately €222 million) to equip the plant for BEV production. This flexible manufacturing strategy minimizes financial risk, as volume lost from the electric Ram delay can be offset by increased hybrid or gas-powered output. Unlike Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center or GM’s Orion Assembly Plant, which are dedicated to electric pickups and now face underutilized capacity due to lower-than-expected sales, Stellantis’ approach cushions the blow for suppliers servicing multiple powertrain variants.

Implications for Suppliers and the EV Market

The delay poses challenges for suppliers contracted specifically for the electric Ram program, particularly those who invested in EV-specific components expecting a 2026 launch. While Stellantis’ integrated production model mitigates some impact for suppliers servicing gas and hybrid lines, manufacturers focused solely on BEV parts may face financial strain. The exact number of affected suppliers remains unclear, but such a significant delay—pushing the launch by over three years from its original timeline—is rare and underscores the unpredictable EV market.

Stellantis’ cautious approach contrasts with Ford and GM, whose aggressive investments in dedicated EV factories have led to reduced production volumes for models like the F-150 Lightning and electric Chevy Silverado. Sluggish sales have forced GM to pivot away from EVs at Orion, highlighting the risks of overcommitting to BEVs prematurely. Stellantis’ strategy, while criticized initially for being slow, now appears prudent as it balances innovation with market realities.

Looking Ahead

The delay of the electric Ram 1500 to 2027 reflects a broader recalibration in the EV industry, where automakers are navigating consumer hesitancy, infrastructure limitations, and economic pressures. By prioritizing the Ramcharger and maintaining production flexibility, Stellantis aims to deliver reliable, market-aligned vehicles. For EV enthusiasts and Ram fans, the wait for a fully electric pickup continues, but the automaker’s focus on quality and adaptability may ensure a stronger debut when the time comes.

Photos courtesy of RAM Trucks