Electric 2024 RAM 1500 Ramcharger offers 1100km range

The 2024 RAM 1500 Ramcharger range-extender plug-in hybrid has been unveiled in the US overnight, created for those who demand high levels of efficiency from a full-size pick-up but aren’t ready for a full EV.

Set to arrive in North America next year as part of wide-ranging MY25 RAM 1500 upgrades – which see the long-serving HEMI V8 dropped from the line-up – the new RAM 1500 Ramcharger is powered by two electric motors and draws energy from a large 92kWh battery pack.

The battery pack is replenished by a 3.6-litre Pentastar petrol V6, which has no connection to the driven wheels but transfers power through a 130kW generator unit. A power outlet can also be plugged into the vehicle for recharging.

Combined, the dual motors pump out a respectable 494kW and 833Nm of torque – similar outputs to the all-electric RAM 1500 REV (488kW/840Nm), which is also due to be launched next year and has been confirmed for Australia at a later date.

There’s no word yet on whether the Ramcharger is heading Down Under for local conversion by RAM Trucks Australia, but it’s an obvious prospect.

The beauty of the new 1500 Ramcharger is its ability to match the battery-powered version for acceleration – reaching 60mph (97km/h) from rest in 4.4 seconds – while outperforming the EV truck in other key areas.

The driving range, for example, with a full charge and brimmed tank is claimed to be 1110km, a considerable improvement on the long-range REV’s targeted 805km.

RAM says the Ramcharger can also travel around 320km on electric power alone, which means many owners won’t have to reply on the combustion engine at all.

As well as support from the petrol engine, the Ramcharger has the ability to decouple the front axle for efficiency at high speeds.

In other key areas, the 1500 Ramcharger offers a 6350kg maximum towing capability while payload is a generous 1191kg – on par with the REV.

Featuring both a multi-link rear suspension and air springs all-round, RAM claims the electrified 1500 leads the class for ride and handling.

Boosting traction, there’s also an optional electronic locking rear differential.

The air suspension means the 1500 should offer decent ground clearance in the highest of its five ride heights, while the truck can sink to the ground to help owners clamber aboard.

Other tech available on the 1500 Ramcharger includes bi-directional charging that can provide up to 7.2kW of power to run tools, appliances and send power back into your home or the electricity grid (where available).

The 92kWh battery, meanwhile, can be topped up at a rate of up to 145kW, with a DC fast-charger adding 80km of range in around 10 minutes.

Sharing its design with the 1500 REV, the Ramcharger has an illuminated badge that pulsates when it is charging.

Inside, there’s the choice of a 12-inch or 14.5-inch infotainment system, while a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel is placed ahead of the driver.

Fresh options introduced on the hybrid RAM pick-up include a digital rear-view mirror, a 23-speaker premium sound system and an additional 10.25-inch infotainment screen for the front passenger.

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