10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE 2025 RAM 1500 RAMCHARGER

The pickup truck market has seen drastic changes, with electric and hybrid variants competing against their gasoline-powered siblings. Ram is one of the top manufacturers that comes to mind when thinking of trucks formed around reliability, performance, and towing capabilities. In 2025, Ram put their first hybrid truck up for grabs, and it lives up to the hype.

Ram has already entered the electric world through the 2024 Ram 1500 REV. Although it shows great potential, there's another electric variant that might outshine this model. The 2025 Ramcharger is an entirely different take on how electric trucks are typically engineered. Even though it's not fully electric, it isn't your typical plug-in hybrid either. With trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck entering the market, one thing is for certain: Ram has a grasp of how to engineer a truck around electricity.

The Ramcharger Features A Unique Powertrain

The 2025 Ramcharger 1500 has a unique powertrain compared to other hybrids. The main difference is that the Ramcharger's gasoline engine acts as an onboard generator for the battery.

Performance Specifications

(Data sourced from Ram)

The Ramcharger is classified as a hybrid but acts like an EV with a backup plan. The Pentastar 3.6-liter engine generates mechanical power, which is then converted to electric power. You might be wondering, "Don't most hybrids have a system such as this?" but the unique feature is that the V-6 engine doesn't provide any power to the wheels.

When the 70.8-kWh battery pack starts to deplete and can't recharge, the gasoline engine intervenes, extending the range. This system allows the Ramcharger to maintain 663 horsepower and 615 pound-feet of torque while being efficient. The two powertrains are a well-anticipated duo that raises the standard of the Ram 1500s.

An Overall Driving Range Of 690 Miles

The range is no issue for the Ramcharger due to the piggyback system to keep the battery constantly charged. Since distance and recharging were common outliers for electric vehicle engineering, it shows today that car manufacturers have figured out how to get around this issue.

• The Ramcharger has an estimated range of 690 miles.
• Fast charging that gives you short trips and flexibility
• The charge port is placed on the driver's side front quarter panel.
• The charge port includes Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging and DC fast charging.
• You can schedule charging around your schedule.

The Ramcharger features a 130-kW generator, which sends 250-kW to the front and 238 kW to the rear electric drive modules (EDMs). You're not here for engineering 101, so, to put it simply, the system maximizes efficiency by disconnecting the truck's front electric motor to allow the front wheels to spin freely.

This feature enables the truck to operate in rear-wheel-drive mode, optimizing its fuel economy and range. There isn't just one reason why the Ramcharger has eliminated "range anxiety", but several systems in which Ram has developed to keep the Ramcharger efficient.

Impressive Suspension Setup In Place

Ram has designed a suspension to bring a customizable ride height depending on the situation. Whether you're cruising on the highway or going off-road, the Ramcharger has you covered.

Air Suspension System Five Heights

• Normal Ride Height (NRH): Provides 8.7 inches of clearance measured from the base of the door sill.
• Aero: Lowers the truck 1.5 inches from NRH.
• Off-Road 1: Lifts the truck 1 inch from NRH to help clear obstacles.
• Off-Road 2: Lifts the truck 2 inches from NRH for better off-road clearance.
• Entry/Exit Height: Lowers the truck 2 inches for easy entry or loading.

Ram is among the many that incorporate software to provide optimal handling and a smoother ride. The 2025 Ramcharger has a multi-link independent rear suspension with standard air springs at all four corners. The springs bring adjustable ride height, whether you need the truck raised when off-roading or lowered when driving at higher speeds. Since the gasoline motor has no power on the wheels, Ram has incorporated an electronic rear-locking differential. This is an excellent feature for gaining traction in rough terrain and evenly distributing power to the wheels.

The Ramcharger Out-Tows The ICE And EV Ram 1500s

The Ramcharger outshines the current Ram 1500 lineup by almost doubling its towing capacity. It's unusual for performance-driven pickup trucks to handle heavy loads easily, but Ram has found a solution to their hybrid pickup.

Ram 1500 ICE vs. EV vs. PHEV Towing and Payload Comparison

(Data sourced from Ram)

Recently, Ram has had a consistent trend towards figuring out specific issues and finding a solution through implementing several systems. The increase of 325 pounds of payload capacity in the new hybrid truck allows owners the ability to carry cargo without losing performance or handling.

The motor, being a backup system to keep the battery charged, allows for easy long trips. Models such as the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T show significant decreases in range and efficiency when towing heavy loads. Ram found a solution and brought faith back in battery-powered trucks and their towing capabilities.

The Exterior Design Is In-line With Other Ram Trucks

Hybrid vehicles have a distinct image when it comes to the exterior. Ram has kept the rugged look that is typically associated with its previous trucks. With the amount of power and driving potential this truck has, it was a no-brainer for Ram to keep it looking aggressive.

• Exclusive EV-specific "RAM" badging is found throughout the exterior.
• Bright LED headlamps bring exceptional clarity.
• A trim-specific grille surrounds the redesigned front fascia.
• The Tungsten trim features 22-inch aluminum wheels.
• The Ramcharger's exterior is inspired by the gas-powered Ram 1500 and the Electric REV 1500.

The Ramcharger isn't going to "catfish" you when it resembles a rigid body with a weak undercarriage. Similar to its sibling, the Ram 1500 REV utilizes the same foundation as the Ramcharger. Both are equipped with the STLA Frame, a robust body-on-frame platform made from high-strength steel, which maintains the 1500's strong chassis. The advanced materials that are used create a lightweight but stiff body. This design is ideal for this 1500 because the frame is wider in the middle to incorporate the battery pack between the frame rails to optimize space and provide safety.

The Tungsten Trim Brings The Most Luxurious Interior In A Ram 1500

The 2025 Ram 1500's interiors will bring upscale commodities that could possibly make competitors worry. The Ramcharger includes the new trim, Tungsten, that comes packed with high-end features.

Convenient Interior Features Shown On The Tungsten Trim

• 24-way powered seats with heat ventilation and memory.
• A standard dual-pane power sunroof.
• The A- and B-pillars and other paneling are wrapped in suede.
• The color scheme consists of sea salt and indigo.
• A Tungsten badge displayed on the console lid is made of crystal and features the truck's VIN.

Ram has been pretty secret about what's inside the upcoming hybrid truck, but they pledge that it exceeds prior generations. On paper, the new Tungsten trim brings never-before-seen features to a Ram 1500. These features include premium leather seating, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents.

While many automotive manufacturers have been doing this for the last decade, Ram understands that these trucks are used day in and day out. Although it might not be the next benchmark for the Ram 1500s, it is certainly headed in the right direction on how trucks should look on the inside.

A Wide Array Of Innovative Technologies

Modern technology, as shown in the Ramcharger 1500, provides all the bells and whistles a truck needs.

• You can leave your key fob behind and use Ram's smartphone app for a digital key.
• A standard 12-inch or upgraded 14.5-inch touchscreen is used for infotainment and entertainment.
• An optional 10.25-inch passenger interactive display provides information and entertainment.
• The Tungsten model has Klipsch's 23-speaker system with a 1,228-watt setup.
• The Klipsch Premiere Audio System delivers a noise-canceling feature throughout the whole cabin.
• The Uconnect 5 displays Power Flow, Range Impact, Max Battery Level, and Charging Level.

The Ramcharger raises the bar for what standard technology should be in a truck. The Uconnect 5 is the hub for several systems used on the infotainment screen. Some of these features include connectivity, entertainment, and security. This system benefits the hybrid truck by displaying information over the range and on-the-go charging. Ram has been hesitant to let the media explore the interior and all of its features, but there will likely be some pleasant surprises upon its full release.

No Dearth Of Safety Features

Ram has over a hundred safety and security features on the Ramcharger. While most hybrids and electric vehicles have impressive safety technologies, this hybrid variant continues this trend.

Convenient Safety Feature Of The Ram Ramcharger 1500

• Active Lane Management: Provides steering correction if the vehicle veers into another lane containing an obstacle or vehicle.
• Evasive Steer Assist: Aids the driver from performing an evasive lane change and alerts the driver if the Forward Collision Warning System detects a front-on collision.
• Intersection Collision Assist System: Provides an audible warning and auto emergency braking when a possible collision is detected.
• Drowsy Driver Detection: The system detects if the driver is showing symptoms of drowsiness when operating the vehicle and virtually alerts the driver to get rest.
• Traffic Sign Recognition: Detects road signs and displays the roadway signs information on the infotainment screen and heads-up display.

Ram has several autonomous drive assist systems (ADAS) on the Ramcharger. The highway assist feature offers a hands-off driving experience at all speeds. It is a Level 2 driver support system, which means the driver must stay engaged when operating this system. This works with other systems, such as adaptive cruise control, where lasers, radars, and cameras help keep the vehicles at a safe distance and speed. The Ram 1500s aren't fully self-driven, but there are plenty of modern safety provisions to keep the driver safe.

Ram Has Offered One-Pedal Driving On This Truck

Ram has started offering one-pedal driving in its upcoming PHEV and EV trucks. Although this feature sounds scary, don't worry—you won't lose your brake pedal.

• Brake lights will still function normally when only using one pedal.
• The stopping phase feels smoother while using one-pedal driving over the hydraulic brakes.
• One-pedal driving is convenient and relaxing, as you leave your foot in one position.
• Forcing the driver to slow down because last-minute braking is not plausible while one-pedal driving.

There are several advantages to using the one-pedal method while driving. One of the biggest reasons is to extend the vehicle's electric range. You would have to use this system consistently in order to see the saved MPGe since it's typically a couple of miles saved. Minor benefits include less wear on the brakes, which extends the brake life.

While trucks are typically used to transport cargo for long distances, they will also provide an environmental advantage. Less brake dust entering the air provides another eco-friendly aspect when looking at the Ramcharger. The one-pedal system might not be for everyone, but it does come with some benefits to improve the 1500.

The Ultimate Truck For Tailgating

Ram's mission has always been "Build to Serve," and the new Ramcharger carries on that legacy.

• The ICE 1500 has a 2-kilowatt battery in the trunk, which is a downgrade compared to the Ramcharger.
• The exterior outlets are located outside the rear bumper and inside the bed.
• With its bidirectional charging capabilities, the Ramcharger provides power externally and internally.
• The power panels provide multiple outlets, including 120-volt AC outlets and a high-output 240-volt AC outlet.

The great side of owning a hybrid or electric vehicle is the ability to use that power for other needs. A 4.8-kilowatt battery in the trunk bed and a 7.2-kilowatt power panel provide power for everyday use. The truck can send power to a home during a storm, light up a campsite, or keep your tools running at a job site. While the Ramcharger has received a fancy makeover, it still has not lost its practicality around utility usage.

2024-05-03T02:01:18Z dg43tfdfdgfd