The highly anticipated 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) is edging closer to production, and Ram has now shared more details on this innovative truck. Set to hit dealership lots in the second half of this year, the Ramcharger aims to bridge the gap between traditional gas-powered pickups and fully electric trucks by offering a unique hybrid-like solution.
With a 92-kWh battery and a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, the New 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger boasts an impressive total range of 690 miles. While this number had been mentioned before, we now have a better understanding of how Ram achieves it. Let’s dive into what makes this truck stand out and whether it truly delivers what truck buyers are looking for.
Battery and Range
The Ramcharger’s 92-kWh battery provides up to 145 miles of pure electric driving. Unlike a typical plug-in hybrid, where the gasoline engine assists the wheels, the Ramcharger’s engine functions solely as a generator, supplying power to the electric motors when the battery is depleted. This design enables the truck to function like a full EV for shorter drives while ensuring long-distance travel without range anxiety.
One interesting detail is that only 69.7 kWh of the 92-kWh battery pack is actually usable. According to Stellantis, this design choice ensures a consistent driving experience, especially when towing. While some hardcore EV enthusiasts might see this as a drawback compared to fully electric trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning, which delivers 230 miles from its 98-kWh battery, the Ramcharger prioritizes a balance between range, efficiency, and usability.
Fuel Economy and Towing Capacity
With a 27-gallon fuel tank, the Ramcharger can travel an additional 545 miles once the battery power runs out. Ram estimates a fuel economy of 20.5 MPG when running on gasoline. This figure is comparable to the gas-powered 3.6-liter 4WD Ram 1500, which has a combined rating of 23 MPG.
However, the 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger towing capacity is where it truly shines. With a claimed 14,000-pound towing capacity—nearly double the 7,500 pounds of its gas-powered counterpart—it offers a compelling option for buyers who need heavy-duty capabilities without sacrificing electric efficiency.
Why Not a Fully Electric Ram 1500?
Ram had originally planned to launch the all-electric Ram 1500 REV with a 168-kWh battery for 350 miles of range and a 229-kWh version for an incredible 500 miles. However, production delays and shifting market trends led to a reevaluation. The high cost and weight of large EV batteries have proven to be significant obstacles, with many truck buyers hesitant to make the switch due to concerns over charging infrastructure and long-term reliability.
The 500-mile version of the REV has now been canceled, while the 350-mile variant has been delayed until 2026. This makes the Ramcharger a strategic middle-ground option, appealing to customers who want an electrified truck without sacrificing traditional truck usability.
EREV vs. Plug-In Hybrid
While plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) split power between electric and gasoline engines, an extended-range EV (EREV) like the Ramcharger is designed to function as a pure electric vehicle with a gasoline-powered generator as a backup. Unlike Jeep’s PHEVs, which only generate about 100 horsepower from their electric motors, the Ramcharger’s electric drive system delivers full performance regardless of whether the battery or generator is supplying power.
This design ensures that the Ramcharger maintains the driving experience of an electric truck while eliminating the need to stop for lengthy recharges during long hauls or towing-heavy loads.
Performance and Power
Despite its range-extending gasoline engine, the 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger is no slouch when it comes to performance. It features a dual-motor electric propulsion system:
- 250-kW front electric drive module (EDM)
- 238-kW rear EDM
- Total output: 663 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque
This setup allows the truck to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, rivaling other high-performance electric pickups like the Rivian R1T and GMC Hummer EV.
2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger key competitors
| Feature | 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger (EREV) | Ford F-150 Lightning (Standard) | Chevrolet Silverado EV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 3.6L V6 + Dual Electric Motors | Dual Electric Motors | Dual Electric Motors |
| Battery Size | 92 kWh (69.7 kWh usable) | 98 kWh (usable) | 105 kWh (usable) |
| Electric Range | 145 miles | 230 miles | 250 miles |
| Total Range | 690 miles (with gas) | 230 miles | 450 miles |
| Horsepower | 663 hp | 580 hp | 510 hp |
| Torque | 615 lb-ft | 775 lb-ft | 615 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | ~4.4 seconds | ~4.0 seconds | ~4.5 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | ~2,625 lbs | 2,235 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Fuel Economy | 20.5 MPG (gas mode) | N/A | N/A |
| Charging Time | Level 2: ~6-8 hours | Level 2: ~8 hours | Level 2: ~10 hours |
| Price (Est.) | $65,000 – $80,000 | $55,000 – $97,000 | $74,800+ |
The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger stands out with its extended range, strong towing capacity, and flexibility for long hauls without frequent charging stops. Meanwhile, the Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevy Silverado EV focus more on all-electric performance, with higher EV range but shorter total range and lower towing capacity.
STLA Frame and Battery Technology
The Ramcharger is built on Stellantis’ STLA Frame platform, which will underpin the company’s future body-on-frame electric vehicles. Its battery uses nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry, similar to other Stellantis EVs, but with a smaller capacity compared to the original REV design. The smaller battery helps cut down on weight and cost while still delivering enough range for daily driving needs.
Practicality for Everyday Use
Although 142 miles of electric range might seem modest, it aligns well with the needs of most drivers. According to the AAA American Driving Survey, the average American drives about 30 miles per day. Even in colder months, the Ramcharger’s battery can handle most daily commutes without relying on its range extender.
For commercial users like contractors and landscapers, who typically operate within a local radius and travel less than 100 miles per day, the 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.
Driving Modes and Functionality
The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger drive system is designed to operate seamlessly. When the battery has sufficient charge, it functions like a standard EV, running purely on electricity. If the battery gets low, the V6 engine kicks in, generating electricity without directly powering the wheels.
In Auto Mode, the truck begins in 4WD, but at speeds between 12 and 18 mph, the front motor disengages to reduce drag and improve efficiency. In Sport, Towing, and Off-Road Modes, 4WD remains engaged for maximum traction and performance.
Cost and Availability
While Ram has not yet announced official pricing, estimates suggest the Ramcharger will fall between $65,000 and $80,000, making it competitive with conventional gas-powered Ram 1500 models. Cutting the battery capacity by 76 kWh compared to the REV is expected to save roughly $9,000 in production costs, while the addition of the range-extending engine adds back $4,000 to $5,000. This balance helps keep the truck’s price reasonable while delivering a unique combination of electric performance and traditional truck capability.
2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Specs
| Category | 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger (EREV) |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 3.6L Pentastar V6 + Dual Electric Motors |
| Battery Capacity | 92 kWh (69.7 kWh usable) |
| Electric Range | 145 miles |
| Total Range (Gas + Electric) | 690 miles |
| Horsepower | 663 hp |
| Torque | 615 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH Time | ~4.4 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Payload Capacity | ~2,625 lbs |
| Fuel Economy (Gas Mode) | 20.5 MPG (Targeted) |
| Drive System | AWD (Dual Motor) |
| Charging Time (Level 2) | ~6-8 hours |
| Fast Charging Capability | Yes (DC Fast Charging) |
| Chassis | STLA Frame Architecture |
| Front Motor | 250 kW Electric Drive Module |
| Rear Motor | 238 kW Electric Drive Module |
| Tank Capacity | 27 gallons |
| Weight Reduction | ~700-800 lbs (compared to full EV version) |
| Price Estimate | $65,000 – $80,000 |
| Availability | Second half of 2025 |
Key Takeaways:
- Extended Range Advantage – Offers 690 miles total with gas backup.
- Massive Towing Capacity – Outperforms most EV trucks.
- Hybrid Flexibility – No charging worries on long trips.
- Powerful Performance – 663 hp with a quick 0-60 mph time.
The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger offers a smart compromise between electric efficiency and gas-powered reliability. For buyers who need serious towing power but aren’t ready to commit to a fully electric truck, it presents an attractive alternative.
While it might not appeal to hardcore EV enthusiasts looking for maximum electric range, it caters perfectly to those who want the benefits of an electric truck without range anxiety. The ability to refuel at a gas station instead of relying on public chargers—especially when towing—gives it a significant advantage over fully electric rivals. It’s going to be very interesting to find out.
With production set to begin later this year, it will be fascinating to see how the market responds. Will traditional truck buyers embrace electrification if it offers familiar practicality? Only time will tell, but the Ramcharger is certainly positioned as a game-changer in the evolving pickup landscape.
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