What is the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger and How Does Its Extended-Range Electric Powertrain Work?

The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger is not a conventional plug-in hybrid or a pure electric vehicle; it's an extended-range electric pickup truck that uses a 3.6-liter gasoline V-6 engine as an onboard generator to power its electric motors, targeting an impressive 663 horsepower, 14,000 pounds of towing capacity, and a maximum range of up to 690 miles.

How Does the Ramcharger's Powertrain Actually Work?

The Ramcharger’s core innovation lies in its series-hybrid setup. It is driven solely by two electric drive modules: a 250-kilowatt (kW) unit on the front axle and a 238-kW unit on the rear. These are powered by a sizable 92-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack. The gasoline engine is not connected to the wheels. Instead, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 acts as a generator, producing mechanical power that is converted by a 130-kW onboard generator into electricity. This electricity can either recharge the battery pack or power the drive modules directly, preserving battery charge. This system aims to eliminate range anxiety by providing a continuous supply of electric power, leading Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis to describe its battery-electric range as "unlimited" in practice.

What Are the Key Performance and Capability Specs?

Based on Ram's targeted specifications, the Ramcharger is positioned as a high-performance workhorse. Key figures include:

• Power and Acceleration: A combined 663 horsepower and 615 pounds-feet of torque contribute to an estimated 0-60 miles per hour (MPH) time of just 4.4 seconds.
• Towing and Payload: It boasts a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds.
• Range: The headline figure is a maximum range of up to 690 miles.

The truck also supports 400-volt DC fast charging at up to 145 kW, which Ram claims can add approximately 50 miles of range in about 10 minutes under ideal conditions. It also features vehicle-to-load (V2L) and vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging capabilities, allowing it to power tools or a home.

What Features and Trim Levels Are Available?

The Ramcharger will be available in a range of trim levels, from the work-oriented Tradesman to the new ultra-luxurious Tungsten at the top. Standard and available features enhance both its capability and comfort:

• Standard Adjustable Air Suspension: This system offers five settings (Entry/Exit, Aero, Normal, Off-Road 1, Off-Road 2) for optimizing ride height for efficiency or off-road terrain.
• Energy-Saving Technology: The front electric drive module can disconnect to allow the wheels to spin freely, enabling the truck to operate in more efficient rear-wheel drive. One-pedal driving is also standard.
• Luxurious Interior: The top Tungsten trim features a premium cabin with a two-tone design, authentic metal accents, suede trim, and Natura Plus leather upholstery.
• Advanced Tech Suite: An available 14.5-inch touchscreen runs the UConnect 5 system, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an available 10.25-inch front passenger display. A 23-speaker Klipsch stereo is standard on Tungsten models.
• Driver Assistance: The truck will be available with a Level 2 hands-free driving system for compatible highways.

How Can You Reserve a 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger?

Interested buyers can secure a chance to preorder the truck by making a $100 refundable reservation. Reservations opened on November 7 and will remain available through December 31, or while supplies last. It is crucial to understand that this reservation only secures an opportunity to preorder the vehicle later; final pricing and an on-sale date have not yet been announced by Ram.

For potential buyers, the key takeaway is that the Ramcharger represents a compelling third path between traditional gas trucks and full-electric pickups. It promises the zero-emissions driving and performance of an EV for daily commutes, with the extended range and convenience of a gasoline engine for long trips and heavy towing. The $100 refundable reservation is a low-risk way to get in line, but a final purchase decision should await the announcement of official pricing and more detailed specifications on the generator's operation and real-world efficiency.