Introducing the 2024 Ram 1500 REV: Revolutionary Electric Truck or Overhyped?
The 2024 Ram 1500 REV, Ram Truck's first all-electric light-duty pickup, recently debuted at the New York International Auto Show. As part of Stellantis' Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, the electric truck promises cutting-edge technology and impressive performance figures. But will it live up to the hype? Let's delve into the details and see if the Ram 1500 REV can deliver on its promises.
Power, Range, and Charging Capabilities
The 2024 Ram 1500 REV offers two all-electric options: a standard 168-kWh battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles and an optional 229-kWh large battery pack with a targeted range of up to 500 miles. With 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, both battery packs can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes. While these numbers are impressive, real-world conditions and factors like towing, payload, and weather may affect the range and charging times.
Performance and Capability
Ram promises a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, 654 horsepower, 620 lb.-ft. of torque, up to 14,000 pounds towing, and a maximum payload capacity of 2,700 pounds for the 1500 REV. Additionally, the truck is expected to offer up to 24 inches of water fording capability. While these figures sound promising, actual performance may vary, and we'll have to wait for real-world tests to confirm if the 1500 REV can truly outperform its competitors.
Vehicle-to-Grid and Onboard Power Solutions
The Ram 1500 REV boasts vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-home, and vehicle-to-grid bi-directional charging capabilities. The truck can also provide power to a home during a storm, run a tailgate party, or power a camp or job site. While this feature adds versatility and convenience, it remains to be seen how practical it will be in daily use and whether it will affect the vehicle's overall range.
Design and Technology
Ram's electric truck features a modern design with a distinctive, EV-specific appearance. Inside, the 1500 REV offers premium materials, an advanced Uconnect 5 system with up to a 14.5-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a segment-first 10.25-inch passenger screen, a digital rearview mirror, Head-up Display (HUD), and a Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system. However, it's crucial to evaluate how user-friendly and reliable these advanced features will be in day-to-day use.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Ram 1500 REV promises impressive performance, range, and technology. However, only time will tell if it can live up to the hype and deliver on its promises. As automotive journalists, it's our responsibility to evaluate these claims with a critical eye and wait for real-world testing before making any final judgments.
-Ed
2025 Ram 1500 REV
