We are in the era of the electric full-size pickup truck. So it’s only a matter of time before the three tenors of the category, the Ford F-150, the Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra and the Ram 1500, will compete in this chapter. If Ford has already started marketing its model, and if GM has recently unveiled its own, RAM is still in the development stage with its 1500 electric. A prototype, however, has just been seen on the road.
The van you see on screen is actually a development mule. In other words, the electric Ram 1500 might not look like it. Ram appears to have squarely installed a battery and electric motors under the body of a Ram 1500 Big Horn equipped with a crew cab and a 6.4-foot bed.
It is even comical to see the inscription HEMI 5.7L on its hood. Obviously Ram doesn’t want anyone to know it’s an electric prototype!
However, if we rely on these images that were captured by the American media GM Authority, we can see that this Ram is not equipped with an exhaust system. We also notice an oddly folded bumper as well as cladding at the height of the sills, in order to conceal what is hidden underneath. At the rear, you can see an orange high-tension cable at the height of the suspension elements. Moreover, these suspensions are of the independent wheel type with coil springs, a configuration similar to that of the Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra EV. For this prototype, Ram no doubt used suspension components from the Jeep Wagoneer.
It is still far too early to comment on the technical characteristics of the electric Ram 1500. We know from reliable sources, however, that Ram might offer the option of a gas-powered range extender. This gadget would recharge the battery, but also increase the maximum autonomy of the vehicle. Ram firmly believes that this technology will allow it to surpass the capabilities of its competitors.
