The Next Ram Might Be A New Full-Size SUV

Stellantis' announcement of a $13 billion investment in its US facilities is aimed at achieving a 50 percent increase in U.S.-based production and improvements to existing models, as well as some new ones. This included updates on the company's plans for a new mid-size truck and a next-generation Dodge Durango, slated for 2029. But, interestingly, it seems the company is planning an extension of its range-extended electric vehicle lineup by adding one to the Ram brand.

Related: The Legendary Dodge Durango is Returning in 2029 — Here’s What We Know So Far

Stellantis Already Has A REEV: The Grand Wagoneer

"Stellantis plans to develop an all-new range-extended EV and internal combustion engine large SUV," reads the brand's press release. The brand already deploys one elsewhere in its lineup in the form of the Grand Wagoneer, an updated version of which was revealed this week. The Jeep SUV is a full-sized model, like the proposed Ram alternative, and features a V6 engine acting solely as a generator for a huge battery and its suite of electric motors.

Given Stellantis' propensity for sharing mechanical platforms across several of its brands, it's pretty clear the Ram variant will be just that: a twist on the Grand Wagoneer. There's a few reasons this spinoff will go to Ram, and not one of the automaker's other brands: for one, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis promised a staggering 25 new product announcements between this summer and summer 2027. Ram is also already concentrating on an extended-range EV in the form of a Ram 1500. Adding an SUV to this lineup makes a good deal of sense.

What Should You Expect From Ram's EREV?

Jeep's upcoming REEV, or extended-range EV (EREV), already looks like a serious machine. It'll be the most powerful Grand Wagoneer ever with 647 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque. Jeep estimates the massive SUV will hit 60 mph in five seconds. With both the battery and the gas tank topped off, you'll be able to drive some 500 miles without stopping for more electrons into the battery or putting more gasoline into the tank.

On the surface, a REEV seems like a solid compromise compared to traditional EVs or hybrids, allowing drivers to drive further on battery power alone than many plug-in hybrids, but without forcing them to forgo the gas pump entirely. They are, in essence, a more electrified plug-in hybrid. However, their large gasoline engines and huge batteries are heavy and carry environmental penalties of their own, and it's a market Ram has largely steered clear of. The brand is more known for its large, gas-powered work trucks. An SUV would be a departure for the automaker, even if it isn't for the brand that's really under the skin: Jeep. How Ram buyers react remains to be seen, but consumers have shown some interest in EREVs.