Why Did Ram Cancel the 1500 REV Before Launch?
If you’ve been following the electric truck scene, you might have noticed a big twist: Ram pulled the plug on its highly anticipated 1500 REV before it even hit the streets. So, what happened? The answer boils down to timing, market demand, and a dash of strategic patience.
Ram’s original plan was bold—a fully electric pickup with up to 500 miles of range, debuting in late 2024. But as the months ticked by, it became clear that the appetite for full-size electric trucks in North America just wasn’t as strong as expected. Ford’s F-150 Lightning, Chevy’s Silverado EV, and even the Tesla Cybertruck have all faced slower-than-hoped sales, with recent industry data from Cox Automotive showing EV truck inventories outpacing demand by a wide margin in early 2024.
Ram’s leadership, including CEO Tim Kuniskis, openly acknowledged this reality. Instead of rushing a product to market and risking a flop, they chose to hit pause. Their reasoning? By waiting, they could learn from competitors’ missteps and recalibrate their strategy. It’s a move that’s less about giving up and more about playing the long game.
What Was the 1500 REV Supposed to Offer?
Let’s talk specs, because the original 1500 REV was no slouch. Ram promised two battery options—168 kWh and a whopping 229 kWh—delivering up to 500 miles on a single charge. The dual-motor all-wheel drive setup would have packed 654 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque, launching this beast from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. On paper, it was a juggernaut, ready to take on the best of Detroit and Silicon Valley.
But as development wrapped up, the writing was on the wall. Even with those impressive numbers, the market just wasn’t biting. Ram’s decision to discontinue the full-size BEV pickup wasn’t about the truck’s abilities—it was about whether enough buyers were ready to make the leap.
What’s Happening to the Ramcharger and the REV Name?
Here’s where things get interesting. While the pure electric 1500 REV is off the table, the spirit of the truck lives on in the Ramcharger—a range-extended electric pickup that’s now being rebranded as the new REV.
Think of the Ramcharger (now REV) as a bridge between old-school gas trucks and full EVs. It uses a battery for most driving, but when you need extra range, a gas engine kicks in to generate electricity. This setup is designed to ease range anxiety, a major sticking point for many truck buyers.
The latest specs for the range-extended REV are still impressive: 647 horsepower, 610 lb-ft of torque, and a projected range of 690 miles. That’s a hair lower than the original all-electric numbers, but still more than enough for most real-world needs. The 0-60 mph time sits at 4.5 seconds—just a blink slower than before. And with a planned launch in 2026, Ram is betting that the market will be more receptive by then.
How Does This Reflect Broader Trends in the EV Truck Market?
Ram’s pivot is a microcosm of what’s happening across the industry. After an initial surge of excitement, the EV truck market has cooled. According to a 2024 J.D. Power study, only about 9% of new truck shoppers are seriously considering an EV, citing concerns about charging infrastructure, range, and cost.
Manufacturers are responding by tweaking their offerings. Ford cut production targets for the Lightning, GM delayed the launch of its Silverado EV, and now Ram is shifting gears with the REV. The message is clear: automakers are listening to buyers, not just chasing headlines.
What Should Truck Buyers Expect Next?
If you’re in the market for a new truck, the landscape is shifting fast. Range-extended models like the upcoming Ram REV offer a practical middle ground—electric driving for daily commutes, with the safety net of a gas generator for long hauls or heavy towing. It’s a solution that acknowledges the realities of American driving habits and infrastructure.
Keep an eye on pricing, too. As battery costs come down and charging networks expand, expect to see more competitive options in the next few years. And don’t be surprised if other brands follow Ram’s lead, blending electric power with range-extending tech to win over hesitant buyers.
The Big Takeaway for Truck Fans
Ram’s decision to shelve the all-electric 1500 REV isn’t a defeat—it’s a recalibration. The company is betting that flexibility and real-world usability will win out over pure electric bravado, at least for now. The big takeaway? Truck innovation isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.