The 1500 Revolution Concept that Ram brought to this year’s CES show was being presented as a full-on electric vehicle, but it now turns out it is a serial hybrid with the engine burning gasoline to power the main e-motor system.
The corresponding statement originates from Carlos Tavares. CEO of Stellantis, Car&Driver reports. Using a combustion engine to extend the electric driving range is a relatively common practice, with such cars being referred to as “range extender hybrids” or “serial hybrids”. The new Ram 1500 Revolution shapes up to be no exception, even if its wheels will be driven by electric motors.
Interestingly, adding an IC engine to the formula will enable the pickup to compete well against the likes of the Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet Silverado EV, both of which are pure battery-electric vehicles. The former is already on sale, the latter is slated to reach the showrooms this spring, and the Ram 1500 is only scheduled to arrive next year. Its superior range might become an attractive selling point despite being a bit late to the market.
Tavares also pointed out that, despite all upcoming hybrid releases, an all-electric 1500 model remains a key priority for the manufacturer. As such, we might someday see the range-extender and the EV versions being sold side-by-side.