Dodge-parent, Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) plans to introduce a new plug-in hybrid version of its Ram pickup truck, the Ramcharger, while phasing out the V-8 Hemi engines as part of its initiative to reduce CO2 emissions in its North American fleet.
Stellantis will discontinue the widely favored Hemi V-8 engine in its light-duty Ram pickup trucks starting in 2025, opting instead for the inclusion of six-cylinder combustion engines. These changes come alongside the previously revealed battery-electric Ram, showcasing the brand's commitment to a more sustainable automotive future.
The automaker will continue to offer the popular Hemi in Ram’s heavy-duty trucks.
Increasing sales of hybrid and electric trucks and improving the fuel efficiency of Ram's combustion models is critical to the Detroit automaker.
The company has grappled with fines due to its failure to comply with U.S. emissions standards, with the looming threat of even harsher penalties as regulations continue to tighten.
Scheduled for release by 2025, the plug-in hybrid Ramcharger model reflects a strategic gamble on the part of Stellantis, considering that a substantial segment of Detroit brand consumers might not yet be prepared for a fully electric pickup.
Both GM and Ford (NYSE:F) have revised their production projections for electric trucks, given that the demand has not met their initial targets.
In the coming years, the majority of Ram trucks will continue to rely on traditional combustion engines. Begining in 1Q24, the iconic eight-cylinder Hemi, which has played a pivotal role in the marketing of light-duty Ram pickups since 2003, will gradually be phased out.
Shares of STLA are down 0.90% in afternoon trading on Tuesday.