Sitting back and watching the evolution of the electric pickup market seems to have been the right move for Ram. The company has delayed its fully electric BEV version (the Ram Rev) until sometime in 2026, while simultaneously introducing an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) to market in the second half of 2025.
Now we can take a closer look at how this eight-lug “half-ton” 2026 Ram Ramcharger operates across its various drive modes.
The Most Capable “1500” Ram
Most half-ton pickups today can haul far more than 1,100 lb, but this model is rated for 2,645 lb (1.32 tons) – about 265 lb more than the top-spec V-6 4×2 Tradesman can handle. As detailed in the Indy Auto Man’s Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 comparison, the 1500 lineup already strikes a strong balance between strength and usability, and the Ramcharger takes that capability even further. Its independent five-link rear suspension boasts a Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of 5,735 lb – 1,322 lb more than any 1500 model with a solid axle and gasoline engine can manage – thanks to heavy-duty forged suspension links, reinforced hubs, and those eight wheel studs and nuts securing the wheels.
The Ramcharger is also rated to tow 14,000 lb with a weight-distributing hitch (the I-6-powered 4×2 Tradesman tops out at 11,600 lb). Unfortunately, Ram won’t be offering gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch options. As for curb weight, the battery pack adds about 1,100 lb, pushing the total to a claimed 7,500 lb.
Towing and Hauling Power
This is an electric pickup equipped with an onboard generator. Propulsion comes entirely from two permanent-magnet motors, rated at 335 hp and 310 lb-ft at the front, and 333 hp and 310 lb-ft at the rear, each driving through a robust 15:1 reduction gear. The onboard Pentastar V-6 engine is tuned to produce 271 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque, driving a 271-hp generator. From there, power can flow directly into the battery, to the front and rear drive motors, or split among all three.
Peak acceleration is achieved in Sport Mode, which draws full power from both the battery and the generator for a combined total of 647 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque – enough to hit 0–60 mph in a claimed 4.5 seconds. When the battery is depleted, output is limited to a share of the generator’s 271 hp (its continuous rating is 174 hp). Still, Ram assures that even with an empty battery, the Ramcharger can reach a top speed of 114 mph when unladen. When towing a 14,000-lb trailer, it also maintains the power required to climb the Davis Dam – essential for verifying its towing credentials.
Drive Modes
Controls on the left side of the steering wheel toggle between several drive modes:
- Auto: The default Auto and Electric+ settings maximize efficiency by running in full EV mode until the battery is depleted. They also disengage the front drivetrain through automatic hub disconnects when driving on dry roads above 12–18 mph. (All other modes keep the front hubs locked for full-time all-wheel drive.)
- Sport Mode: Engages the hubs, starts the engine, and recalibrates the powertrain and air suspension for maximum performance.
- Tow Mode: Starts the engine once battery charge drops to 35% – a level typically reached after about 39 miles while towing a 14,000-lb trailer. The gasoline engine extends the total towing range to roughly 267 miles.
- Snow Mode: Softens throttle response to mimic a low-traction, second-gear start.
- Off-Road Low Mode: Simulates a low-range crawl gear, enabling high-traction, low-speed crawling whenever the brake pedal is released. All Ramcharger models feature air suspension and an electronic locking rear differential.
- Off-Road High Mode: Removes the crawl function but retains milder pedal response for better wheel control at moderate speeds.
One-Pedal Driving Controls
Switches on the right side of the steering wheel toggle One-Pedal Driving, which maximizes regenerative braking all the way to a complete stop, and let you adjust the braking strength. Additional switches around the rotary gear selector near the driver’s right knee control Electric+ (default discharge), E-Save (charge maintenance), and Eco modes. The latter limits peak power for a more relaxed drive and optimizes the HVAC system to extend range. Buttons for Hill Descent Control and axle locking are also conveniently located here.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Ram Ramcharger brings together the best of both worlds – the clean efficiency of an electric truck and the go-anywhere confidence of a gas-powered generator. It’s built for drivers who want to haul, explore, or simply cruise in quiet electric mode without worrying about range.
With its blend of strength, smarts, and versatility, the Ram shows you can have power, practicality, and innovation in one truck, whether you opt for a 2026 RAMcharger or a used-car market proven choice that delivers impressive capability and value.
