Stellantis Delays Launch of Ram Electric Pickup Amid Industry Challenges

Stellantis has postponed the production of its highly anticipated Ram electric pickup truck, pushing the launch to the first half of 2025. The automaker, which originally planned to release the vehicle this year, cited quality assurance as the primary reason for the delay.

The announcement came as the Franco-Italian company unveiled its STLA Frame platform, a versatile foundation designed to accommodate gasoline, hybrid, and fully electric full-size trucks and SUVs. This platform, described as a “skateboard” for vehicles, integrates key electrical and mechanical components, allowing flexibility across various models.

“We remain committed to executing our strategy despite the significant challenges facing the industry,” Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares stated during a press briefing. He emphasised the importance of ensuring quality, particularly in the midst of an overwhelming workload tied to the electric vehicle (EV) transition.

Stellantis is not alone in grappling with the complexities of EV production. The global automotive industry has faced slower-than-expected demand for EVs, leading to strategic pivots. Ford has embraced hybrid models, while General Motors (GM) has heavily invested in battery-powered vehicles, with plans to introduce plug-in hybrids by 2027.

Currently, Stellantis offers primarily plug-in hybrids in the U.S. but aims to ramp up EV production to meet ambitious targets: 100% battery-electric car sales in Europe and 50% electric passenger car and light-duty truck sales in the U.S. by 2030. However, uncertainty around EV incentives – such as the potential repeal of the $7,500 U.S. federal tax credit for EV purchases under President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tax reforms – poses additional challenges.

The delay in Ram EV production comes amidst declining sales in North America, traditionally a profit stronghold for Stellantis due to its popular Jeep and Ram vehicles. In response, Tavares has restructured the management team to tackle high inventory levels and a slumping stock price. Despite these efforts, the company’s shares have dropped by approximately 40% this year.

The STLA Frame platform, expected to underpin Ram and Jeep models, promises impressive specifications, including a 500-mile range, a towing capacity of 14,000 pounds, and support for hydrogen and extended-range electric vehicles. Stellantis’ ambitious platform strategy aims to position the company as a leader in the evolving automotive market, even as it navigates the complex EV landscape.