Ram’s Plans for a More Accessible Pickup
For years, there have been whispers about Ram introducing a pickup truck positioned below the Ram 1500. A key element of this discussion has been affordability. Recent comments from Stellantis CFO Doug Ostermann seem to validate these rumors.
According to a Bloomberg report, Ostermann told a Wolfe Research conference that the brand needs to “introduce kind of a lower-end trim of the new pickup to fill that gap.” He was referring to the discontinued Ram 1500 Classic, which was the previous-generation Ram 1500. The good news for Ram is that Stellantis has several existing products that could potentially be adapted quickly to fill this need, rather than creating a model entirely from the ground up.
The Midsize Truck Option: Gladiator-Based or Standalone
The most likely path for Ram, at this point, appears to be a midsize truck. Multiple factors point toward this, including statements from Ram executives and indications related to the United Auto Workers (UAW).
Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis has clearly stated, “I need a midsize truck for sure.” Furthermore, previous CEO Chris Fuell has also confirmed the company’s interest in the segment.
The UAW indicated that the Belvidere, Illinois plant would start building a midsize truck in 2027. This production location has the potential to help circumvent planned tariffs. Developing a midsize truck would likely be a relatively easy and cost-effective venture for Ram, particularly if the Jeep Gladiator platform is utilized. The Gladiator is already the right physical size and boasts suitable specifications, making it a direct competitor to the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado. In addition, the platform and powertrains are already certified for the US market.
However, an adapted Gladiator could potentially take sales away from the Jeep model. To mitigate this, the Ram version could be differentiated with a switch to independent front suspension, which might offer improved on-road handling. A fully solid cab could also provide better refinement. Ram could even provide multiple cab and bed configurations, allowing the Jeep to remain a niche option while giving Ram a high-volume market competitor.
The Compact Truck Consideration: Ram 700?
While the midsize truck market has become somewhat crowded, the emerging compact truck segment is less saturated. The Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz are the main players in this niche within the US market.
Stellantis, often known for its expensive V8 trucks, SUVs, and sedans, can benefit from the more affordable and fuel-efficient options offered by the compact segments. A potential starting point comes with the Ram 700, which targets Central and South American markets. It’s also available in regular- and crew-cab body styles, which could be a distinct selling proposition.
Unfortunately, certain factors could complicate the possibility of a US-market Ram 700.
Firstly, the current Ram 700 doesn’t have any direct “cousins” in the US. Also, none of its engines are currently offered in this market, and the available engines would be considered relatively weak by American standards. The most powerful option has only a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder that produces 118 horsepower. Significant engine upgrades, such as introducing the turbocharged 2.0-liter from the Jeep Compass and Dodge Dart, would be necessary, and it’s uncertain how easily those engines could be integrated.
Furthermore, the Ram 700 is smaller than competitors. The truck is almost two feet shorter than the Maverick. Finally, the expenses associated with updating the Ram 700 for the US market could make it unprofitable at lower prices or more expensive than the competition, without offering significant gains. These factors make the compact option less likely, pushing the midsize truck as the more realistic choice.
