Ram ProMaster EV: Electric Power for Commercial Needs
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly important for consumers, but the commercial vehicle market, including vans and trucks, represents a crucial segment for electrification. These vehicles often operate in urban environments, making them ideal candidates for electric powertrains, both for cost savings and environmental benefits. The Ford E-Transit has been the dominant electric commercial van, but the Ram ProMaster EV is now entering the market as a potential competitor.
The ProMaster EV shares its basic design with its Stellantis siblings, the Peugeot E-Boxer and Fiat E-Ducato. The ProMaster EV mirrors the Peugeot’s design, with a high-output motor powering the front wheels. The ProMaster EV boasts 268 horsepower and 302 pound-feet of torque—close to its gasoline-powered counterpart and comparable to the Ford E-Transit.
Powering the ProMaster EV is a 110-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Ram targets a city range of 174 miles, though a more realistic range with a half-loaded van is predicted to be about 160 miles. This range surpasses the Ford E-Transit’s maximum range estimate. The ProMaster EV supports 150-kW fast charging and 11-kW Level 2 AC charging, suitable for overnight recharging.
Two ProMaster EV configurations are available: a delivery van with a roll-up cargo door and a sliding pocket door, and a more conventional cargo van with split rear doors. Payload capacities differ, with the delivery van rated at 2,030 pounds and the cargo van at 3,020 pounds. Ram claims up to 524 cubic feet of cargo space. The ProMaster EV’s battery placement under the floor maintains the same cargo capacity as the gasoline version.
Driving the ProMaster EV is a distinct experience. The electric motor provides immediate throttle response, resulting in quicker acceleration. This particular model was electronically limited to 70 mph, which impressed the experts from Ram.
The ProMaster EV incorporates interior features, including a 7-inch instrument screen, a 10.1-inch center screen, and options such as a heated steering wheel, heated windshield, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot warning. Given the van’s size and lack of rear windows, the blind-spot warning and heated windshield are particularly beneficial.
However, the ProMaster EV’s high price point is a significant concern. The delivery model starts at $79,990, significantly more than the Ford E-Transit’s starting price. While the delivery configuration may include upfits, the price remains a major hurdle.
The Ram ProMaster EV’s performance and features make it a compelling electric van option. However, its high price tag could limit its adoption until the pricing of the cargo model is revealed.
