Ram ProMaster EV: A Practical Electric Van for Fleets
The Ram ProMaster EV is the latest entrant in the growing electric van market, competing with models like the Ford E-Transit and Mercedes-Benz eSprinter. While it may not be the most visually striking vehicle, it boasts practical features and a setup that’s friendly to upfitters. The ProMaster EV is initially available in a Delivery configuration, with a Cargo version set to follow in early 2025.
The ProMaster EV is powered by a 268-hp electric motor, producing 302 pound-feet of torque. While it won’t provide the same level of acceleration as some of its competitors, it features sharp accelerator pedal response and brisk acceleration to normal suburban speeds. The van’s battery pack, with a capacity of 97.0 kWh, allows for up to 162 miles of range in urban driving with half a payload.
Practical Features for Fleet Customers
Ram has designed the ProMaster EV with fleet customers in mind, incorporating features like Ram Telematics for location and driving data, and the Uconnect app for last-mile navigation. The van also includes Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant and a range of safety features, such as drowsiness detection and forward collision warning.
The ProMaster EV’s interior is functional, with a mix of physical buttons and a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. While the display can be laggy in early builds, it’s expected to improve. The cabin offers excellent forward visibility and is spacious, with plenty of headroom when standing.
Charging and Performance
The ProMaster EV can charge from 20 to 80 percent in under 55 minutes using a DC fast-charger, with a peak rate of up to 150 kilowatts. A Level 2 charger at 11 kilowatts can take the battery from 20 percent to full in under eight hours. The van will feature adjustable regenerative braking and a creep function when it reaches customers.
Conclusion
The Ram ProMaster EV is a competent electric van that, while not flashy, offers practical features and a setup that should appeal to fleet customers. Its range, charging capabilities, and powertrain are all on par with the competition, though its payload capacity and price tag may be drawbacks for some. With its focus on functionality and upfitter-friendly design, the ProMaster EV is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable electric van for commercial use.
