Electric Cars

Stellantis has made a significant strategic pivot, ceasing development of the fully electric Ram pickup truck that was slated for the US market. This decision, announced by the automotive giant, is attributed to a perceived deceleration in the demand for battery-electric trucks across North America, prompting a broader reevaluation of the company's electric vehicle strategy. This move marks an end to a project that had undergone several postponements, initially aiming for a late 2024 release but continually pushed back to 2025, then 2026, and finally mid-2027 before its ultimate cancellation. The company's former CEO, Carlos Tavares, had previously boasted that the electric Ram pickup would surpass competitors in crucial areas such as range, towing capacity, and charging efficiency.

In place of the purely electric model, Stellantis is now prioritizing the Ramcharger, a range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), which will be marketed as the Ram 1500 REV. This new direction is presented with renewed promises, asserting that the Ram 1500 REV will establish new performance benchmarks within the half-ton truck segment, delivering exceptional range, towing capabilities, and payload capacity. The REEV variant is designed with a 92 kWh battery, a 3.6-liter V-6 engine, a 27-gallon fuel tank, and dual electric motors, projecting an impressive total range of up to 690 miles, with approximately 145 miles available solely on electric power. Boasting up to 647 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque, the Ramcharger is set to be Ram's most potent pickup. Its interior will feature extensive digital displays, including a 14.5-inch infotainment screen, a 12.3-inch driver display, and a 10.25-inch passenger display.

The Ram 1500 REV is anticipated to debut in early 2026, with pricing details to be disclosed closer to its launch, although it is expected to commence around $75,000. This strategic adjustment by Stellantis underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of the electric vehicle market, where manufacturers must constantly adapt to consumer demand and technological advancements. While the cancellation of the all-electric Ram pickup may disappoint some, the shift towards a range-extended model highlights an adaptive approach, seeking to balance electric propulsion with the practical needs and preferences of truck buyers, aiming for innovation that genuinely serves the market. This reflects a commitment to continually refine and enhance product offerings in response to market signals, ensuring that new vehicles meet and exceed the evolving expectations of customers.

This groundbreaking initiative showcases the world's first fully electric deconstruction site, hailed as a pivotal advancement in sustainable urban development. This innovative project, a joint effort between Siemens technology and Volvo Group’s battery-electric trucks and heavy equipment, sets a new standard for environmentally conscious construction practices.

The deconstruction, a meticulous process akin to a highly controlled demolition, represents the inaugural full-scale electric operation of its kind. It serves as compelling evidence that urban development projects can be executed sustainably in the present day, provided there are suitable collaborators and a shared commitment. This remarkable achievement is integral to Siemens’ ambitious 500 million euro technology campus redevelopment in Erlangen, Germany, signifying a critical stride towards fostering sustainable urban transformation and promoting circular construction methodologies.

In a strategic partnership with Metzner Recycling, a specialist in demolition, Volvo CE deployed a comprehensive fleet of electric equipment. These machines were specifically chosen for their ability to perform quiet and precise demolition tasks across the vast 25,000 cubic meter site. Beyond deconstruction, the electric machinery played a crucial role in managing and processing approximately 12,800 tons of construction debris, with an impressive 96% of materials being recycled. This high recycling rate directly supports the transition towards more sustainable circular materials management practices.

Christian Franz, Head of Sustainability at Siemens Real Estate, emphasized their dedication to pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction and demolition. He highlighted the project’s exceptional 96% recycling rate as a testament to their pursuit of excellence in sustainability. Franz further noted that this project exemplifies how collaborative efforts and unwavering determination can create a lasting positive impact and contribute to shaping a more sustainable real estate industry. Additionally, all construction equipment was transported to the site by Volvo Truck’s battery-electric semi-trucks, ensuring zero-emission operations throughout the entire process, from demolition and crushing to materials processing and transport.

The successful execution of this all-electric deconstruction project underscores the potential for a future where urban development is not only efficient but also environmentally responsible. The high recycling rate and the complete elimination of fossil fuels from the operation demonstrate a viable pathway towards reducing the environmental footprint of construction. This collaboration between industrial giants provides a tangible example for other urban centers and construction companies globally, illustrating how innovative technologies and partnerships can drive significant progress in sustainability and circular economy principles.