Electric Cars

The European Union's ambitious 2035 mandate, originally perceived as the definitive end for internal combustion engines in new vehicles, is now facing an accelerated re-evaluation. This policy, which stipulated a 100% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions for all new cars and vans sold after 2035, profoundly influenced global automotive manufacturing, compelling companies worldwide to redirect investments towards electric vehicle development. Recognizing the international implications, many car brands specifically tailored their product lines to meet EU standards, making this regulation a de facto global benchmark for environmental compliance in the industry.

However, the initial plan for a formal review in 2026 has been fast-tracked due to persistent lobbying from car manufacturers and several member states. The European Commission will now revisit this critical target before the close of 2025, earlier than anticipated. This shift opens the door for significant modifications to the original policy, driven by factors such as the slower-than-projected expansion of charging infrastructure and fluctuating consumer demand for electric vehicles across various European regions. The forthcoming discussions will delve into potential adjustments, including the possibility of allowing internal combustion vehicles to remain on the market, provided they operate exclusively on carbon-neutral alternatives like biofuels or synthetic e-fuels. Furthermore, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles featuring small gasoline range extenders are also on the table for consideration. Specific attention will also be given to the commercial van sector, where electric models currently constitute only a fraction of total sales.

The automotive industry's response to this impending review is varied. While some manufacturers, such as Volkswagen, support the zero-emission goal but advocate for more time and flexibility, others like BMW and Mercedes express concerns about potential job losses and economic impact resulting from a stringent ban. In contrast, brands like Volvo, Polestar, and Kia remain committed to the original 2035 deadline. Beyond powertrain considerations, the review will also address proposals for decarbonizing corporate fleets, a new regulatory classification for smaller electric vehicles, and strategies to bolster local battery production and critical component manufacturing, while also managing foreign investments, particularly from China. These impending decisions will offer greater clarity on Europe's future automotive direction well before the end of the current decade.

This critical juncture presents an opportunity for the European Union to demonstrate leadership in sustainable transportation while also fostering economic resilience. By carefully considering technological advancements, market realities, and the diverse perspectives of stakeholders, the EU can forge a path that not only achieves ambitious environmental targets but also drives innovation and ensures a fair transition for the automotive industry and its workforce. The focus on carbon-neutral fuels and diverse vehicle technologies showcases a pragmatic approach to environmental stewardship, encouraging ingenuity and collaboration in the global effort toward a greener future.

Stellantis is forging ahead with its plans to re-enter the mid-size truck segment, a move officially confirmed by CEO Antonio Filosa. This highly anticipated vehicle, set to debut in 2027, will mark Ram's return to a category it exited over a decade ago with the discontinuation of the Dakota. Filosa recently offered a glimpse into the truck's development, expressing strong confidence in its design and engineering, positioning it as a formidable competitor in the market.

The announcement from Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa at the Kepler Cheuvreux Autumn Conference follows earlier indications from UAW Vice President Rich Boyer, who two years prior hinted at the Belvidere, Illinois factory's reopening for a new mid-size truck production. Filosa's recent visit to the Detroit design center provided him with a firsthand look at not just conceptual sketches, but also a full-scale clay model of the upcoming pickup. He described the vehicle as \"beautiful\" and \"amazing,\" emphasizing that it boasts \"very good\" technical specifications, though he refrained from disclosing specific details. This strategic return aims to reclaim a significant share in the fiercely competitive mid-size truck market.

The new Ram mid-size truck is expected to be constructed on a versatile body-on-frame platform. This architecture is designed to accommodate a range of powertrain options, including traditional internal combustion engines, advanced plug-in hybrid systems, and fully electric configurations. Notably, the truck will not utilize the STLA Large architecture, which is exclusively reserved for unibody vehicles. Instead, there's speculation that Stellantis might adapt a shortened version of the STLA Frame platform, initially developed for the Ram 1500 Ramcharger and a previously planned electric 1500 model.

The STLA Frame platform, in its standard configuration, supports vehicles with considerable dimensions, ranging from 216 to 234 inches in length and 81.2 to 83.6 inches in width, with wheelbases spanning 123.7 to 145.3 inches. Electric variants built on this platform are projected to offer impressive range capabilities, potentially reaching up to 500 miles on a single charge, or an extended 690 miles with a gasoline range-extender. Furthermore, the platform boasts a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds and a payload rating of 2,700 pounds. While these specifications apply to full-size models, the smaller Ram truck, while robust, is unlikely to match these figures directly.

Regarding the new truck's branding, it is improbable that it will revive the \"Dakota\" moniker. This name is slated for a distinct truck model destined for the South American market next year. To avoid any market confusion, Ram is expected to select a different badge for its U.S.-bound mid-size offering, which will be a larger and entirely separate product. Early reports also suggest a streamlined approach to body styles, with the truck potentially being offered exclusively as a four-door Crew Cab. Pricing is a critical factor for market penetration. To effectively compete with established rivals like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma, Ram will need to adopt an aggressive pricing strategy. Entry-level models are anticipated to start in the low to mid-$30,000 range, positioning them significantly below the $40,700 starting price of the last Ram 1500 Classic sold in the 2024 model year.

Ram's forthcoming mid-size pickup represents a significant strategic initiative for Stellantis, aiming to re-establish its presence in a crucial automotive segment. With a confirmed 2027 launch, advanced platform technology supporting diverse powertrains, and a commitment to competitive pricing, the new truck is poised to challenge existing market leaders. Its anticipated design and technical capabilities underscore Stellantis's ambition to deliver a compelling product that resonates with a broad spectrum of truck buyers.