The 2024 Ram ProMaster EV is designed to cater to the needs of delivery businesses and professionals seeking an electric vehicle solution. With a reported range of 162 miles on a single charge, this vehicle aims to address the daily requirements for deliveries within urban and suburban areas. This range is quite competitive for the electric van segment, indicating that Ram is positioning the ProMaster EV as a practical option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining efficiency in their delivery operations.
The emphasis on a 162-mile range suggests that Ram has focused on optimizing battery efficiency and vehicle performance to suit the stop-and-go nature of delivery tasks, which can be particularly demanding on vehicle range. This range should be sufficient for most daily delivery routes, offering businesses a way to transition to electric vehicles without compromising operational needs.
Moreover, the electric version of the ProMaster is likely to inherit the versatility and functionality of its combustion engine counterparts, known for its spacious cargo areas, customizable configurations, and reliability. The electric model will bring the environmental benefits of zero emissions and potentially offer lower operating costs over time, thanks to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses associated with electric vehicles.
Overall, the 2024 Ram ProMaster EV represents an essential step in evolving commercial vehicles towards sustainability. Its introduction into the market will provide businesses with a viable electric option, helping to accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation solutions in the commercial sector.
The Ram ProMaster EV unveils a significant moment in the evolving landscape of electric delivery vans, setting the stage for a competitive year in 2024. This development highlights the expanding options for businesses and fleet operators looking to transition to electric vehicles (EVs), moving beyond the early days when the Ford E-Transit was virtually the sole contender in this niche outside of those explicitly working with Amazon. The ProMaster EV’s entrance is not just about adding another choice; it represents a broader shift towards electrification in commercial transport, reflecting growing demands for sustainability and efficiency in logistics and delivery services.
The Ram ProMaster EV’s specifications position it as a compelling choice amidst growing competitors such as the BrightDrop Zevo, Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, and Rivian EDV. Its 162-mile city range, from a 110 kWh battery pack to robust power output and substantial cargo capabilities, makes it versatile for various delivery and transportation needs. These specifications suggest that Ram has prioritized a balance between range, power, and utility, catering to the practical demands of fleet operations.
Priced at $79,990 for the Delivery model, the ProMaster EV is positioned at a higher price point than the Ford E-Transit and its gas-powered variant but undercuts some of its electric competitors. This pricing strategy reflects the vehicle’s premium offerings in terms of performance, cargo space, and the additional features that have made the gas-powered ProMaster a favourite among significant delivery services like Amazon and FedEx.
The ProMaster EV’s range of configurations and the decision to maintain many of the gas-powered model’s traits and options indicate Ram’s commitment to providing fleet operators with flexible and familiar solutions that don’t compromise on the benefits of electrification. This approach could be crucial in encouraging more widespread adoption of electric delivery vans, especially among businesses that have long relied on the gas-powered ProMaster for their operations.
Ram’s move to introduce the ProMaster EV, despite having a similar model (the Fiat E-Ducato) available in Europe since 2021, underscores the strategic timing and market readiness for electric commercial vehicles in the United States. As more companies and fleet operators look to reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs, the expanding lineup of electric delivery vans, including the ProMaster EV, offers a promising avenue towards achieving these goals, even if the initial cost of entry is higher than traditional options. This electric delivery van market expansion signals a significant shift towards more sustainable and efficient delivery solutions, reflecting broader trends in vehicle electrification and environmental responsibility.
ProMaster EVolution
The Ram ProMaster EV’s minimal adaptation from its gas-powered version is a significant advantage from a fleet buyer’s perspective. This approach maintains the familiarity and proven design of the vehicle, ensuring a seamless transition for businesses moving towards electrification. The ProMaster’s design origins in the third-generation Fiat Ducato, dating back to 2006, represent a long-standing and well-accepted platform in the commercial vehicle market. This lineage emphasizes the vehicle’s reliability and the effectiveness of its design, which has been adapted across various brands and models in Europe, including those under Toyota, Citroën, Peugeot, Opel, and Vauxhall, reflecting its versatility and widespread acceptance.
The ProMaster’s introduction to the Ram lineup in 2013, replacing the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter at Dodge (then part of DaimlerChrysler), marked a significant shift in Ram’s commercial vehicle strategy. The choice of a front-wheel-drive design for the ProMaster, which continues with the EV variant, sets it apart from its main rivals, the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which offer rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations. This design decision impacts various aspects of the van’s performance, including handling, weight distribution, and potentially the efficiency and space utilization within the vehicle, catering to specific needs and preferences in the commercial van market.
The front-wheel-drive layout, especially for the electric version, where the motor is mounted on the front axle, could offer simplicity, maintenance, and interior cargo space advantages. Electric vehicles (EVs) allow for more flexible design considerations, as they don’t require the same drivetrain components as internal combustion engine vehicles. This can lead to more efficient use of space and potentially lower maintenance costs, critical factors for fleet operators.
The ProMaster EV’s continuity in design and operation with its gas-powered counterpart, combined with the inherent benefits of electric propulsion, presents a compelling case for businesses looking to adopt greener technologies without disrupting their operations. This approach not only facilitates a smoother transition to electric vehicles for current ProMaster users but also positions the ProMaster EV as an attractive option for new customers seeking an efficient, reliable, and familiar vehicle for their fleet, reinforcing the ProMaster’s role in the evolving landscape of commercial transportation.
The Ram ProMaster’s front-wheel-drive design, while potentially limiting its appeal as a versatile “VanLife” option compared to the more widely configurable and often four-wheel-drive Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, offers significant benefits in the realm of commercial delivery vehicles. This design simplifies the vehicle’s construction and is advantageous for upfitters, who are crucial in customizing vans to meet specific commercial needs. Positioning critical components ahead of the driver facilitates easier customization and maximizes cargo space, making the ProMaster an ideal canvas for creating efficient delivery vans.
The history of electrification associated with the ProMaster and its European counterpart, the Fiat Ducato, adds an exciting dimension to its evolution. Fiat’s experimentation with an electric Ducato in the 1990s and the adaptation of the ProMaster into electric versions by third-party converters in the U.S. illustrate the long-standing interest in electric propulsion within this vehicle lineage. The partnership between Fiat and DHL to develop the E-Ducato, which began deliveries in late 2021 with options for 47 and 79-kWh battery packs, underscores the collaborative efforts to refine electric commercial vehicle solutions.
Ram’s current offering with the ProMaster EV represents a significant advancement over these earlier electric adaptations, positioning it competitively among rivals in the electric van market. The decision to provide a substantial 110 kWh battery, ensuring a practical range for delivery purposes, highlights Ram’s commitment to meeting the needs of commercial operators in an evolving marketplace.
Furthermore, the changing landscape of electric commercial vehicles, exemplified by Rivian’s decision to offer its previously Amazon-exclusive EDV to private buyers and BrightDrop’s focus on large commercial fleets, indicates a broadening of the market. These developments reflect the increasing demand for electric vehicles across customer segments, including private buyers looking for sustainable commercial vehicle options.
The ProMaster EV’s entry into this competitive field, with its blend of practical design, customization friendliness, and advanced electric propulsion, positions it as a compelling option for businesses prioritizing efficiency, sustainability, and reliability. As the electric commercial vehicle market continues to expand, offerings like the ProMaster EV are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of delivery and service fleets, balancing the needs for environmental responsibility with the practical demands of daily commercial use.
ProMaster EV Vs. The Rest
The 162-mile range of the Ram ProMaster EV, provided by a 110 kWh battery pack, might initially appear modest, especially when compared to conventional vehicles. However, this range is reasonably practical within the context of electric delivery vans—primarily utilized for short-range, stop-and-go city driving. It aligns well with the operational patterns of these vehicles. In such use cases, electric powertrains offer efficiency gains and reduced operating costs due to lower fuel and maintenance expenses. The fact that these vehicles typically return to a central base each day for recharging further mitigates any potential range anxiety.
When comparing the ProMaster EV’s charging capabilities with its competitors, its ability to charge up to 150 kW is a notable advantage. This capability significantly surpasses the Ford E-Transit and Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, both limited to a maximum of 115 kW, and even the Rivian, which is 100 kW. The flexibility the ProMaster EV offers, with four levels of charging capability, enhances its appeal, especially for fleet operations where minimizing vehicle downtime is crucial. However, the potential cost of accessing these faster charging rates remains a consideration for buyers.
Regarding payload and cargo volume, the ProMaster EV demonstrates strong competitiveness. While payload might be a secondary consideration to cargo volume for many last-mile delivery operations—where the density of goods is relatively low—the ProMaster EV’s leading cargo volume and interior height could be decisive factors for businesses prioritizing space. This aspect, combined with its similar power output to the gas-powered version and the commonality of many parts, underscores the ProMaster EV’s appeal to fleet customers, balancing operational efficiency with the familiarity and reliability of the existing ProMaster design.
Comparatively, while the Mercedes eSprinter and Ford E-Transit offer lower power outputs and the Rivian EDV’s specifications and pricing position it as a premium option, the ProMaster EV’s blend of charging speed, cargo capacity, and power make it a compelling choice for a wide range of commercial applications. The price point of the ProMaster EV, though higher than some competitors, is justified by its capabilities and features, positioning it as a viable choice for businesses looking to invest in sustainable, efficient delivery solutions without compromising on performance or utility.
ProMaster EV Features
The Ram ProMaster EV’s adoption of features from its gas-powered counterpart extends to its infotainment and driver assistance systems, making it a technologically equipped option in the electric commercial van market. By including standard features from the gas version, such as an advanced infotainment system and driver assistance technologies, on the initial Delivery version of the EV, Ram ensures that the transition to electric doesn’t mean a compromise on the technological amenities or safety features that drivers and fleet operators have come to appreciate.
Including energy-saving features like a heated windshield and steering wheel as standard equipment on the Delivery version underscores a thoughtful approach to energy efficiency. These features enhance comfort in colder climates but also contribute to preserving the vehicle’s battery range by reducing the need for extensive cabin heating. Additionally, the ProMaster EV’s integration with Ram Telematics offers a significant advantage for fleet management. This system provides real-time diagnostics and performance data, enabling operators to track and optimize vehicle use for increased efficiency, a critical aspect for maximizing the benefits of electric vehicle adoption in commercial operations.
The availability of Over the Air (OTA) firmware updates, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apps Over the Air (AOTA) further modernize the ProMaster EV, ensuring that the vehicle can receive the latest software improvements without needing a physical service visit. The ability to provide walking directions to a final destination via a smartphone app adds a layer of convenience for delivery personnel, seamlessly integrating the vehicle into the broader logistics workflow.
Safety features in commercial vans have historically lagged behind passenger vehicles, but the ProMaster EV sets a new standard for the segment. Including front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking, backup alarms, forward collision warnings, and other advanced safety systems demonstrates Ram’s commitment to enhancing safety in commercial vehicle operations. While the utility of features like adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist in a delivery van might be debated, they offer additional safety nets that could be beneficial in certain driving conditions. The 360-degree camera system, in particular, is a valuable tool for manoeuvring in tight urban environments, enhancing both safety and convenience.
Overall, the ProMaster EV’s comprehensive feature set, combining advanced technology, energy efficiency, and enhanced safety, positions it as a desirable option for businesses seeking to modernize their fleets with electric vehicles. These features support operational efficiency and driver convenience and align with broader trends toward increased vehicle connectivity, automation, and safety in the commercial vehicle market.
The Ram ProMaster EV’s integration of advanced technology features emphasizes Stellantis’ commitment to providing a modern, user-friendly interface that enhances commercial users’ driving and operational experience. The standard 10.1-inch upgraded infotainment display, running the latest Uconnect 5 software, is a significant upgrade that offers intuitive navigation, over-the-air updates for both firmware and other software components, and a suite of connectivity options. This modern infotainment system aligns the ProMaster EV with consumer expectations for technology integration. It is a more attractive option for businesses looking to provide their drivers with the best tools for their daily tasks.
Including a charging location detector and the “EV Dynamic Trip Prediction” feature further underscores the vehicle’s suitability for commercial operations, particularly in the delivery sector. While it’s true that most commercial vans operate on predetermined routes, where charging infrastructure planning is often managed centrally, these features offer flexibility and reassurance for drivers and fleet operators. They ensure drivers can quickly locate fast charging options in scenarios where deviations from planned routes are necessary or for new routes, minimizing downtime and enhancing route efficiency.
As customers can already order their ProMaster EV Delivery, with expected dealership arrivals in the second quarter, Ram is moving swiftly to meet the demand for electric commercial vehicles. The subsequent release of the less specialized Cargo models in spring and summer indicates a strategic rollout catering to various market needs. Although these vans might not carry the same level of public excitement as consumer-oriented EVs like the Ram 1500 REV and Ram 1500 Ramcharger, their introduction is pivotal for the commercial sector. They represent a significant step towards electrification in commercial fleets, offering businesses a sustainable, efficient, and technologically advanced option for their delivery and transportation needs.
The ProMaster EV’s entry into the market ahead of other high-profile EVs underscores the importance of the commercial vehicle segment in the transition to electric mobility. By focusing on practicality, technology, and sustainability, the ProMaster EV is poised to significantly impact how businesses approach their delivery and logistics operations, setting a new standard for electric commercial vehicles.
