3 Minutes
Ram enters the SUV market
Ram, long known for its full-size pickups, is preparing its first-ever passenger SUV, due in 2028. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed the model will be built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, joining a lineup that will also welcome two SRT-badged Ram trucks next year. The move is part of Stellantis's plan to give Ram a 'much more comprehensive product range.'
Where it will be built and investment details
Production will take place alongside the Jeep Grand Wagoneer at Warren. Stellantis plans nearly $100 million to retool the plant for the new SUV, as part of a broader $13 billion investment in U.S. operations over the next four years. The decision underlines Stellantis's strategy to strengthen domestic manufacturing while expanding electrified offerings.
Built on truck DNA
Reports indicate the new SUV will share the Ram 1500 platform, giving it a trucklike footprint and towing capability. Early speculation suggests the model could be called the Ram Charger, invoking a namesake with performance connotations. Stellantis is expected to offer both traditional gasoline powertrains and an extended-range electric variant, reflecting the industry shift toward hybrid and electrified SUVs.
SRT performance returns
Performance fans get a clear win: Filosa told analysts that two new SRT models are on the way. One is widely believed to be a revived Ram 1500 TRX, likely retaining a 6.2-liter HEMI V8 and more than 700 horsepower for extreme off-road performance. The second SRT model remains unconfirmed, with rumors pointing to a street-oriented performance truck inspired by the Ram 1500 'The Dude' concept.
Market positioning and rivals
Ram's large SUV will go head-to-head with segment stalwarts like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Jeep Grand Wagoneer. By adding a full-size SUV plus a rumored midsize pickup — potentially reviving the Dakota nameplate — Ram aims to expand beyond its pickup-only identity and attract new buyers without losing core truck customers.
Highlights:
- Launch year: 2028
- Assembly: Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan
- Platform: Likely Ram 1500-based
- Powertrains: Gasoline and extended-range electric expected
- Performance: SRT TRX return with 6.2L HEMI, 700+ hp expected
With proven truck DNA, electrified options, and renewed SRT performance, Ram's first SUV could reshape the brand's future and broaden its reach across the competitive full-size SUV market.
Source: autoevolution
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