RAM ProMaster EV: Powering Green Deliveries
As the demand for sustainable and efficient transportation solutions continues to rise, Ram is stepping up with the introduction of its battery-electric version of the ProMaster van. With a focus on the rapidly expanding cargo delivery market, this new entry from a legacy automaker offers a compelling option for businesses seeking to modernize their fleets while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Performance and Powertrain
At the heart of the 2024 RAM ProMaster EV is an electric drive module that delivers 268 horsepower to the front axle, making it a formidable contender in the electric van segment. This power is supplied by a robust 110-kWh battery pack, ensuring that the ProMaster EV has the muscle needed to handle demanding delivery routes. With an estimated range of 162 miles while carrying half of its 3,020-pound payload capacity (approximately 1,510 pounds), this van is designed to meet the needs of businesses that require reliable and efficient transportation.
During a test drive at the company's headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, the ProMaster EV showcased its capabilities with immediate power delivery and smooth acceleration, a hallmark of battery-electric vehicles. The van effortlessly reached highway speeds, making it clear that the ProMaster EV is more than capable of keeping up with the pace of modern delivery demands.
Driving Experience
The driving experience in the ProMaster EV is both practical and straightforward. While it may not offer the excitement of a passenger car, it provides a comfortable and easy-to-handle ride, which is crucial for drivers who spend long hours on the road. The steering is light, and the sight lines are clear, making it easy to navigate through tight city streets and crowded delivery zones. The braking system is responsive and easy to modulate, ensuring that the van can stop safely even when fully loaded.
One of the standout features of the ProMaster EV is its 10.1-inch touchscreen media system, which comes standard along with a 7-inch digital driver display. The touchscreen runs Ram's Uconnect system, providing access to a range of vehicle functions and entertainment options. However, during testing, the touchscreen revealed some early-build issues, particularly with the integration of the regenerative braking controller. Unlike other electric vehicles, Ram has opted to include the regenerative braking controls within the touchscreen interface. While this might not be a concern for most users, it could pose a challenge for fleet managers who want to maintain consistent vehicle performance across their fleets.
Technology and Connectivity
The ProMaster EV is equipped with advanced technology to support both drivers and fleet managers. The van's software can be updated over the air, allowing Ram to address any early-build issues and enhance vehicle performance over time. Additionally, Ram is rolling out software solutions to help fleet managers monitor and control each vehicle's functions, optimizing the ProMaster EV for specific use cases and improving overall efficiency.
Despite the challenges with the touchscreen, the ProMaster EV offers a solid foundation for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles. Its combination of power, range, and advanced technology makes it a compelling choice for companies that prioritize sustainability without sacrificing performance.
Pricing and Competition
The 2024 RAM ProMaster EV comes with a starting price of $79,990, including destination charges. While this price point places it above competitors like the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter and the Ford E-Transit, the ProMaster EV justifies its cost with a higher payload capacity and greater power output. Businesses looking to add the ProMaster EV to their fleets may be able to negotiate volume discounts with their local Ram dealers, further sweetening the deal.
In a market where efficiency, reliability, and sustainability are key, the 2024 RAM ProMaster EV stands out as a strong contender. Whether you're delivering packages, plumbing fixtures, or bread, this electric van is designed to meet the needs of modern businesses while paving the way for a greener future.
