The automotive industry is undergoing one of the most transformative shifts in its history. At the center of this evolution is the electrification of vehicles, driven by consumer demand, regulatory pressure, and technological innovation. Two names that stand out in this narrative are NextStar Energy, Canada’s first large-scale battery manufacturing facility, and Ram, Stellantis’ iconic truck brand. Together, they represent the convergence of cutting-edge battery technology and rugged automotive heritage.
NextStar Energy: Canada’s Battery Powerhouse
Founded in 2022 as a joint venture between Stellantis and LG Energy Solution (LGES), NextStar Energy was envisioned as a cornerstone of North America’s EV supply chain. Located in Windsor, Ontario, the facility has already attracted more than CAD $5 billion in investment, positioning Canada as a serious player in the global battery race. The plant is expected to create over 2,500 jobs, reinforcing both economic growth and technological leadership in the region.
In February 2026, a major shift occurred: Stellantis sold its 49% stake, giving LGES full ownership of NextStar Energy. This strategic move allows LGES to streamline operations and focus on scaling production, while Stellantis continues to benefit as a customer for advanced battery cells.
Ram’s Electrification Journey
Ram, long celebrated for its powerful trucks and loyal customer base, is embracing electrification with bold ambition. The Ram 1500 REV, unveiled as the brand’s first fully electric pickup, promises to deliver uncompromising performance while integrating NextStar’s battery technology. With towing capacity, payload strength, and range designed to rival or exceed traditional combustion models, Ram is positioning itself as a leader in the EV truck segment.
For Ram, electrification is not just about compliance—it’s about redefining what a truck can be. By leveraging NextStar’s batteries, Ram ensures that its vehicles offer durability, efficiency, and cutting-edge energy density. This partnership is crucial in meeting consumer expectations for long-range capability and fast charging, especially in a segment where reliability and endurance are paramount.
Why This Partnership Matters
The synergy between NextStar Energy and Ram highlights several key themes shaping the automotive future:
- Supply Chain Security: By sourcing batteries from a North American facility, Stellantis reduces reliance on overseas suppliers, ensuring resilience against geopolitical and logistical disruptions.
- Innovation at Scale: NextStar’s advanced battery cells enable Ram to deliver trucks that balance power with sustainability, appealing to both traditional truck buyers and eco-conscious consumers.
- Economic Impact: The Windsor facility strengthens Canada’s role in the EV ecosystem, while Ram’s electrified lineup supports Stellantis’ broader decarbonization goals.
- Brand Evolution: Ram’s embrace of electrification demonstrates how legacy brands can adapt without losing their identity. Trucks remain tough, but now they’re also clean and future-ready.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the promise, hurdles remain. EV adoption in the truck segment faces skepticism from buyers accustomed to diesel and gasoline power. Infrastructure, particularly charging stations capable of handling heavy-duty vehicles, must expand rapidly. Additionally, battery costs and raw material sourcing continue to pose challenges for profitability and scalability.
Yet, with NextStar’s production ramping up and Ram’s electrified models entering the market, these challenges are being met head-on. The partnership represents not just a technological shift, but a cultural one—convincing truck owners that electric can be just as rugged, reliable, and powerful.
Looking Forward
The full ownership of NextStar Energy by LGES marks a pivotal moment in the EV landscape. For Ram, it ensures access to world-class batteries that will power its trucks into the next era. Together, they embody the fusion of innovation and tradition—where cutting-edge energy solutions meet the enduring spirit of the pickup truck.
As electrification accelerates, the collaboration between NextStar Energy and Ram will likely serve as a blueprint for how automakers and energy companies can align to drive sustainable mobility. The road ahead may be challenging, but it is undeniably electrifying.
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