In a move that’s set to reshape the American SUV landscape, Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa has confirmed that Ram, the iconic truck brand, is officially developing its first full-size SUV. Scheduled to roll off the production line in 2028, this new model will mark a significant expansion for Ram, which has long been synonymous with rugged pickups and commercial vans. With this announcement, Ram is poised to challenge the dominance of established players in the full-size SUV segment, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and even its corporate cousin, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
A Strategic Expansion Beyond Trucks
Since its separation from Dodge in 2009, Ram has carved out a formidable identity as a truck-first brand, with the Ram 1500 becoming a staple of American roads and job sites. However, as consumer preferences shift toward versatile, family-friendly SUVs, the brand is ready to evolve. Antonio Filosa’s confirmation of the SUV project signals a strategic pivot—one that aligns with Stellantis’ broader vision of platform sharing, electrification, and market expansion.
The new SUV will be built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, the same facility that currently produces the Ram 1500 and Jeep Wagoneer models. This choice of location is no coincidence; it allows Ram to leverage existing infrastructure and expertise while streamlining production costs.
What We Know So Far
While official details remain under wraps, several key insights have emerged:
- Platform Sharing: The SUV will be built on the same body-on-frame architecture as the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. This suggests a robust, off-road-capable chassis with the potential for luxury-level refinement.
- Powertrain Options: The model is expected to offer both internal combustion engines (ICE) and range-extended electric (REEV) variants. This dual-powertrain strategy reflects Stellantis’ commitment to electrification without alienating traditional truck and SUV buyers.
- Nameplate Revival: Industry insiders speculate that the SUV may revive the Ramcharger name—a nod to the brand’s heritage. The original Ramcharger, a two-door SUV produced from the 1970s through the early 1990s, was a cult favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
- Design Language: Expect the new SUV to carry Ram’s bold, muscular design DNA, with a commanding front grille, aggressive stance, and premium interior appointments that rival luxury competitors.
Why Now?
The timing of this announcement is no accident. The full-size SUV segment remains one of the most profitable in the U.S. automotive market. Consumers continue to demand vehicles that offer space, power, and versatility—qualities that Ram already delivers in its trucks. By entering the SUV space, Ram can tap into a broader customer base, including families and adventure-seekers who want the capability of a truck with the comfort and practicality of an SUV.
Moreover, the move aligns with Stellantis’ $13 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing operations, aimed at modernizing plants and accelerating the transition to electrified vehicles. The upcoming Ram SUV will likely benefit from these investments, incorporating the latest in connectivity, safety, and powertrain technology.
Competition and Market Positioning
Ram’s entry into the SUV segment will pit it against some of the most established names in the industry. The Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Toyota Sequoia dominate the full-size SUV market, while the Jeep Grand Wagoneer offers a more luxurious alternative. Ram’s challenge will be to carve out a unique identity that blends its rugged truck heritage with the comfort and versatility expected from a modern SUV.
Given Ram’s reputation for innovation—evident in the success of the Ram 1500 and the upcoming Ram 1500 REV electric truck—there’s reason to believe the brand can deliver a compelling product. The new SUV could also serve as a halo vehicle, showcasing Ram’s design and engineering capabilities while boosting brand equity.
What to Expect
While we await official images and specs, here’s what enthusiasts and analysts are predicting:
- Three-row seating with flexible cargo configurations
- Advanced infotainment and driver-assist technologies
- Towing capacity on par with Ram’s light-duty trucks
- Off-road variants with specialized suspension and drivetrain tuning
- Luxury trims to compete with high-end SUVs from Lincoln and Cadillac
Final Thoughts
The confirmation of a Ram SUV by Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s evolution. It’s a bold move that not only expands Ram’s portfolio but also signals a broader shift in Stellantis’ strategy—one that embraces electrification, platform efficiency, and market diversification.
As the 2028 launch approaches, anticipation will only grow. For now, one thing is clear: Ram is ready to take on the SUV world with the same confidence and capability that made its trucks legendary. The road ahead looks exciting, and Ram’s first SUV might just be the next big thing in American motoring.
Leave a Reply