FYI: The Ram ProMaster is stepping up its game with a new electric version aimed at revolutionizing the delivery industry.
Commercial vehicles underpin the fabric of our daily lives, from extinguishing fires and assisting police officers to transporting linemen and delivering our packages. They make countless stops and cover millions of miles annually, all while ensuring the unseen essentials keep running smoothly.
Ram Professional has been a stalwart in this sector, with its ProMaster van quietly fulfilling multiple roles. You’ve likely seen it around, albeit in different guises—blue for Amazon Prime deliveries or white adorned with USPS stripes, replacing the venerable Grumman LLV. These incarnations of the ProMaster acted as interim solutions, pending the arrival of electric counterparts like the OshKosh NGDV for USPS and Rivian EDV for Amazon.
However, the Ram ProMaster’s journey in the delivery domain is far from over, according to its parent company Stellantis. Recently, at Stellantis’ North American Headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, I had the opportunity to explore the new ProMaster EV. This new iteration aims to transition fleet customers into electrified motoring with a specialized step van body designed specifically for delivery efficiency.
The Rise of the ProMaster EV
Ram Professional is leveraging existing models to bridge market gaps. The American ProMaster is essentially a rebadged Fiat Ducato, adapted for U.S. preferences by swapping European engines and transmissions for the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and automatic gearbox. For 2024, an updated interior and an electric model have been introduced to the U.S. market.
While its European counterparts have had electric versions for some time, the American lineup is only now catching up, starting with the unique step van body style of the 3500 model. Two additional cargo van styles will join the range in 2025.
Key Specs of the ProMaster EV
The electric ProMaster boasts:
- Battery: 110 kWh
- Range: Approximately 162 miles
- Motor: 268 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque
- Payload: 2,780 lbs (delivery van); 3,020 lbs (standard cargo version)
- Cargo Volume: Up to 524 cubic feet
Market comparisons reveal the ProMaster EV’s competitive edge. For instance, it offers slightly more cargo space and a marginally higher payload capacity than Rivian’s EDV Delivery 500, though with less horsepower.
Driving Experience
Driving the ProMaster EV is akin to operating a mobile office. While front-wheel drive and a high roof can make it less stable at high speeds, the low-mounted battery and updated suspension improve handling over its gas-powered counterpart. The motor delivers smooth and quiet acceleration, although its true performance with a full payload remains to be seen.
Pros and Cons
What’s Good?
- Visibility: The driving position offers excellent visibility, comparable to forward-control vans.
- Technology: Features like Uconnect 5, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging enhance the driving experience.
- Payload and Cargo: Impressive cargo and payload capacities make it a formidable competitor in the EV van sector.
What’s Not So Good?
- Driving Dynamics: Despite improvements, stability and handling can be challenging due to the front-wheel-drive system.
- Driver Comfort: The upward-facing steering column and limited seat adjustability can be uncomfortable for taller drivers.
As an EV
In a brief 10-mile evaluation, the ProMaster EV averaged 2.2 miles per kWh, which is respectable for its size. The van also offers selectable one-pedal driving and customizable DC fast charging options, catering to various commercial needs.
Verdict
The ProMaster EV may not have the futuristic appeal of Rivian’s EDV, but it matches or even exceeds its competitors in crucial areas like cargo space and payload capacity. Pricing is also competitive, with the ProMaster starting at $77,995 (plus destination fee) and additional delivery-specific options bringing it to $88,990.
Significantly, the Ram’s extensive dealer network offers a logistical advantage over Rivian, making it a practical choice for fleet customers across the country.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
