Expanding its footprint in the cargo delivery sector, Ram is introducing a battery-electric version of its ProMaster van. As this market continues to grow and diversify, the addition of another option from a well-established automaker provides consumers with more choices.
Currently offered only in a delivery configuration, we took a test drive around Ram’s headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan. This ProMaster EV is equipped with a single electric drive module delivering 268 horsepower to the front wheels, powered by a substantial 110-kWh battery pack.
Ram claims the ProMaster EV can achieve a range of 162 miles while carrying half of its 3,020-pound payload capacity, which amounts to 1,510 pounds. This range estimate assumes starting with a full cargo load and returning empty.
During our test drive with no cargo onboard, we navigated the Ram facility, mimicking delivery conditions. As expected from an electric vehicle, the ProMaster offers instant power and accelerates smoothly. However, unlike passenger vehicles, this van does not fully isolate external noise, though the presence of cargo might mitigate some of this noise.
The ProMaster EV’s driving dynamics are not thrilling but are manageable; the steering is light, visibility is good, and braking is smooth and easily controlled. Inside, it features a 10.1-inch touchscreen media system and a 7-inch digital driver display, running Ram’s Uconnect system.
One remarkable drawback during testing was the touchscreen interface. Ram has integrated regenerative braking controls within the screen, and our test model lacked the necessary software to access these controls. In a commercial setting, fleet owners might prefer limiting driver control over regenerative braking to avoid affecting range and causing unexpected downtime.
On the pricing front, the ProMaster EV is listed at $79,990, including destination charges. Businesses might negotiate better deals based on volume, but this price point places it higher than competitors like the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter and Ford E-Transit, though it offers greater payload capacity and power.