When Stellantis revealed its plan to invest $13 billion in the United States by 2029, it outlined how this significant funding would be allocated to its manufacturing facilities across the country. Among these announcements, the Ram brand stood out with a commitment to expand its lineup beyond pickups and vans.
The automaker confirmed that a new midsize pickup truck will be produced from 2028 at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio the historic home of Jeep since the 1940s. This development will be supported by an investment of nearly $400 million and is expected to create more than 900 jobs at the site.
- Ram will launch a brand-new large SUV by 2028, alongside its new midsize pickup.
- The SUV will share its platform and possibly powertrains with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
- Stellantis’ $13 billion investment plan includes major plant upgrades in Ohio and Michigan.
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Ram’s Large SUV to Share Roots With Jeep Grand Wagoneer
In addition to the midsize pickup rumored to revive the iconic Dakota name Ram is also preparing to enter the SUV segment for the first time in decades. According to Automotive News, Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed that Ram will introduce a large SUV in 2028.
Filosa emphasized that the upcoming SUV and midsize pickup will provide Ram with a “much more comprehensive product range,” giving the brand broader market reach in the United States and beyond.
This announcement aligns with Stellantis’ plan to manufacture an all-new large SUV at the Warren Assembly Plant in Michigan beginning in 2028. While the automaker didn’t initially specify which brand the model would belong to, it mentioned that the SUV will feature both range-extended EV and internal combustion engine (ICE) options.
Jeep and Ram Could Share Platforms and Technologies
The Warren Assembly Plant already produces the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, both recognized as premium large SUVs. With Stellantis investing an additional $100 million to retool the facility, it’s highly probable that the upcoming Ram SUV will share the same architecture as the Grand Wagoneer.
This makes strategic sense, especially since the 2026 Grand Wagoneer recently debuted a range-extended EV powertrain, showing Stellantis’ direction toward electrified large vehicles.
Ram SUV Expected to Use Ram 1500 REV’s Range-Extended System
The forthcoming Ram SUV is expected to borrow the same range-extended EV technology from the Ram 1500 REV. This setup pairs a 3.6-liter V6 engine (which works purely as a generator) with two electric motors and a 92-kWh battery pack, delivering an impressive 647 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque.
Meanwhile, the internal combustion variant of the SUV will likely feature the 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engine, currently used in the Grand Wagoneer, producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque.
Positioning and Market Strategy
While the Jeep Grand Wagoneer caters to the luxury SUV segment, Ram’s upcoming SUV will target a broader audience seeking functionality, capability, and affordability. The new model is expected to rival vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe, providing a rugged yet refined alternative within Stellantis’ portfolio.
Ram’s SUV will likely be positioned as a mainstream, utility-focused sibling to the Grand Wagoneer — balancing everyday practicality with advanced performance features.
Possible Name: The Return of “Ramcharger”
As for its name, Stellantis has yet to confirm what the SUV will be called. However, speculation points toward the revival of the “Ramcharger” nameplate a title once used by Dodge for a full-size SUV produced between 1974 and 1993.
Interestingly, “Ramcharger” was also the name originally assigned to a now-canceled all-electric version of the Ram 1500. Given the nostalgic appeal and brand relevance, this name could make a strong comeback for Ram’s first SUV in decades.
Investment and Production Overview
| Facility | Location | Investment Amount | Expected Output | Jobs Created | Production Start |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toledo Assembly Complex | Ohio | $400 million | Midsize Pickup Truck (Dakota revival) | 900+ | 2028 |
| Warren Assembly Plant | Michigan | $100 million | Large Ram SUV (shared with Jeep Grand Wagoneer) | Not disclosed | 2028 |
Ram’s entry into the SUV market marks a major evolution for the brand, which has long been associated primarily with trucks and vans. The 2028 large SUV will not only expand Ram’s product lineup but also reinforce Stellantis’ growing investment in electrified and hybrid mobility.
With shared engineering expertise from Jeep and cutting-edge hybrid technology from the Ram 1500 REV, this upcoming model could become one of the most versatile and competitive SUVs in its class combining heritage, power, and modern innovation.
