The 2024 Ram ProMaster EV marks Ram’s inaugural foray into the electric commercial van market, blending the brand’s established utility with modern electric vehicle technology.
This analysis delves into the ProMaster EV’s specifications, comparing it to both electric and traditional gas-powered commercial vans to assess its position in the evolving landscape of commercial transportation.
Design and Dimensions
Maintaining the functional design ethos of its gas-powered predecessor, the ProMaster EV offers a familiar yet efficient exterior tailored for urban deliveries and commercial use. The van’s dimensions are consistent with the traditional ProMaster, ensuring compatibility with existing up-fitting solutions.
With a high roof option, a 159-inch wheelbase, and a cargo width of 56 inches between the wheel wells, the ProMaster EV provides a spacious and adaptable cargo area. The van’s boxy structure maximizes interior space, making it an optimal choice for businesses requiring ample storage for goods, tools, or equipment.
The front-wheel-drive layout, a defining characteristic of the ProMaster lineup, allows for a lower cargo floor, improving ease of access for loading and unloading.
Equip your Promaster EV with a rolling rear door for added convenience.
Electrification is not a hinderance to cargo space for the ProMaster EV.
Choose from a standard sliding door or a pocket door on the side of your ProMaster EV.
Performance and Powertrain
Equipped with a 200-kW electric drive motor, the ProMaster EV delivers 268 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. This front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable traction, beneficial for urban driving conditions. The van’s performance metrics position it competitively within the electric commercial van segment.
When comparing the ProMaster EV’s powertrain to its gasoline-powered counterpart, the standard ProMaster is equipped with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, delivering 276 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. While the gasoline model offers slightly more horsepower, the ProMaster EV benefits from instant torque delivery, a key advantage of electric powertrains that enhances acceleration and load-carrying performance.
Range and Charging
The ProMaster EV is equipped with a 110-kWh lithium-ion battery, providing an estimated range of up to 162 miles on the Delivery Van model and 164 miles on the Cargo Van, based on a half payload. Charging options include Level 3 DC fast charging with capacities of 50 kW, 85 kW, 125 kW, and 150 kW, enabling a 20% to 80% charge in under 55 minutes.
For context, the Ford E-Transit offers a range of approximately 108 miles, while the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter provides up to 96 miles per charge. These figures position the ProMaster EV ahead of many electric competitors in terms of range, making it a more practical option for businesses requiring extended driving distances.
Despite the improvements in range, traditional gas-powered vans, such as the standard ProMaster, offer significantly longer driving ranges, limited primarily by fuel tank capacity and fuel efficiency. However, with the increasing availability of fast-charging stations, the practicality of electric commercial vans is steadily improving.
Interior and Technology
The ProMaster EV’s interior is designed with functionality and modern technology in mind. It features a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation. The digital gauge cluster provides real-time battery and range information, ensuring drivers can monitor their energy consumption effectively.
Additionally, the ProMaster EV comes with an array of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. These features enhance safety and convenience, making the van an attractive option for fleet operators prioritizing driver comfort and security.
Electrification doesn’t hinder cabin space in the Ram ProMaster EV.
The infotainment screen provides relevant information to the driver regarding the ProMaster EV’s operation.
Despite the platform switch from gas to electric, expect a similar driving experience in the ProMaster EV.
Pricing and Availability
The 2024 Ram ProMaster EV has a starting price of $79,990, including a $1,995 destination charge. This positions it competitively within the electric commercial van market, with the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter starting at $71,886 and the Rivian 500 Delivery van at $83,500.
While electric vans often come with higher initial costs compared to their gasoline counterparts, incentives such as tax credits and lower operating expenses help offset these costs. The reduced maintenance requirements of EVs—due to fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes—provide long-term savings for fleet owners.
The Future of Electric Commercial Vans
The shift toward electrification in the commercial vehicle sector is gaining momentum, driven by stricter emissions regulations and advancements in battery technology. The Ram ProMaster EV is part of a broader trend where automakers are prioritizing electric solutions to meet sustainability goals and reduce total cost of ownership for businesses.
While range limitations and charging infrastructure remain key challenges, ongoing investments in battery technology and charging networks are expected to bridge the gap between electric and traditional fuel-powered vans in the coming years.
This comes as Ram, Dodge, and Jeep continue to develop fully-electric platforms for non-commercial vehicles like the Ram 1500 REV, Dodge Charger Daytona, and Jeep Wagoneer S models.
In Conclusion
The 2024 Ram ProMaster EV represents a significant step in the electrification of commercial vehicles, offering a blend of performance, cargo capacity, and modern technology. While it faces competition from both electric and traditional gas-powered vans, its specifications and features position it as a compelling option for businesses seeking to transition to electric fleets.
For fleet operators looking to reduce operating costs and emissions, the ProMaster EV provides a practical and sustainable solution without compromising on utility. As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, Ram’s entry into the market marks a milestone in the future of commercial transportation.
The all-new 2025
Ram Promaster EV
