Ram breaks records: Meet the 1st half-ton truck with a 14,000-lb tow rating
For years, towing 14,000 pounds meant stepping up to a three-quarter-ton truck. Not anymore. Ram just rewrote the rulebook, unleashing the first half-ton pickup rated to tow as much as some heavy-duty rigs. The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger blends electric torque with a V6-powered generator, making it the most capable half-ton ever built. And in a world where EV trucks struggle to tow long distances, this one just solved the biggest problem in the segment with unlimited, gas-powered range.
Half-ton truck, heavy-duty numbers
According to Edmunds, the Ramcharger’s 647 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque give it a towing capacity that outperforms some HD trucks—more than a 2024 Chevy Silverado 2500HD with a gas engine. That’s big-league towing power in a truck that still fits in the half-ton segment.
So, what’s the secret? A 91.8-kWh battery powers dual electric motors, delivering instant torque for smooth acceleration, even under load. But when the charge runs low, a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 kicks on as a generator, topping off the battery to keep the truck moving indefinitely. No charging station required. No range anxiety.
The new diesel?
As I previously wrote, range-extended electric vehicles (EREVs) are the new diesels. Much like diesel pickups in the 1980s, they offer more efficiency, more durability, and more work-ready torque than traditional V8s. The Ramcharger is built to tow indefinitely, with a 690-mile total range that makes regular EV pickups look like golf carts.
This truck isn’t just for weekend warriors—it’s built for working folks. The fast-charging capability means job site crews can top off at lunch, while the onboard generator can power tools or even an entire worksite. It’s tougher than a traditional half-ton, yet cheaper to run.
The future of towing
The Ramcharger is fast, efficient, and capable, making it a true game-changer. Car and Driver estimates a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, putting it within striking distance of a Hellcat-powered TRX. And with 14,000 pounds of towing and a 2,625-lb payload, it hauls like a diesel—but without the emissions headaches, DEF fluid, or sky-high fuel costs. If this is the future of half-tons, other automakers better take notes.
