The new architecture also supports up to 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) of towing and a 2,700 lbs (1,224 kg) payload
November 20, 2024 at 08:30
- The new platform underpins both the Ram 1500 REV and Ram 1500 Ramcharger.
- Stellantis says STLA Frame supports 159 kWh – 200 kWh battery packs.
- EVs using the platform will be able to travel up to 500 miles (805 km) on a charge.
The latest multi-energy platform from Stellantis has been revealed and offers support for ICE, hybrid, hydrogen, battery-electric, and range extender powertrains. In an automotive industry undergoing generational changes, the flexibility of this architecture is of the utmost importance to the carmaker.
Known as STLA Frame, the platform already underpins the Ram 1500 REV and the Ram 1500 Ramcharger and has been developed specifically for full-size body-on-frame pickup trucks and SUVs. Stellantis says range-extender vehicles using STLA Frame will have up to 690 miles (1,100 km) of range, while BEV models will be good for 500 miles (805 km) per charge. The architecture also supports up to 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) of towing and a payload of 2,700 lbs (1,224 kg).
Read: 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Is An Electric Truck That Actually Makes Sense, Thanks To A V6 Engine
The platform is built from high-strength steel and houses the battery pack within the floor. All models also come with a full-length belly pan to reduce aerodynamic drag, and it supports water fording of up to 24 inches (610 mm), which is important for pickups and SUVs. To achieve its claimed range of up to 500 miles, Stellantis has developed STLA Frame to support liquid-cooled battery packs ranging from 159 kWh to 200 kWh.
Charging speed has also been prioritized. When plugged into a 350 kW DC fast charger, BEV models can add up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes, thanks in part to the advanced 800-volt electrical architecture. Range-extender versions have a 400-volt system supporting 175 kW DC fast charging, or enough to add 50 miles of range in 10 minutes. Another important feature is bi-directional charging, meaning the battery pack can be used to charge another EV, feed electricity back to the grid, or even power a home.
A big pickup or SUV with a big battery pack also needs big power. As such, the platform supports front- and rear-mounted electric motors, each capable of producing up to 335 hp, resulting in 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration times as low as 4.4 seconds.
As evidenced by the Ram 1500 REV and the 1500 Ramcharger, the architecture will be first used by EVs and extended-range vehicles. There’s no word on when ICE, hybrid, and hydrogen versions will hit the market.
“Like STLA Medium and STLA Large, STLA Frame combines an unprecedented range with new levels of capability and performance to offer best-in-class range, payload and towing for our customers who need reliable and powerful trucks and SUVs, to haul their families or power their businesses,” Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares described. “With full EV and extended-range EV tech coming soon, we’re bringing ‘no compromise’ solutions to buyers who may be hesitant on trying their first electric vehicle. We’re proud of this engineering marvel and look forward to seeing it come to life in our upcoming product blitz on Jeep and Ram.”
