The 2025 RAM Charger is a plug-in hybrid truck, not a fully electric one

RAM introduced the Charger as a mid-size pickup truck that runs on both a gas engine and an electric motor. You can plug it in to charge the battery, but it also has a traditional fuel tank. This design means the truck can run on electric power alone for shorter trips, then switch to gas for longer distances or when the battery runs low.

The Charger sits between RAM's fully electric REV truck and its traditional gas-powered pickups. It's built on the same platform as the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, which has been sold since 2021 with a similar plug-in hybrid setup. RAM positioned it as an option for buyers who want electric capability without the range anxiety that comes with a fully battery-powered vehicle.

The truck comes in multiple trim levels and configurations. Standard features vary by trim, but all versions include the dual powertrain system. RAM has not released a final price, but early estimates place it in the mid-$50,000 range before any federal tax credits or state incentives.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2025 RAM Charger uses a plug-in hybrid system with both a gas engine and electric motor, allowing it to run on battery power alone for shorter trips.
  • You can charge the battery at home using a standard outlet or a dedicated charger, or rely on the gas engine when charging is not available.
  • Federal tax credits up to $7,500 may be available for plug-in hybrid trucks, though the final amount depends on where the vehicle is assembled and which parts are sourced domestically.
  • The Charger's electric-only range is expected to be around 30 to 50 miles per charge, making it practical for daily commutes but not for long-distance travel without gas.
  • Maintenance costs for plug-in hybrids are typically higher than gas trucks because you have both engine and battery systems to service.

How the plug-in hybrid powertrain works

The Charger has a gas engine, an electric motor, a rechargeable battery, and a transmission that switches between them. When you start the truck with a full battery charge, it runs on electric power first. Once the battery reaches a set level or you demand more power than the motor can provide, the gas engine kicks in automatically.

You control when the truck charges by plugging it in at home or at a public charging station. RAM has not yet published the exact battery capacity, but based on the Wrangler 4xe's design, the Charger's battery is likely in the 17 to 20 kilowatt-hour range. That translates to roughly 30 to 50 miles of electric-only driving before the gas engine takes over.

Unlike a fully electric truck, you never have to charge the Charger to drive it. If the battery is empty, the gas engine runs the whole trip. This removes the planning burden of finding charging stations for long drives, but it also means you're burning fuel on days when you don't plug in.

Charging options and home installation

You can charge the Charger using three methods: a standard 120-volt household outlet, a dedicated 240-volt home charger, or a public Level 2 charging station. Charging from a standard outlet takes the longest—typically 12 to 24 hours for a full battery. A 240-volt home charger cuts that to 4 to 8 hours, depending on the charger's power rating.

Installing a 240-volt charger at home usually costs between $500 and $2,500, including the charger unit and electrical work. Some utility companies and state programs offer rebates that cover part of this cost. You'll need to check with your local electrician and utility to see what's available in your area.

Public charging networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint have Level 2 stations in many areas. Charging at a public station typically costs $1 to $3 per hour, though some networks charge by the kilowatt-hour instead. If you have a long commute or frequently take road trips, public charging access matters, but for daily use most owners rely on home charging.

Federal tax credits and state incentives

Plug-in hybrid trucks may may have access to for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 under current rules, though the final amount depends on where the vehicle is built and how many parts come from the United States. RAM manufactures the Charger in Mexico, which affects the credit calculation. The IRS updates these rules regularly, so the credit available in 2025 may differ from what was offered in 2024.

To receive the full credit, you must have a tax liability large enough to use it. If your tax bill is smaller than the credit, you can only claim what you owe. Some states offer additional rebates or tax credits for plug-in hybrid vehicles, ranging from $500 to $5,000. Check your state's environmental or energy office website to see what's available where you live.

The credit is not a rebate you receive at the dealership—it's a tax benefit you claim when you file your return. Some dealers offer financing or lease programs that account for the credit, but you should verify the exact terms before signing.

Real-world fuel economy and electric range

RAM has not released official EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2025 Charger yet. Based on the Wrangler 4xe, which achieves around 20 miles per gallon combined and 30 to 50 miles of electric range, the Charger will likely fall in a similar range, though the larger truck body and heavier payload capacity may reduce efficiency slightly.

Your actual fuel economy depends heavily on how often you charge. If you charge daily and drive mostly short trips, you'll use very little gas. If you rarely charge and rely on the gas engine, your fuel economy will be closer to a traditional truck—typically 18 to 22 miles per gallon. Most owners fall somewhere in between.

The truck's towing and payload capacity have not been fully detailed, but RAM has indicated the Charger will handle typical mid-size truck duties. Towing and hauling reduce electric range and fuel economy, just as they do on gas trucks.

Maintenance and long-term ownership costs

Plug-in hybrids require maintenance on both the gas engine and the electric system. You'll still need oil changes, air filter replacements, and transmission service like any gas truck. You'll also need periodic battery health checks and may eventually face battery replacement, though most manufacturers warranty the battery for 8 to 10 years or 100,000 miles.

Brake wear is typically lower on plug-in hybrids than on gas trucks because the electric motor does much of the slowing through regenerative braking. This can extend brake pad life by 30 to 50 percent. Tire wear depends on your driving habits and weight distribution, not on the powertrain type.

Insurance rates for plug-in hybrids are usually similar to comparable gas trucks, though some insurers charge slightly more because repairs to the electric system can be expensive. Get quotes from multiple insurers before buying to understand your actual costs.

Comparing the Charger to other mid-size trucks

The 2025 RAM Charger competes directly with the Ford F-150 PowerBoost (a gas-electric hybrid), the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, and the fully electric Ford F-150 Lightning. The key difference is that the Charger is a plug-in hybrid, meaning you can charge it, while the Ford and Chevrolet hybrids are conventional hybrids that charge only through braking and coasting.

Plug-in hybrids offer more electric-only driving than conventional hybrids but less range than fully electric trucks. If you have a short commute and can charge at home, a plug-in hybrid like the Charger may save you more on fuel than a conventional hybrid. If you take frequent long trips without charging infrastructure, a gas truck or conventional hybrid may be more practical. If you rarely drive and want zero emissions, a fully electric truck like the F-150 Lightning is the choice, though it costs more and requires more planning for long drives.

RAM has not announced pricing for the Charger relative to these competitors, but mid-size plug-in hybrids typically cost $5,000 to $10,000 more than comparable gas versions and $10,000 to $15,000 less than fully electric trucks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow a trailer with the 2025 RAM Charger?

RAM has indicated the Charger will have towing capacity, though exact numbers have not been released. Based on the mid-size truck class, expect towing capacity in the 5,000 to 7,000 pound range. Towing reduces electric range significantly and increases fuel consumption, so you'll rely more on the gas engine when hauling.

What happens if I run out of battery charge while driving?

The gas engine starts automatically when the battery reaches a low level. You won't be stranded. The truck will continue running on gas alone, just like a traditional pickup. Your fuel economy will be lower than if you had charged, but you can drive normally until you reach a gas station.

Is the 2025 RAM Charger available in four-wheel drive?

RAM has not confirmed the final drivetrain options, but based on the Wrangler 4xe platform, four-wheel drive is likely available. Four-wheel drive typically adds weight and reduces electric range by 5 to 10 percent compared to rear-wheel drive, but it improves traction in snow and off-road conditions.

How long does it take to charge the battery at a public charging station?

A Level 2 public charger typically adds 15 to 25 miles of range per hour, so a full charge from empty takes 4 to 8 hours depending on the charger's power output. DC fast chargers are rare for plug-in hybrids because the batteries are smaller than those in fully electric vehicles, making fast charging less practical.

Will the federal tax credit still be available when the 2025 Charger goes on sale?

The credit is currently law through 2032, but Congress can change it. The amount and may be able to access rules may shift. Check the IRS website or your tax professional closer to purchase time to confirm what credit applies to the specific truck you're considering.