Summary
- Stellantis introduced the STLA Frame platform for the Ram 1500 Ramcharger, supporting various powertrains
- The platform is highly customizable and ready for adventure with up to 690 miles of range in the EREV
- Stellantis is facing challenges in the EV industry and hopes the new platform will improve its performance
- The platform has heavy-duty capabilities, towing capacity of 14,000 pounds, and an 800-volt architecture for fast charging
- Jeep EVs may also use the STLA Frame platform, with upcoming models like the Wagoneer and Renegade planned
Article
Introduction
Stellantis, the European conglomerate behind brands like Jeep, Dodge, and Ram, has unveiled the STLA Frame platform, designed to support a variety of powertrains including electric, hybrid, gas, hydrogen, and EREV for full-size ladder-frame pickup trucks and SUVs. This move comes as Stellantis faces increasing pressure to keep up with the rapidly growing electric vehicle industry, following lay-offs, worker strikes, and dealer dissatisfaction with its business strategies.
STLA Frame Platform Details
The STLA Frame platform, touted as an engineering marvel, is highly configurable and supports vehicles with electric, hybrid, gas, hydrogen, and EREV powertrains. It can accommodate battery sizes ranging between 159-200+ kWh, with a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds and a payload rating of 2,700 pounds. The platform also offers extensive dimensions support, including overall length, width, wheelbase, ground clearance, and maximum tire diameter ranges, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Powertrain Capabilities
Stellantis claims that vehicles utilizing the STLA Frame platform can achieve impressive ranges, with EREVs delivering up to 690 miles and BEVs up to 500 miles. The platform supports both 800-volt architectures for BEVs and 400-volt architectures for EREVs, enabling quick charging capabilities. Both powertrain options will also be capable of bi-directional charging, allowing for power transfer back to the grid, home appliances, or charging other electric vehicles.
Vehicle Applications
The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger is expected to be the first vehicle to utilize the STLA Frame platform, with additional applications for Jeep vehicles anticipated in the future. While specific details on which Jeep models will adopt the platform remain undisclosed, the brand is preparing for a series of new electric models, including the next-generation Wagoneer and potential Wrangler-inspired and Renegade EV variants.
Market Trends and Strategies
The shift towards hybrid and electric powertrains in the automotive industry, coupled with concerns about performance in heavy-duty applications like towing and hauling, has prompted Stellantis to adopt the flexible approach enabled by the STLA Frame platform. With potential changes in consumer incentives under the incoming Trump administration, having a range of powertrain options at hand may prove beneficial for the brand’s future product offerings.
Conclusion
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares expressed pride in the engineering achievements of the STLA Frame platform and the brand’s anticipation of integrating it into upcoming Jeep and Ram vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electrification, Stellantis aims to position itself as a leader in innovative powertrain solutions. Contact the author for more information or insights on the STLA Frame platform and its implications for the automotive market.
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