Ram Confirms Mid-Size Pick-Up Production by 2028 – Australian Debut Likely

After years of speculation, Ram Trucks has confirmed its re-entry into the mid-size pick-up market, with a new, smaller ute set for global production in 2028. Ram Trucks Australia has already expressed strong interest in bringing the vehicle to local showrooms, hoping to expand its footprint in a competitive segment dominated by the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and the upcoming Kia Tasman.

A Long-Awaited Comeback

The yet-to-be-named mid-size pick-up marks Ram’s first foray into this segment since the Dodge Dakota was discontinued in 2010. According to Ram Trucks CEO Chris Feuell, this new model will be a "global model" with broad appeal and affordability, but with North American customers prioritized for its initial launch.

Australia, a key market for mid-size utes, is poised to play a significant role in the model’s success.

“A mid-size ute is on our wish list for Ram in Australia. It has been on our radar for years, and we think it would be a good fit for Australia,” said Jeff Barber, Managing Director of Ram Trucks Australia.

Design & Powertrain Options

Ram has not confirmed specific details about the new pick-up’s design or platform, but several possibilities are being considered:

1. STLA Ladder-Frame Chassis: Similar to the Ram 1200 sold in Mexico.
2. Unibody Construction: Inspired by the Ram Rampage (available in South Africa), potentially offering a more compact and car-like driving experience.

This approach echoes Ford’s strategy with the Maverick pick-up, which uses the unibody underpinnings of the Ford Escape SUV. If Ram adopts this path, its new ute could be even smaller than its key rivals.

Powertrain Diversity

With the rise of hybrid models in the US, the new pick-up will reportedly offer multiple powertrain options, catering to a range of customer preferences. While no specifics have been confirmed, hybrid and electric versions are likely to play a prominent role in the lineup.

Manufacturing Challenges

The new mid-size ute will be produced at Ram’s Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant, which has faced a turbulent history.

• In February 2023, the plant was idled indefinitely, resulting in 1200 job losses after it ceased production of the Jeep Cherokee.
• A deal with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union secured plans to retool the factory for smaller pick-up production, but the reopening has been delayed to late 2028.

This delay has raised concerns among workers, with some suggesting that Stellantis might not fulfill its commitment. Other Stellantis plants, including those producing Jeep and Ram vehicles, have also experienced production suspensions and job cuts in 2024.

Ram’s Global Challenges

Ram’s new ute is part of Stellantis' broader strategy to navigate a challenging year. The company faced:

• A 20% drop in global sales in Q3 2024, attributed to a slow European market and excess inventory in the US.
• Production delays for key models, including the electric Ram 1500 REV and Ramcharger, now pushed to 2025.
• CEO Carlos Tavares announced his retirement in 2026 and hinted at the possible closure of underperforming brands within the Stellantis portfolio.

What It Means for Australia

The introduction of a smaller, more affordable Ram pick-up has the potential to transform Ram’s presence in the Australian market. Competing directly with segment heavyweights like the Ranger and HiLux, the new ute could attract buyers seeking versatility, global brand prestige, and innovative powertrain options.

With Ram Trucks Australia signaling strong intent to bring the vehicle Down Under, Australian buyers could have a new contender to consider in 2028.