Stellantis, the giant automotive company, is betting big on extending the range of both its hybrid and all-electric vehicles (EVs).
Last month, the company, which owns the Jeep, Dodge and Ram brands in the U.S., invested nearly $30 million in an advanced wind tunnel at its research center in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The aim is to examine the air flow around a vehicle's wheels and tires in order to further optimize electric vehicles and increase their range.
And now Stellantis is launching a new platform called STLA Frame, designed for large trucks and SUVs. The platform is designed to provide a range of up to 690 miles for extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) and 500 miles for battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
“With full electric vehicles and extended range electric vehicles soon available, we are offering uncompromising solutions for buyers who may be hesitant to try out their first electric vehicle,” Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said in a statement. “We are proud of this engineering marvel and look forward to bringing it to life in our upcoming product testing for Jeep and Ram.”
The new Ram 1500 Ramcharger from Stellantis, which is expected to go on sale in early 2025, already uses the new platform.
A number of manufacturers are increasingly relying on electric vehicles with longer ranges.
Companies like Scout Motors, Hyundai and Ford have all announced plans to launch their own versions in the near future.
EREVs are powered by an electric motor. They also have a smaller combustion engine that is used to charge the traction battery.
According to the company, vehicles launching on Stellantis' new platform are also designed to transport or tow heavy loads of up to 14,000 pounds over longer distances without sacrificing range. They can also withstand water depths of up to 24 inches, making them ready for demanding environments.
The battery-powered electric vehicles will feature 800-volt architecture, allowing drivers to achieve 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes, Stellantis says.
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