2027 Arrivals: Ram’s Highly Anticipated Midsize Truck Confirmed for Production

American Manufacturing Gets a Boost: Stellantis to Build Mid-Size Pickup in US

As the new administration in the United States places a renewed emphasis on American manufacturing, it seems the wheels are already in motion. According to a recent memo obtained by Automotive News via Crain’s Chicago Business, Stellantis has confirmed plans to produce a new mid-size pickup truck at its idled plant in Belvidere, Illinois.

This means a new Ram pickup is likely on the horizon to rival the likes of the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and more. Moreover, the move will bring back 1,500 United Auto Workers-represented employees to work, with production set to begin in 2027.

The news follows Stellantis’ Chairman John Elkann meeting with President Trump ahead of the recent inauguration. You can find the full memo on Automotive News, but the key takeaways are:

• A new mid-size pickup will be built in Belvidere, bringing back 1,500 UAW employees.
• The next-gen Dodge Durango will be produced at the Detroit Assembly Complex.
• Stellantis will invest in the Toledo, Ohio plant, where the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator are made.
• Additional investments will be made to the facilities in Kokomo, Indiana, to produce the GME-T4 Evo, Stellantis’ next-generation four-cylinder engine primarily found in entry-level Jeeps and Alfa Romeos.

The Belvidere Assembly Plant, where Ram mid-size trucks have been built in the past, was idled in February 2023 to renovate and prepare for electric truck production and a nearby battery plant. However, with EV demand underperforming and the exit of CEO Carlos Tavares, as well as an unpredictable political environment, those plans have changed.

Ram’s Hemi Revival and the Way Forward

Just last week, news broke that Ram is canceling the electric 1500 REV’s long-range trim, and the brand’s new CEO has expressed an interest in reviving the Hemi V8 engine. This news is likely to have significant implications for our understanding of Ram’s plans in the coming years.

What Does This Mean for the US?

The confirmation of Stellantis’ plan to build a new mid-size pickup in Belvidere means that Ram will finally have a presence in the US market, providing a much-needed boost to American manufacturing and jobs. This is especially significant considering the rumors of an upcoming Ram Rampage compact pickup, which was spotted testing in Colorado. With Stellantis’ decision to bring back production to Belvidere, it’s all but certain that this mid-size truck will make its way to US shores.

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