174hp is actually fine.. didn't our V8 engines in the 1980's come with 133hp? Sure, it took 20 seconds to hit 60 mph, but it would undoubtedly be more than sufficient when it's an emergency.

I agree, hybrids aren't complex. I don't think the hybrid engines are a problem.. in fact, hybrid engines are more reliable than ICE engines while EV motors fare worse than the other two. I have a PowerBoost and it's been a great hybrid.

Maybe the Powerboost is more problematic than the ordinary hybrid motor? I don't know.

 

...why did you quote me and then link an article that directly confirms what I said?

"What we do know is that the new truck will have two electric motors driving the wheels, good for a full 663 horsepower. It will also carry a big V6 engine running on gasoline. However, this engine will solely be used to charge the truck’s large 92 kWh battery, and will not drive the wheels mechanically."

So, did you quote me and then provide the link to back up what I said or am I missing something? The engine doesn't drive the wheels, I agree.

 

I seriously doubt this will get 20mpg.
I suspect engine output will be optimized for maximum efficiency. Maybe it kicks on at low output for the first 300 miles with the truck unloaded. But when towing obviously it will consume more fuel but at least it will be capable.

 

I know we’re off on a tangent with the Ramcharger EV, but from I gather while the Pentastar is rated for 130kw (174hp), it has a peak generating capacity of 190kw (254hp). I suspect the former figure is used to keep the Pentastar in its most efficient rpm to keep the battery replenished, while the peak output is requested when the battery is completely out and you’re requesting all of the beans such as towing up a long incline.

 

Sorry accident on my end. LOL

 

I suppose time will tell. The most interesting thing to me will be the reaction of the market. If this proves to be a success, Ford and GM will have to try and match it.
On the surface it seems like this is the most ideal thing for our current infrastructure capability as again, you can drive it pure EV if you wanted. But can still go the distance if desired.

 

For the record, the 3.6 in the Ram probably makes the HP listed (174hp) because it's running in Atkinson cycle. Kind of like the engine in both of my Toyota hybrids. It may be the "same" engine used in everything else, but it's not exactly the same.

 

I think the 174hp is coming from power generated. But that engine in the Ram produced 305hp.
Regardless, the amount of power it generates will undoubtedly be more than sufficient to keep the truck pulling good as the generator will produce a consistent power output. But the truck always runs on electrical power anyways. So battery charge would slowly deplete when climbing grades but then charge would increase on flats or downhills.
No one drive up hill all the time.

 

For me, the PowerBoost was one of the big things that pushed me to buy a new truck. I've known people with hybrids for a long time - a friend had a beater/commuter Prius with a quarter million miles on it and it was still doing great when it was totaled. A past coworker that I keep in touch with still has an early Highlander Hybrid with similar miles and no issues with the hybrid system. In short, it isn't a new concept and it doesn't scare me. I usually don't keep vehicles long enough to get into big issue anyway - though this time around that may change with the way prices are now.

In this case, if I can get slightly better fuel economy, more power, and some added perks like 20 amp 120v outlets I'm all for it. The price difference was minimal too.

I found a reasonably optioned '23 PowerBoost at a dealer that was willing to sell at invoice. Combined with a $2000 PCO and decent interest rates, I figured it's a better deal than I'll probably see for a while (or without traveling). I considered ordering a 2024 from a dealer that will sell below invoice, but the restricted option combinations on those is frustrating. I pick the new truck up tomorrow.

 

The truck your buying was it special order someone placed or a dealer stock order. Just wondering how some of the trucks have been generally optioned.