Stellantis has finally confirmed that they will be producing a new mid-size truck model, fulfilling the long-held desire of Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis. While the automaker remains tight-lipped on specifics, this news follows reports of an internal memo from COO Antonio Filosa announcing the production of this new truck at the Belvidere, Illinois, factory.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has previously revealed plans for a mid-size pickup at this plant, though Stellantis had initially declined to confirm these claims. The temporary closure of the Belvidere plant in early 2023 cast a shadow over these future commitments, even threatening a strike last year. However, recent negotiations between the UAW and Stellantis have yielded positive outcomes.
The UAW announced a resolution to grievances regarding the Dodge Durango and the reopening of the Belvidere plant. As part of this agreement, Stellantis has committed to producing the next-generation Durango at its Detroit factory and investing in its Jeep facilities in Ohio. This resolution paves the way for the new mid-size truck's production, slated to commence sometime in 2027.
Kuniskis has been a vocal advocate for a mid-size truck, citing the increasing costs of vehicle ownership, particularly for larger trucks. The discontinuation of the 1500 Classic, which served as a more affordable option for Ram truck buyers, has created a gap in the lineup. This new mid-size truck is poised to fill this void, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to the company's full-size offerings.
While the specifics of this new model remain shrouded in secrecy, its impending arrival is a significant development for Ram. It signals the brand's commitment to expanding its offerings and catering to the evolving needs of truck buyers in a market increasingly focused on fuel efficiency and affordability. The success of this new truck will depend on its ability to effectively compete in the fiercely competitive mid-size truck segment while maintaining the brand's reputation for quality and innovation.