What is eTorque on the Ram 1500?

If you’ve looked at the specs of new RAM pickups in the last few years, you may have come across a term called eTorque and wondered what it means. Although the name gives some indication, we need to look at the system in detail to understand the power and technology involved. Then, we can explain why it has appeared on the RAM truck since the 2019 edition.

What Is eTorque on the RAM 1500?

An eTorque engine contains an electric motor that handles torque delivery, enhancing vehicle performance. This electric motor takes the place of the typical alternator found on a standard engine, giving RAM trucks (and some Jeeps) a partial hybrid system. Basically, instead of a more common hybrid design that assists in overall power generation, an eTorque engine uses a paired electric motor specifically to generate torque.

This kind of focused utilization of electric power is part of the reason why RAM offers the best capability, efficiency, and stability in a full-size pickup. Torque is essential for most trucks, as it gives a longer, heavier vehicle more agility in stop-and-go traffic. Torque is also needed for heavy tasks like pulling cars out of the mud.

With an eTorque vehicle, the electric motor is not meant to help the engine travel further on less fuel. Instead, it is a conventional engine with a motor directing electric power to the torque, not a traditional hybrid or fully-electric system. The electric motor generates electric power through regenerative braking and then applies it to one element of motion: torque delivery.

Where Is the eTorque Electric Motor on a RAM 1500?

The eTorque motor’s position varies depending on which engine you’re looking at. For example, if you have a RAM 1500 pickup with the regular 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces up to 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, the eTorque motor is situated on the front engine and employs liquid cooling. On the other hand, for the optional 5.7-liter V-8 engine that produces up to 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, the eTorque motor sits atop the engine and employs air cooling.

How Much Torque Does eTorque Add to the RAM?

One of the primary purposes of the eTorque motor on a RAM truck’s engine is to provide more torque at low speeds, specifically when the engine is running at less than 2,000 rpm. This will be the primary benefit for most drivers who need a commuting vehicle.

The amount of torque added depends on the engine. For example, the 3.6-liter V-6 engine receives an extra 90 pound-feet of torque from the electric motor and has a total rating of 410 pound-feet. Meanwhile, the 5.7-liter V-8 engine gets 130 pound-feet of additional torque at proper speeds and has a total torque of 650 pound-feet.

There are no real downsides to the eTorque design concept. It is simply a logical step beyond traditional automotive hybrid power systems: take the electric power and direct it wherever the vehicle could most benefit. As a result, there is no loss of performance or power and no compromises over a basic gasoline setup.

How Does the eTorque Motor Work?

An eTorque vehicle employs a regenerative braking system. When you press the brakes in a standard vehicle, energy is wasted through heat into the surroundings around your vehicle. Instead of letting that energy go to waste, the eTorque motor can power electrical systems. This process is called regenerative braking.

When coasting or applying a light brake, like coming to a gradual stop, the RAM truck’s eTorque motor switches to pure regeneration mode, which disables the truck’s traditional disc brakes and applies the regenerative ones. The vehicle is still slowed at the intended rate, but the friction generated is recaptured into energy for the torque output. On hard brakes, such as an urgent stop, the traditional disc brakes are employed, and there is also a middle stage between pure regeneration and pure disc brake stopping. This three-stage system is called blended regeneration.

Blended regenerative braking helps take the stress off the regular brakes, allowing them to last longer. Charging an electric battery or motor simultaneously is usually part of their purpose as well. They are beneficial innovations found in some recent vehicles, and though regenerative braking can feel slightly different than a standard brake pedal, drivers typically find it comfortable after one test drive.

Which RAM Models Come With eTorque?

Among RAM vehicles, the eTorque is available on the RAM 1500 pickup truck only. While the RAM 2500 and RAM 3500 provide more powerful choices under the hood, eTorque engines are unavailable due to their heavy-duty build. However, such models will likely appear in the future.

The RAM 1500 is an incredible truck with enormous power ratings and some of the most stunning luxury and technology features available on the market. From 2019 up to 2022 and onward, the RAM 1500 gets eTorque power generation added to its generous standard equipment package.

Want a Strong Truck? Get the Ram 1500 with eTorque

Different trucks serve different needs, but the RAN 1500 undoubtedly brings enough power. The 2022 edition has towing capacities of 6,120 pounds on the V-6 and 8,280 pounds on the V-8. Payload capacity can get very high, starting at 1,225 pounds on the V-6 and reaching 2,325 pounds on the V-8. Throw in a zero-to-60-mph time of only 6.6 seconds, and the RAM 1500 defies the stereotype of a heavy, slow truck.

RAM has always offered the best combination of features and capability in an attractive high-riding body. Throw in specialized models like the new 2022 BackCountry off-roading edition, and there’s a RAM 1500 for everyone.

Would you like to take a recent RAM 1500 for a test drive and get a feel for the eTorque’s regenerative braking? Let the friendly experts at Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown guide you through the steps. We offer fantastic specials on the latest CDJR vehicles, including the RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, and even the 4500 Chassis Cab. We also offer pre-owned and lease specials, along with a service center for all repair and maintenance needs.

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