Some Ram pickups have the throaty clatter of a diesel motor, just like those found in those Big Brother 18-wheelers. Next best is the growl of a big V-8.
But the iconic HEMI motor was eliminated from the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup, apparently part of the company’s obeisance to the green ideology.
But it’s coming back.
A report in the Daily Mail confirms, “The brand’s top boss apologizes for killing the grunting 5.7-liter powerhouse.”
“We own it. We got it wrong. And we’re fixing it,” explained CEO Tim Kuniskis of the Ram brand.
His comments are appearing in ads.
With the thunder of the V-8 in the background, he states, “You hear that? That’s our HEMI. And it’s saying, ‘We’re back.’”
Truck sales are among the most profitable divisions for car makers in America, and Ram for years raked in the cash with its powerful full-size units.
Stellantis, owner of the brand, originally moved to smaller engines to meet emissions standards imposed by various regulations.
“Last year, the company said it would replace the V-8 with a more efficient and powerful V-6 — but the swap also stripped away some of the brand’s signature brashness. Fans hated the move,” the report explained.
In fact, sales slumped 18%, prompting the comeback plan.
Kuniskis said he actually expects the HEMI to represent 25% to 40% of Ram 1500 sales in 2026.
“Data be damned — we raise our flag and let the HEMI ring free again!” he said.
Stellantis also owns Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Opel and Peugeot.