Zac Quinn 
Stellantis have so far confirmed that the 1500 REV electric truck would be manufactured in the United States. But beyond that, it remains unclear exactly where the revolutionary electric truck will be built in the United States. Some believe it’ll be produced at the Warren Truck assembly plant; others believe it’ll take over a former Jeep plant in Belvidere, Illinois. We ask “¿por qué no los dos?” (Why not both?).
Ram 1500 REV Assembly Plant: Speculation
The Ram 1500 REV may be produced at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, for several reasons. The facility currently produces the Jeep Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram 1500 Classic. According to Mopar Insiders, the Ram 1500 Classic production is expected to end at Warren after the 2023 model year. The plant is only a few miles from the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, which manufactures the internal combustion engine Ram 1500.
The new Ram 1500 REV shares many components with the current DT trucks and sports a chassis similar to what underpins the WS; Warren Truck seems to be the ideal spot for producing the REV logistically. The STLA Frame is derived from the Ram 1500, so it only makes sense for the truck to be built there over another plant. However, another location would be better suited for the mid-size electric Ram truck that’s on the way, Belvidere, Illinois.
According to Automotive News, the Belvidere plant was abruptly closed earlier this year. It employed over 1,200 people and was used to build the Jeep Cherokee. Since the plant was used only a few months ago, it’s in good shape and could require minimal refurbishment to switch from ICE to EV production, though that could require substantial investment. Illinois wants more automotive manufacturers and related suppliers in the state. It is willing to offer tax breaks which could prove helpful in equipping that factory for producing an electric vehicle.
