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Ram to build a true mid-size pickup in Toledo
Stellantis has confirmed what many in the truck world have been waiting for: Ram will add a mid-size pickup to its lineup, and production will begin in 2028 at the Toledo, Ohio, assembly complex. The announcement comes as part of a sweeping $13 billion U.S. investment that reshapes several North American manufacturing sites.
Why this matters
The mid-size pickup segment has grown steadily since the Dodge/Ram Dakota left production in 2011, with buyers favoring trucks that balance capability, efficiency and daily-drive comfort. By choosing the Toledo plant—the home of the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator—Stellantis signals the new Ram will likely use a traditional body-on-frame architecture aimed squarely at rivals such as the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon and Toyota Tacoma, rather than a car-like unibody design like the Honda Ridgeline or Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Highlights:
- Production start: 2028 at Toledo, Ohio
- Platform: Likely body-on-frame (shared Toledo facility with Gladiator)
- Targets: Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon
Platform, performance and positioning
Although official specs are still under wraps, building the mid-size Ram alongside Wrangler and Gladiator strongly suggests off-road capability and towing are priorities. Expect multiple powertrain options, possibly including a V-6 and towing-focused calibrations. Ram's entry will aim to combine traditional truck capability with the brand’s recent focus on refined interiors and technology.
Ram is positioning itself to win back buyers who left when the Dakota disappeared and to compete across fleets and lifestyle buyers who want genuine pickup capability without stepping up to a full-size truck.
Factory strategy and production timeline
Stellantis initially planned to assemble this model at the shuttered Belvidere, Illinois plant. Instead, Belvidere will reopen in 2027 to produce the new Jeep Cherokee and Compass, while Toledo gets the mid-size Ram. The broader investment also includes a new large internal-combustion and range-extended EV SUV in Warren, Michigan, and a returning Durango assembly in Detroit set for 2029.
"This investment in the U.S.—the single largest in the Company’s history—will drive our growth, strengthen our manufacturing footprint and bring more American jobs," said Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa. The move is part of Filosa’s strategy to correct past missteps and broaden the company’s product mix.
Market context and outlook
Ram is late to re-enter the mid-size pickup market, but entering with a body-on-frame truck built in an experienced plant gives it a fighting chance. Immediate comparisons will focus on capability, towing, off-road trims and value for money. If Stellantis pairs proven powertrains and modern in-cabin tech with competitive pricing, the Ram mid-sizer could shake up the segment.
Quote: "Better late than never," many truck buyers might say — but Stellantis will need to move quickly on specs and pricing to make the 2028 launch count.
Expect more concrete details over the next 18–24 months as prototypes emerge and engineering choices are finalized.
Source: motor1
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