Ram is giving traditional V8 fans exactly what they have been asking for. For the 2027 model year, the American truckmaker will remove the eTorque mild hybrid system from its 5.7 liter HEMI V8, bringing the engine back to a simpler, fully conventional setup.
Until now, every Ram 1500 fitted with the 5.7 liter HEMI came standard with eTorque, a 48 volt mild hybrid system that used a belt driven motor generator to assist the engine. Ram says the decision to drop the system reflects customer demand for a more straightforward mechanical package without the added complexity of hybrid hardware.
What Changes for the 5.7 Liter HEMI
The transition will begin at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant with the start of 2027 model year production. Both versions are expected to be built for a short period before Ram switches completely to the non hybrid engine.
Despite the removal of eTorque, performance figures will remain unchanged. The naturally aspirated 5.7 liter HEMI V8 will continue to produce 395 horsepower and 556 Nm of torque.
Ram will also retain its Multi Displacement System, better known as MDS. This technology shuts down four cylinders under light loads to help reduce fuel consumption.
The biggest mechanical changes involve the removal of the 48 volt battery, the belt driven motor generator, and the automatic stop start system. As a result, the V8 will continue running while the truck is stationary instead of shutting down at traffic lights, delivering the more traditional driving experience many HEMI buyers prefer.
Ram’s 2027 Engine Lineup Offers More Choice
The move adds even more variety to Ram’s 2027 powertrain lineup, which is shaping up to offer something for almost every type of truck buyer.
The entry level 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 will remain available for customers focused on daily use and efficiency. Buyers looking for classic V8 character will be able to choose the 5.7 liter HEMI without any hybrid assistance.
Ram will also continue offering its Hurricane twin turbo inline six engines for drivers who want stronger modern performance, while high performance models such as the TRX and Rumble Bee will rely on a supercharged 6.2 liter HEMI V8 producing as much as 777 horsepower.
Key Details
The change applies to rear wheel drive and four wheel drive Ram trucks equipped with the 5.7 liter HEMI V8.
Ram is removing the eTorque 48 volt mild hybrid system, the belt driven motor generator, and the automatic stop start function.
Power remains unchanged at 395 horsepower, while torque stays at 556 Nm.
The MDS cylinder deactivation system will remain in place to help improve efficiency under light driving conditions.
The transition will begin gradually during production of the 2027 model year trucks.
ArabGT’s Take
At ArabGT, we see this as a smart move that speaks directly to traditional American pickup fans in the Gulf and around the world. Many V8 buyers value mechanical simplicity, easier maintenance, proven reliability, and the uninterrupted sound of a naturally aspirated engine more than the modest efficiency gains of a mild hybrid system.
Giving customers the option of a pure 5.7 liter HEMI V8 could make the Ram 1500 even more appealing in a segment where character, sound, and long term dependability still matter just as much as technology.
Do you think Ram made the right decision by removing eTorque from the HEMI V8, or would you rather keep the fuel saving benefits of the mild hybrid system?
